Meet your new favorite veggie side dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! These crispy Air Fryer Zucchini slices deliver the perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping a tender, juicy center. With only 16 calories per serving and packed with vitamins A and C, this nutritious recipe transforms garden-fresh zucchini into an irresistible snack or side. Whether you’re a health-conscious cook or simply love quick, delicious vegetables, this foolproof method will become your go-to recipe.
Ingredients Needed
- Fresh Zucchini: 3 cups, perfect for a healthy side dish
- Oil Spray: Optional, but helps achieve a golden exterior
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation: Give your zucchini a thorough rinse and trim off both ends. Cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Loading: Transfer the cut zucchini pieces into your air fryer basket. For extra crispiness, consider a light coating of oil spray.
- Air Frying: Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 12-15 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Final Touch: Your zucchini is ready when it reaches a beautiful golden color. Serve right away while it’s hot and crispy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini
Want super crispy zucchini? Cut your pieces the same size (about 1-inch cubes work great!) and don’t overcrowd the basket. A light spray of oil helps achieve that golden-brown exterior, but it’s totally up to you. Give that basket a good shake halfway through cooking – it’s like giving your veggies a little dance party while making sure they cook evenly!
Quick & Easy Variations
Love trying new flavors? Your air fryer zucchini can be a blank canvas! Try:
- A sprinkle of parmesan cheese in the last 2 minutes
- Italian seasoning and garlic powder before cooking
- A dash of red pepper flakes for some heat
- Lemon zest and fresh herbs after cooking
Serving Ideas
This zucchini makes such a yummy side dish! Serve it hot from the air fryer alongside grilled chicken or fish. It’s also amazing tossed into pasta or added to a grain bowl. My favorite way? Adding it to a fresh salad for some warm, crispy contrast. If you’re feeding kids, try serving it with a small bowl of ranch dip – they might just ask for seconds!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though we rarely do!), pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just toss them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F – they’ll crisp right back up! Just keep in mind that zucchini can get a bit softer after storing, but they’ll still taste great in salads or warm dishes.
Air Fryer Zucchini
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 3 cups zucchini
- spray oil optional
Instructions
- Wash zucchini and cut off ends.
- Dice zucchini into bite-sized pieces.
- Put zucchini into air fryer basket. You can spray with oil before cooking if desired.
- Cook zucchini in the air fryer for about 12 to 15 minutes at 400 degrees F. Shake basket at least once during cooking to reduce sticking.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
