Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan

Thank you so much for visiting the blog today! I’m genuinely excited to share this recipe with you. If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, staring at a few zucchini and wondering how to turn them into something crave-worthy, then this is your moment. Right after the title, let’s just say it loud and clear—this Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible.

It’s the kind of recipe that surprises you. One bite and you’re like, “Wait… this is zucchini?!” Whether you’re looking for a quick veggie side or a light and flavorful snack, this air fryer recipe transforms ordinary into extraordinary. Best of all, it’s ready in under 15 minutes and doesn’t require turning on your oven.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan

If you’ve never been excited about zucchini, this might be the recipe that changes your mind. I’ve made this for picky kids, skeptical adults, and full-blown veggie lovers—and it wins them all over every time. What’s not to love about something that’s crispy, cheesy, golden brown, and still somehow healthy?

This recipe is:

• Quick and easy: Just slice, season, and air fry.
• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
• Packed with flavor thanks to Parmesan and Italian seasoning.
• Made with just a handful of ingredients.
• Low-carb, gluten-free (if you skip the panko), and full of nutrients.
• A great way to sneak more veggies onto the plate without complaints.

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! Serve it as a snack, side dish, appetizer, or even toss it onto salads or grain bowls. There’s really no wrong way to enjoy it.

What Does Air Fryer Zucchini Taste Like?

Think of zucchini, but better. Much better. The air fryer gives each slice a lightly crisp edge while the inside stays tender—not mushy. The Parmesan melts and crisps in spots, giving a savory, cheesy flavor with those beautiful golden flecks that look and taste amazing.

The Italian seasoning lends a subtle herby warmth, and a little salt and pepper bring it all together. It’s not greasy, not heavy, but completely satisfying in that way that only crispy things can be.

I made this batch last week, and it disappeared so quickly I didn’t even get to photograph the leftovers. I’m kicking myself for not having shot it straight out of the fryer, steam still rising. The smell alone—Parmesan and herbs mingling—is reason enough to try it.

Benefits of Making This Recipe

Aside from the fact that it tastes incredible, here are a few more reasons this recipe earns a regular spot in my rotation:

• It’s a healthier alternative to fried snacks.
• Air frying uses less oil, so it’s lower in fat and calories than pan-frying.
• Zucchini is high in antioxidants, potassium, and fiber.
• You can make it with pantry staples.
• It’s naturally gluten-free if made without breadcrumbs.
• This recipe is a great way to introduce picky eaters to vegetables.

Plus, if you have an abundance of summer zucchini (looking at you, gardeners), this is a fun and flavorful way to use them up without falling back on the usual suspects like zucchini bread or grilled slices.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 3 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• Spray olive oil, or 1–2 tablespoons if using a brush
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

• Add 2–3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Try garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for added flavor.
• Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative.
• Use yellow squash or pattypan squash as a substitute or mix in for variety.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need much for this one, but here’s what helps:

• Air fryer (either basket or tray style)
• Cutting board and knife (or a mandoline slicer for perfect uniform rounds)
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or silicone spatula for tossing and transferring

How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating helps give the zucchini that crisp exterior and prevents sogginess.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini

Wash and dry the zucchini, then slice them into ½-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices even in thickness so they cook uniformly.

Step 3: Season the Zucchini

Place the zucchini rounds in a bowl and toss them with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. A light spray or drizzle is all you need—the goal is to coat them without drenching them.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the seasoned zucchini and toss again to coat. The cheese won’t stick perfectly to every slice, but that’s fine—it’ll melt and crisp where it lands.

Step 5: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Place the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray. Avoid overlapping, which can lead to steaming instead of crisping. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 6: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Air fry at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking or flipping the zucchini halfway through. Keep an eye on them toward the end—they should be golden brown on the edges and crisp.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the zucchini immediately while still hot and crispy. They make a delicious appetizer, side, or even a low-carb snack you can eat right off the tray.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Zucchini

These cheesy rounds are incredibly versatile. Here are a few pairing ideas to complete your plate:

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or steak for a balanced dinner.
• Pair with marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or ranch for dipping.
• Use them as a topping for salads or grain bowls.
• Add them to a wrap with hummus and roasted red peppers.
• Serve with crusty bread and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired snack board.

Looking for a more indulgent pairing? Try them alongside sweet and savory dishes like Hawaiian Roll French Toast for the ultimate weekend brunch spread. The salty-crispy zucchini balances the richness of that sweet dish so well.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini

• Always preheat your air fryer for best results.
• Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air circulation is key to crispiness.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal melting and crisping.
• For extra crunch, add panko or a spoonful of cornmeal to the cheese coating.
• Want even more flavor? Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the mix.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored and revived beautifully.

Storage:
Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispness. Avoid microwaving—they’ll go soggy fast.

You can also freeze them before cooking. Lay the seasoned zucchini rounds on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

About Zucchini: A Versatile Kitchen Staple

Zucchini is a summer squash that’s mild in flavor and rich in nutrients. It’s mostly water—over 90%—which makes it a low-calorie option that still feels satisfying when prepared well.

Smaller zucchinis tend to be more flavorful and less watery than large ones. They also have fewer seeds and a more tender texture. Choose ones that are firm with shiny, blemish-free skin for the best results.

Zucchini is a great source of:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Manganese
• Antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin

It’s a staple ingredient for everything from baking to roasting to spiralizing. But this air fryer version? Quite possibly my favorite yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake the zucchini on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F for about 15–18 minutes. Flip halfway for even browning. While it won’t be as crispy as the air fryer version, it’ll still be delicious.

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option can work well. Just adjust salt levels accordingly, as some cheeses are saltier than Parmesan.

Can I make this low-sodium?
Yes. Simply reduce the amount of salt or use a salt-free seasoning blend in place of Italian seasoning. Parmesan adds some saltiness on its own, so adjust based on taste.

Can I meal prep this?
Yes, but it’s best to prep and season the zucchini ahead of time, then air fry just before serving. Cooked zucchini tends to lose its texture if left too long.

What if my zucchini turns out soggy?
This usually happens if the slices are too thick, crowded in the basket, or not cooked at a high enough temperature. Make sure your air fryer is fully preheated and work in batches if necessary.

Conclusion: A Simple, Flavorful Way to Love Your Veggies

This Air Fryer Zucchini with Parmesan is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together in the most delicious way. It’s light yet satisfying, crispy but not greasy, and incredibly easy to make.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding a family, or entertaining friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even better? You don’t need a deep fryer, hours in the kitchen, or any fancy ingredients. Just zucchini, cheese, and a few pantry staples.

So next time you see zucchini on sale or growing wild in your garden, you know exactly what to do. Make a batch (or two!) of this crispy, golden goodness and let the compliments roll in.

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to leave a review and share a photo on Pinterest. I’d love to see how yours turns out!

More Delicious Recipes to Try

Looking to expand your snack or brunch menu? Check out these reader favorites:

• Fudgy Dairy Milk Caramel Blondies: Perfectly chewy with gooey caramel bites.
• Peanut Butter Cup French Toast Rolls: A sweet breakfast treat that doubles as dessert.
• Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Soft, buttery rolls soaked and griddled to perfection.

These pair wonderfully with savory bites like this zucchini recipe for a full spread of textures and flavors.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Makes approximately 4 servings:

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 210mg

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