Description
This Air Fryer Zucchini recipe offers a quick and healthy way to enjoy tender, lightly browned zucchini using simple seasonings and a splash of oil. Perfect as a nutritious side dish, this recipe enhances zucchini’s natural flavors with garlic, herbs, and a hint of paprika, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a crispy yet tender texture in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 to 1 ¼ lbs. medium zucchini (about 3 medium-sized zucchini)
Seasonings & Oil
- 1 Tbsp. oil (olive or avocado)
- ¾ tsp. salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp. garlic powder
- ¼ tsp. dried basil
- ¼ tsp. dried oregano
- ¼ tsp. paprika
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat a 6-quart air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for at least 3 minutes to ensure even cooking temperature.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters lengthwise again. Finally, slice into ½-inch pieces to ensure uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Season the Zucchini: Place the zucchini pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive or avocado oil. Sprinkle on salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, and paprika. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all pieces with the seasoning and oil.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Spread the seasoned zucchini pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to promote even air circulation and browning.
- Air Fry the Zucchini: Cook the zucchini at 380°F for 9 to 10 minutes until they become lightly browned and tender. Halfway through cooking, toss the basket contents gently to ensure all sides cook evenly.
- Serve: Immediately transfer the cooked zucchini to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and enjoy this flavorful and healthy side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor and higher smoke point.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- For added crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh touch but can be omitted if not available.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer briefly to retain crispness.
