Air Fryer Zucchini Coins Recipe: A Crispy, Healthy Snack
Air fryer zucchini coins recipe are a quick, healthy, and delicious snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. To prepare, slice zucchini into thin, coin-shaped pieces and coat them in a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Dip the zucchini slices in beaten egg before dredging them in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a crispy coating. Arrange the coated coins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. These zucchini coins are a guilt-free alternative to deep-fried snacks, offering a crunchy exterior and tender interior with significantly less oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this recipe is a simple way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful treat!
Air Fryer Zucchini Coins Recipe: A Crispy, Healthy Snack
Zucchini coins cooked in an air fryer are a perfect combination of crispy texture, delicious flavor, and health benefits. These bite-sized snacks are ideal for anyone looking for a quick and guilt-free appetizer, side dish, or snack. The air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, making this recipe a healthier alternative to deep-fried zucchini. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or dips, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Air Fryer Zucchini Coins Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or Fork
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut them into 1/4-inch thick coins.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini coin into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange the Zucchini: Place the breaded zucchini coins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
- Air Fry: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Tips
- Uniform Slicing: Ensure the zucchini slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
- Breadcrumb Variations: For extra flavor, use seasoned breadcrumbs or add different herbs and spices.
- Crispier Coins: For an extra crispy texture, spray the zucchini coins with a bit more olive oil before cooking.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
- Healthy and Light: Minimal oil is required for a golden, crispy coating.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: A great way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 cup of air-fried zucchini coins
- Calories: ~120
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg (depends on the seasoning)
This nutrient breakdown is for a batch coated in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Adjust based on your choice of coatings and dips.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick coins
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs (or use egg whites for fewer calories)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
- Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and slice the zucchini into coins about 1/4-inch thick. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. - Set Up Coating Station:
In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. - Coat the Zucchini:
Dip each zucchini coin into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. - Arrange and Cook:
Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Place the zucchini coins in a single layer, leaving space between them for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness. - Cook:
Air fry the zucchini coins at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done. - Serve:
Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a yogurt-based dip.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even crispiness.
- Add Spice: For a kick, mix in cayenne pepper or smoked paprika with the breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.