Description
This Crispy Zucchini recipe uses an air fryer to create perfectly golden and crunchy zucchini slices coated in a flavorful parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, making a healthy and delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Breadcrumb Mixture
- 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 and Coating
- 2 medium-sized zucchini (each 7 ounces)
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons half and half
Instructions
- Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly and set aside.
- Slice zucchini: Slice off the ends of the zucchini and discard. Cut the zucchini into ⅛-inch round slices. For thicker slices, note that cooking time will need to be adjusted accordingly.
- Make coating mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and half and half until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Coat zucchini slices: Dip each zucchini slice first into the egg and half and half mixture, then thoroughly coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Lay each breaded slice onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat for all slices.
- Prepare air fryer: Remove the air fryer basket and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure it is ready for cooking.
- Air fry zucchini: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Generously spray the tops of the slices with non-stick cooking spray to help them crisp. Cook for 10 minutes at 400°F. If slices are thicker than ⅛-inch, add extra cooking time as needed. The zucchini can be cooked in batches to avoid overcrowding. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- For a thinner crust, use fine panko breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer thicker zucchini slices, increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes and check for crispness.
- Non-stick cooking spray helps achieve a perfectly crispy texture without excess oil.
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled depending on the air fryer basket size.
- Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor and helps with browning; make sure it is finely grated for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
