Crispy Zucchini Balls Air Fryer Recipe: Healthy Appetizer in 30 Minutes

Zucchini balls made in an air fryer are a delightful, healthy, and easy-to-make snack or appetizer. Packed with fresh zucchini, herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these crispy-on-the-outside and tender-on-the-inside bites are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or planning a light meal, this Zucchini Balls Air Fryer Recipe is a great option. Using the air fryer cuts down on oil, making these zucchini balls a guilt-free treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making zucchini balls in an air fryer, including detailed instructions, prep and cooking times, nutritional information, and tips for achieving the best results.

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Prep Time, Active Time, Resting Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time (Cooking): 10-12 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

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Cuisines

• Italian-inspired

Course

• Appetizer
• Snack

Servings

• 4 servings (approximately 12 zucchini balls)

Calories

• Approximately 100 calories per serving

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Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer
2. Mixing bowls
3. Grater
4. Cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Baking sheet (optional, for resting balls before air frying)

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Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Olive oil spray

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg

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Instructions to Make Zucchini Balls in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Wash and grate the zucchinis using a box grater.
2. Place the grated zucchini in the center of a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel.
3. Squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini. This step is crucial to ensure the zucchini balls hold their shape and don’t turn soggy.

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Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using).
2. Crack in the egg and mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.

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Step 3: Form the Zucchini Balls

1. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, take about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into balls.
2. Place the balls on a plate or baking sheet.

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Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

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Step 5: Air Fry the Zucchini Balls

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
2. Place the zucchini balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Spray the tops of the zucchini balls with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
4. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The zucchini balls are done when they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the zucchini balls from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes.
2. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt.

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Tips for Perfect Zucchini Balls

1. Squeeze Well: Removing as much water as possible from the grated zucchini is key to achieving a firm texture.
2. Customize the Herbs: Feel free to swap parsley with basil, dill, or cilantro based on your flavor preferences.
3. Cheese Options: While Parmesan adds a nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or shredded mozzarella for variety.
4. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
5. Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free Parmesan.

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Why Make Zucchini Balls in the Air Fryer?

The air fryer is a fantastic tool for making zucchini balls because it gives them a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying. This method uses minimal oil, making it a healthier option while still delivering great texture and flavor. Plus, the air fryer cooks the zucchini balls quickly and evenly, saving you time in the kitchen.