This air fryer zucchini recipe is a quick and easy, 15-minute, side dish that's nutritious and delicious with practically any meal!
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Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Ingredients
- How To Season Air Fryer Zucchini
- How to Air Fry Zucchini
- FAQs
- Pro Recipe Tips
- What to serve with Air Fried Zucchini
- Storage Instructions
- More Simple Air Fryer Side Dishes
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
- Air Fryer Polenta Fries
- Sticky Sesame Cauliflower (Air-Fried)
- Quick Air Fryer Zucchini (Coins + Spears)
Why You'll Love This Recipe
As much as I love zucchini chips and air fryer breaded zucchini fries, this air fryer zucchini is a great variation, plus such a simple and healthy side dish.
Simply slice the zucchini into coins or spears/fries, toss it with oil and seasonings, and air fry until lightly golden. With the right combination of seasonings and garnishes, you can tailor this simple yet delicious, healthy side to suit practically any meal.
Love simple green sides? Try my air fryer asparagus, maple-glazed brussels sprouts, or Instant Pot green beans.
The Ingredients
Refer to the recipe card for the full list of ingredients, substitutes, and quantities.
How To Season Air Fryer Zucchini
This simple air-fried zucchini recipe is customizable and perfect to pair with almost any meal.
- Spices: Onion powder, cumin, chili powder or cayenne pepper, turmeric, etc.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, oregano, Italian seasoning, parsley.
- Nutritional yeast: To add umami, cheese flavor (like vegan parmesan).
- Seasoning blends: Curry powder or garam masala, fajita/taco seasoning, lemon pepper, garlic and herb seasoning, Ranch seasoning, etc.
- Lime or Lemon zest: For citrusy flavor.
- Vegan cheese: Add nutritional yeast before air frying for umami, nutty, cheesy flavor, or sprinkle with vegan parmesan to serve.
- Garnish: I.e., like lemon juice, hot maple, balsamic glaze, tahini sauce, walnut pesto, etc., Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, basil, green onion), and/or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, breadcrumbs, or sesame seeds.
How to Air Fry Zucchini
Step 1: First, trim and chop the zucchini into ½-inch rounds/ half-moons or 2-inch spears. Toss the zucchini and oil in a bowl, then add the seasonings and toss again for even distribution.
Step 2: Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with a little space between. Air fry the zucchini at 400°F/200°C for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender and lightly browned. Enjoy!
FAQs
No. Leaving it on helps the zucchini hold its shape and adds nutrients.
Sure! Zucchini is low-calorie yet nutrient-dense, loaded with antioxidants (like vitamin C), fiber, and several vitamins and minerals. Combined with just a little heart-healthy oil, it makes a nutritious side.
Yes, though they'll be softer. Air fry zucchini slices/chunks from frozen, tossed with oil and seasonings, at 400°F/200°C for 12-15 minutes.
Pro Recipe Tips
- Cut the zucchini evenly: To ensure uniform cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding: Spread it in an even layer, leaving space for airflow to avoid steaming.
- Don't omit the oil: You don't need much, but it'll help produce crispier edges and the best overall texture.
- Avoid overcooking: Or it will become soggy.
- Enjoy immediately: The texture is best right out of the air fryer.
What to serve with Air Fried Zucchini
Fried zucchini in an air fryer is a versatile side that pairs with:
- Tacos/burritos (black bean tacos or butternut squash bean burritos)
- Casseroles
- Pasta (garlic and lemon pasta, pesto rice, or vegan stuffed shells)
- Beyond Meat meatloaf
- 'Eggs' (like a vegan frittata, Just Egg quiche, or Just Egg omelette)
- Your favorite protein (I like it with crispy air fryer tofu or tempeh)
Storage Instructions
Store: Air-fried zucchini sticks/slices are best enjoyed immediately while crisp. However, leftovers will store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freeze: I don't recommend it, as they'll become soggy. However, they're technically freezable in an airtight container for 3-4 months.
Reheat: In an air-fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F/190°C, to help restore crispiness.
More Simple Air Fryer Side Dishes
If you tried this quick air fryer zucchini recipe or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Thanks!
Quick Air Fryer Zucchini (Coins + Spears)
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini sliced into ½-inch rounds or spears
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchini with the olive oil until evenly coated.
- Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using. Toss again to distribute the seasoning.
- Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry at 400 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Notes
- Avoid overcrowding: Spread it in an even layer, leaving space for airflow to avoid steaming.
- Don't omit the oil: You don't need much, but it'll help produce crispier edges and the best overall texture.
- Avoid overcooking: Or it will become soggy.
- Enjoy immediately: The texture is best right out of the air fryer.
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