Air fryer zucchini is a quick and easy recipe where zucchini is sliced, seasoned, and air fried to crispy perfection in just 12 minutes. With a crispy exterior and tender center, it’s a side dish that’s as quick and easy as it is delicious. Plus, no need to crank up the oven—your air fryer gets the job done in minutes. Let’s get into how to make air fryer zucchini that’s perfectly seasoned and cooked every time.
Why This Recipe Is Fantastic
This recipe is low in calories, gluten-free, and perfect for a healthy snack or side dish.- Healthy and Low-Calorie: Zucchini is naturally low in calories and packed with nutrients.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, including prep time.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to sneak veggies into your family’s meals.
Jump to:
- Why This Recipe Is Fantastic
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini
- Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini
- Variations
- Dipping Sauces
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQ
- Storage and Reheating
- Pairings and Related Recipes
- Nutritional Information
- Equipment Used and Kitchen Essentials
- Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 zucchini, sliced into ½-inch half-moons
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Chicken Bouillon Powder (Optional)
See recipe card for the quantities.
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini
Here’s a quick summary of the steps to make air fryer zucchini:
- Slice zucchini into ½-inch thick half-moons.
- Coat with oil.
- Season with your favorite spices.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Cut zucchini into ½-inch thick half-moons for even cooking. This size ensures they cook quickly without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Coat with Oil
Place the zucchini in a large bowl and drizzle with oil. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Season the Zucchini
In a small bowl, mix sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the zucchini and toss to coat.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange zucchini in a single layer to ensure even crispiness.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: This helps achieve the perfect texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Choose firm zucchini for the best results.
Variations
- Parmesan Zucchini: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Zucchini: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Herbed Zucchini: Replace thyme with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip smoked paprika for fewer carbs.
Dipping Sauces
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Marinara sauce
- Tzatziki
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Add to a bowl of rice or quinoa for a hearty lunch.
- Serve alongside air fryer wings or sliders for a game-day spread.
- Enjoy as a healthy snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
FAQ
It takes about 10–12 minutes at 400°F.
Yes, preheating helps achieve a crispy texture.
Yes, but it may need a few extra minutes to cook and might not be as crispy.
Cook zucchini at 400°F for the best results.
Overcrowding the basket or not preheating the air fryer can result in less crispy zucchini.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Place leftover zucchini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Pairings and Related Recipes
- Instant Pot Garlic Herb Potatoes
- Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer
- Instant Pot Rice Pilaf
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 50 per serving
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
Enjoy this Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe! I hope you love how quick, easy, and delicious this air fryer zucchini is. It’s perfect as a snack, side, or meal addition. If you try it, leave a comment or rating below—I’d love to hear what you think! Don’t forget to mention me @StuffMattyCooks or use the hashtag #StuffMattyCooks when you share your creation. For more recipes like this, be sure to explore my other air fryer dishes.
Equipment Used and Kitchen Essentials
I always share the equipment I use to make my recipes, along with my favorite kitchen essentials that help make cooking easier and deliver better results. If you choose to purchase through these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting me.
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 6-Quart Large Air Fryer
Air Fryer Liners – 100pcs Premium Perforated Parchment Paper (Easy Cleanup)
HENCKELS Forged Premio Hollow Edge Santoku Knife, 7-inch
FLYBYJING Sichuan Chili Crisp
Organic Zucchini Squash
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients
- 3 Zucchini sliced into 1/2 inch half moons
- 1 Tablespoon Avocado oil or Olive Oil
- 1/2 tsp. Sea Salt
- 1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp. Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tsp. Dried Thyme
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer to 400 degrees.
- Cut zucchini into 1/2inch thick half moons.
- Add zucchini to large bowl and coat with oil.
- Mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika and thyme. Sprinkle all over zucchini and toss to coat.
- Place zucchini in air fryer basket. Try to get into single layer.
- Air fry zucchini 10-12 minutes turning halfway through cooking time.
