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This air fryer zucchini parmesan turns a simple vegetable into the kind of golden cheesy snack you keep reaching for. It is my secret weapon when everyone wants something crunchy fast but I want to keep things healthy. When zucchini is everywhere in summer this is one of my favorite ways to use it up and it never lasts more than a few minutes on the table.
Every time I make these, the smell of garlic and cheese fills the kitchen. I made this first for a Sunday lunch and ever since then it has been my go to for easy family gatherings or whenever a neighbor drops in.
Ingredients
- Medium zucchinis: Fresh and bright green with no soft spots for best flavor and texture
- Breadcrumbs: Choose a crunchy style or panko for a crisp outer layer
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty nutty richness be sure to use real Parmigiano Reggiano for extra flavor
- Garlic powder: Boosts the savoriness select a fine powder for even coating
- Italian seasoning: Brings classic herby taste dried oregano and basil blends work well
- Salt and pepper: To balance all the flavors use fresh cracked pepper for a small kick
- Egg: Helps breadcrumbs stick for perfect crust large eggs make dipping easier
- Cooking spray: Keeps the parm crust crispy and golden use olive oil spray for best results
Instructions
- Prepare The Zucchini:
- Wash zucchinis well and trim both ends Slice each zucchini into rounds about half an inch thick for even crisping
- Mix The Coating:
- Combine breadcrumbs grated parmesan garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper in a shallow bowl Stir thoroughly so every bite will pick up the flavors
- Coat The Zucchini:
- Beat the egg in a separate bowl Dip each zucchini slice into the egg letting any excess drip off then dredge through the breadcrumb parmesan mix to coat fully
- Arrange In Air Fryer:
- Lay out coated zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer The slices should not overlap to get symmetrically crisp
- Spray And Cook:
- Generously mist the tops of the zucchini with cooking spray Set air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for five to six minutes Flip each piece carefully then spray again and let cook five to six more minutes until golden and crunchy all over
- Serve And Enjoy:
- Remove hot zucchini parmesan to a platter For best taste serve straight from the fryer while the shell is ultra crispy and the inside is soft
The parmesan is my favorite part for its salty tang. One night I let my niece sprinkle extra cheese herself just before serving and now it is our little cooking ritual. This dish always brings everyone to the kitchen before dinner is even served.
Storage Tips
Let the zucchini cool fully before packing it away This helps avoid steam which can make the crust go soggy Use an airtight container lined with a paper towel if possible to soak up moisture Store in the refrigerator and pop back in the air fryer to revive its crunch
Ingredient Substitutions
Pecorino romano stands in for parmesan if you want more sharpness or if that is what you have I use panko sometimes when I want an even crunchier shell and gluten free breadcrumbs work beautifully For a little color and sweetness try subbing in yellow squash
Serving Suggestions
Hot from the air fryer these love a side of warm marinara or a drizzle of garlic aioli I scatter fresh parsley for color The crunchy coins are great tucked into grain bowls or next to grilled proteins and make amazing game day munchies
Cultural Context
This recipe draws inspiration from Italian parmigiana but skips the heavy sauce and deep frying in favor of a lighter modern approach Air frying celebrates the fresh flavor of zucchini and the cheese brings a bit of nostalgia for classic Italian kitchens I always think of my grandma insisting on the best cheese and perfectly ripe vegetables
Seasonal Adaptations
Use yellow summer squash when zucchini is not in season Fresh garden herbs add a bright note in spring In winter serve as a crunchy topping for hearty soups
Success Stories
I first whipped these up as a quick appetizer for friends one weekend By the time the movie started the plate was cleared and now friends ask for the recipe before they leave One neighbor begged for the trick to keeping the coating crisp even with leftovers
Freezer Meal Conversion
Freeze uncooked breaded zucchini slices flat on a tray then transfer to a bag for future snacking Pop the frozen slices straight into the air fryer and add a couple extra minutes of cook time for a fresh crispy bite any time
This recipe is a delicious way to use up summer zucchini and makes for an easy crispy snack. You will want to make a double batch because they always disappear fast!
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do you achieve crispy zucchini rounds in the air fryer?
Arrange slices in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and avoid crowding for even, golden crispiness.
- → What are the best breadcrumbs for this method?
Panko or classic crunchy breadcrumbs provide a light, airy texture for the crispest results.
- → Can you use other vegetables?
Eggplant, mushrooms, or yellow squash all work deliciously with the same steps and coating.
- → How do you store and reheat leftovers?
Keep cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge; reheat in the air fryer to retain their crunch.
- → Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Swap out parmesan for a dairy-free alternative or use nutritional yeast for a similar savory note.