Description
This Crispy Zucchini recipe uses an air fryer to create perfectly golden and crunchy zucchini slices coated in a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings. It’s a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to frying, delivering a delicious snack or side dish in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Breading 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 Wet Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized zucchini (each weighing 7 ounces)
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons half and half
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly. Set aside.
- Slice the Zucchini: Trim the ends off the zucchini and discard. Slice each zucchini into ⅛-inch round slices for optimal crispiness. For thicker slices, note that cooking time will need to be increased accordingly.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and the half and half until fully blended. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the zucchini slices.
- Bread the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it thoroughly through the breadcrumb mixture. Lay the breaded slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process for all slices.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Remove the air fryer basket and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Zucchini: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Generously spray the tops of the slices with non-stick cooking spray to promote browning. Cook for 10 minutes. For thicker slices, slightly increase the cooking time. If necessary, cook the zucchini in batches to maintain a crispy texture.
- Serve Hot: Once the zucchini slices are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can double-dip the zucchini slices by repeating the egg wash and breadcrumb steps.
- If you do not have half and half, you can substitute with milk or cream, but half and half provides the best balance.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust the thickness of zucchini slices and cooking time according to your preference, but thinner slices will be crispier and cook faster.
- You can sprinkle additional parmesan cheese over the zucchini before serving for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
