If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy zucchini, this air fryer zucchini recipe is perfect for you. These crispy, gluten-free zucchini slices cook in just 15 minutes and make for a fantastic side dish or appetizer. The air fryer ensures they are perfectly golden and crunchy without the need for excessive oil, making them a guilt-free treat.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 large zucchini (or 2 smaller ones, about 12 ounces in total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour for a non-gluten-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice Zucchini:
- Slice the zucchini into thin circles, about 1/8-inch thick. Thinner slices will result in crispier zucchini but may require batch cooking if your air fryer is not large enough.
- Prepare Zucchini Coating:
- In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chickpea flour, salt, garlic powder, and ground black pepper.
- Coat Zucchini Slices:
- Dip each zucchini slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides. Shake off any excess.
- Place the coated zucchini slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping.
- Cook Zucchini:
- Cook the zucchini slices for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check for doneness and crispiness.
- If needed, flip the zucchini slices and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes until they are evenly golden.
- Batch Cooking:
- If you have more zucchini to cook, repeat the coating and cooking process for additional batches.
- Once all the zucchini is cooked, you can add all the slices back into the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve the air fryer zucchini warm right away for the best flavor and texture.
- Enjoy it as a side dish or with your favorite dip as an appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a creamy garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or ranch dip.
- Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a balanced meal.
- Add to a veggie platter for a party appetizer.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to slice the zucchini evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding herbs like oregano or thyme.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health.
- Chickpea flour adds protein and fiber, making this a nutritious snack.
- Olive oil provides healthy fats that are good for heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Yes, if using chickpea flour.
- Vegetarian: Yes.
- Vegan: Yes, if using chickpea flour and ensuring all ingredients are vegan.
- Dairy-Free: Yes.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the zucchini back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and nutritious, suitable for various dietary needs.
- Versatile as a side dish or appetizer, and customizable with your favorite seasonings.
Conclusion:
This air fryer zucchini recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, crispy snack or side dish with minimal effort. The air fryer does all the work, giving you perfectly golden zucchini slices every time. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a party appetizer, or a healthy snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of air-fried zucchini!