Air Fried Parmesan Zucchini
Are you looking for a delicious and healthy snack or side dish? Look no further than air fried parmesan zucchini! With its crispy exterior, melt-in-your-mouth interior, and savory parmesan cheese coating, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a fan of zucchini or not, this recipe is sure to change your mind. Get ready to discover the perfect balance of flavors and textures with this easy-to-make air fried parmesan zucchini recipe.
Air Fried Parmesan Zucchini Overview
In this recipe, we take fresh zucchini slices and coat them with a mixture of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a blend of herbs and spices. Then, instead of deep-frying, we use an air fryer to achieve the same crispy texture and golden brown color without the excess oil. The result is a guilt-free and low-carb alternative to traditional fried zucchini that doesn’t compromise on taste.
To make air fried parmesan zucchini, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
– Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchini is the star of this dish. Choose medium-sized zucchini with smooth skin for the best results.
– Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the zucchini.
– Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs or homemade breadcrumbs provide the perfect crunchy coating.
– Herbs and Spices: A blend of dried basil, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder enhances the overall taste of the zucchini.
– Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps the coating adhere to the zucchini and promotes even browning.
Variations and Substitutions:
– For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
– If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
– Instead of parmesan cheese, you can try using Romano cheese or a mixture of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Time & Servings:
This air fried parmesan zucchini recipe takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. It yields 4 servings, making it ideal for a small gathering or a quick and satisfying snack. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group of friends, this recipe can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the zucchini slices, so keep an eye on them to ensure they reach the perfect crispiness.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchini
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick slices.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Dip each zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchini slices.
7. Air fry the zucchini for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve the air fried parmesan zucchini immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are.
Nutritional Information:
– Calories: 120
– Total Fat: 6g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Cholesterol: 13mg
– Sodium: 310mg
– Total Carbohydrate: 10g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 3g
– Protein: 8g
Cooking Time & Servings:
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Servings: 4
Equipment:
– Air fryer
– Cutting board
– Knife
– Shallow bowl
– Spatula or tongs
Serving Suggestions:
To elevate your air fried parmesan zucchini, consider serving them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy and flavorful tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy zucchini, enhancing the overall taste experience. Additionally, you can garnish the zucchini with fresh basil leaves or grated parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance. For a complete meal, serve the air fried parmesan zucchini alongside grilled chicken, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light main course.
Variation Ideas:
– Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the zucchini slices before air frying to brighten up the flavors.
– Mix grated Parmesan cheese with grated mozzarella cheese to create a gooey and cheesy coating.
– Incorporate Italian seasoning or dried herbs of your choice to give the zucchini a different flavor profile.
– Experiment with different types of vegetables, such as yellow squash or eggplant, for a colorful and nutritious variation.
Substitutions:
– Instead of zucchini, you can use other summer squash varieties like pattypan squash or crookneck squash.
– Swap regular breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative.
– If you’re lactose intolerant, try using nutritional yeast as a dairy-free substitute for parmesan cheese.
Storage:
To maintain the freshness and flavor of air fried parmesan zucchini, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the zucchini slices back in the air fryer for a few minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid freezing the cooked zucchini, as it may become soggy upon thawing.
Tips:
– Make sure to evenly coat the zucchini slices with the breadcrumb mixture for consistent crunchiness.
– For extra crispy zucchini, spray a light layer of cooking spray over the coated slices before air frying.
– If your air fryer has a smaller capacity, you may need to cook the zucchini in batches to avoid overcrowding.
– Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of the zucchini according to your taste preferences.
Notes:
– Air fried parmesan zucchini pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or tzatziki sauce.
– For a more indulgent version, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the zucchini slices during the last few minutes of air frying and let it melt.
– This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences. For a vegan alternative, substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
– Don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation. Arrange the air fried parmesan zucchini slices in a spiral pattern or stack them like a tower for an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash can be used interchangeably with zucchini in this recipe. The cooking time and temperature remain the same.
2. Can I make air fried parmesan zucchini in the oven?
Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy this recipe by baking the zucchini in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
3. Can I add spices like paprika or cumin to the breadcrumb mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to add your own personal touch to the dish. Just keep in mind the flavors that pair well with parmesan cheese and zucchini.
4. Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs if you prefer. However, homemade breadcrumbs often provide a fresher and more flavorful result.
Category: Appetizers, Side Dishes, Vegetarian
Season: Suitable for all seasons
Personal Thought
Air fried parmesan zucchini is a delightful dish that never fails to impress. The combination of crispy zucchini, savory parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs and spices creates a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to deep-fried zucchini, making it perfect for those watching their calorie intake. The air fryer provides the ideal cooking method to achieve the perfect balance of crispy texture and tender interior. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, air fried parmesan zucchini is a versatile dish that will satisfy your cravings and leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
So why not give this recipe a try? Follow the simple steps, add your own personal touch, and enjoy the delightful flavors of fried parmesan zucchini with none of the guilt. Get creative with your serving suggestions, explore different variations, and don’t forget to share your experience with us. We would love to hear your feedback and see how you make this dish your own! Prepare to fall in love with this mouthwatering rendition of zucchini that will have you coming back for more. Happy cooking!
“The secret ingredient is always love.” – Unknown
