Easy Zucchini Parmesan Air Fryer Recipe – A Healthy and Crispy

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dish to satisfy your cravings, this Zucchini Parmesan Air Fryer Recipe is the perfect choice! Packed with flavor, low in calories, and incredibly easy to make, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, parties, or as a guilt-free snack. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that golden, crispy texture without the need for excessive oil, making it a lighter alternative to traditional frying methods. Whether you’re a zucchini lover or someone trying to sneak more veggies into your diet, this recipe is sure to win you over.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 220mg

This nutritious dish offers a balanced combination of protein from the Parmesan cheese and fiber from the zucchini, making it a great addition to any meal plan.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 12 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Course: Appetizer, Snack, or Side Dish
• Servings: 4

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls for breading
• Cutting board and knife
• Tongs
• Grater (for fresh Parmesan)

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Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis (sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini
   • Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
   • Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds and set aside.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
   • In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Zucchini Slices
   • Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, ensuring both sides are coated.
   • Next, press the slice into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.
   • Place the breaded slices on a plate or tray.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
5. Arrange the Zucchini in the Air Fryer
   • Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
   • Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping for even cooking.
   • Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
6. Air Fry the Zucchini
   • Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • The zucchini is done when it turns golden brown and crispy.
7. Rest and Serve
   • Remove the zucchini slices from the air fryer and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
   • Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce or a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Parmesan

1. Choose Firm Zucchinis: Opt for zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes. Softer zucchinis might release excess moisture during cooking, making them less crispy.
2. Dry the Slices Thoroughly: Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels before breading to ensure the coating adheres well.
3. Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
4. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or swap Italian seasoning for dried oregano or basil.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Zucchini Parmesan?

Air fryers are game-changers in the kitchen, offering the crispy results of frying without the unhealthy amounts of oil. This method locks in the natural flavor and nutrients of the zucchini while reducing calories and fat content. Plus, it’s faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient than traditional ovens or stovetops.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Snack: Pair with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or your favorite dip for a satisfying snack.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or pasta for a balanced meal.
• As a Party Appetizer: Arrange on a platter with a variety of dips for an eye-catching appetizer.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
2. Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) and dairy-free Parmesan cheese.
3. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.

Conclusion

This Zucchini Parmesan Air Fryer Recipe is a versatile and healthy dish that’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, the crispy coating and tender zucchini inside make every bite irresistible. Plus, the ease of preparation and quick cook time make it an excellent choice for busy lifestyles. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition!

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Ashley Doyle

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.