Light Crispy Zucchini Snack Recipe
Introduction
This Light Crispy Zucchini Snack is a delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchini with a satisfying crunch. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and air-fried to golden perfection, it’s a quick and healthy treat perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking.
- Step 2: Pat the zucchini slices dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture for crispier results.
- Step 3: In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 4: Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten eggs, then press both sides gently into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with olive oil for extra crispness if desired.
- Step 6: Air-fry the zucchini in batches for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Serve immediately as a tasty snack or side dish for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular panko.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a subtle spicy kick.
- Pair these zucchini snacks with a dipping sauce like marinara or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover zucchini snacks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep them from getting soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake these zucchini snacks instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 425°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or simply omit it—your snacks will still have great taste from the spices and breadcrumbs.
Print
Light Crispy Zucchini Snack Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Enjoy a light and crispy zucchini snack that’s perfect for a healthy bite or a delicious side dish. These zucchini slices are coated with a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then air-fried to golden perfection for a crunchy, guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
Zucchini and Coating
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding and Finishing
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and allow it to fully preheat before cooking for optimal crispiness.
- Prepare the Zucchini: Thinly slice the zucchini and pat the slices dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is key to achieving a crispy texture.
- Mix the Breading: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful coating mixture.
- Coat the Zucchini Slices: Dip each zucchini slice first into the beaten eggs, then press gently into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even coating on both sides.
- Arrange for Cooking: Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the slices with olive oil to boost crispiness if desired.
- Air-Fry the Zucchini: Cook the slices in batches for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until slices are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately as a delicious snack or a side dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the zucchini slices to prevent sogginess.
- Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for a gluten-free diet.
- These snacks are best eaten fresh for maximum crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: zucchini snack, air fryer zucchini, crispy zucchini, healthy snack, low fat snack, parmesan zucchini, panko zucchini
