Description
This Crispy Zucchini recipe uses an air fryer to create a crunchy, flavorful snack or side dish with a light coating of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Perfectly seasoned and air fried to golden perfection, these zucchini slices are a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions, making them an easy and delicious way to enjoy this summer vegetable.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Breading Mix
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Zucchini & Egg Wash
- 2 medium-sized zucchini (each zucchini weighed 7 ounces)
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons half and half
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients evenly, then set aside.
- Slice the Zucchini: Trim off the ends of the zucchini and discard them. Slice the zucchini into ⅛-inch thick rounds. For thicker slices, be prepared to increase cooking time accordingly.
- Make the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and half and half until fully blended.
- Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Then immediately dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. Place the breaded zucchini rounds onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with all slices.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Remove the air fryer basket and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and preheat it for 3 minutes to ensure consistent cooking.
- Air Fry the Zucchini: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Generously spray the coated zucchini slices with non-stick cooking spray on top to promote crispiness. Cook for 10 minutes at 400°F. If the zucchini slices are thicker than ⅛-inch, add extra cooking time as necessary. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Serve hot.
Notes
- For an extra crispy finish, make sure to spray both the air fryer basket and the zucchini slices generously with non-stick cooking spray.
- If you prefer thicker zucchini slices, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
- Using half and half in the egg wash adds a bit of richness for better adhesion of the coating, but you can substitute with milk if desired.
- To keep the zucchini slices crispy after cooking, place them on a wire rack rather than stacking or placing directly on a flat surface.
- This recipe works well with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
