Description
This Crispy Zucchini recipe uses an air fryer to create perfectly crunchy zucchini slices coated in a flavorful panko breadcrumb and parmesan crust. It’s a quick, healthy side dish or snack that’s easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Breading
- 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 (about 7 ounces each)
- 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 the ingredients evenly. Set this mixture aside for coating later.
- Slice the Zucchini: Trim the ends off the zucchini and discard. Slice each zucchini into ⅛-inch thick rounds. If you prefer thicker slices, note that you’ll need to adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and half and half until fully incorporated, creating a smooth egg wash.
- Coat the Zucchini: Dip each zucchini slice first into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the breaded slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process with all the slices.
- Prepare the Air Fryer: Remove the air fryer basket and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Air Fry the Zucchini: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket. Spray the tops generously with non-stick cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Cook for 10 minutes at 400°F. If your slices are thicker, increase the cooking time as needed. It may be necessary to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Serve: Remove the crispy zucchini from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray the zucchini slices with more cooking spray halfway through cooking.
- If you don’t have half and half, you can substitute with whole milk or milk of your choice.
- Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to your taste; adding garlic powder or smoked paprika can add extra flavor.
- Make sure to arrange zucchini in a single layer to ensure even crisping; cook in batches if necessary.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
