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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Recipe

Zucchini, also known as courgette in the UK, is a versatile vegetable that can lend itself to a variety of dishes. However, one of the best ways to enjoy it is by making crispy air fryer zucchini. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, making it the perfect snack, side dish, or even a light vegetarian meal. With the air fryer, you can achieve that delightful crunch without the excessive oil of traditional frying. Let’s dive into this delicious crispy air fryer zucchini recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 medium courgettes (zucchini)
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko or standard)
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian alternative)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• Olive oil spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Breading station
• Tongs or a fork

Method

1. Prepare the Zucchini
   Start by washing the courgettes thoroughly. Slice them into approximately 1/4-inch thick rounds or sticks, depending on your preference. The key is to make them uniform in size for even cooking.

2. Set Up the Breading Station
   In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

3. Coat the Zucchini
   Take each slice of courgette, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere. Place the coated zucchini on a plate or a separate tray. Repeat this process until all the pieces are breaded.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. This step helps to achieve a crispy texture.

5. Air Fry the Zucchini
   Lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded zucchini in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini with olive oil for a golden finish.

6. Cooking Time
   Air fry the zucchini for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary depending on the model of your air fryer.

7. Check for Crispiness
   Once the courgette slices are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. If you prefer them a bit crispier, you can pop them back in for an additional 2-3 minutes.

8. Garnish and Serve
   Transfer the crispy air fryer zucchini to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, if desired. Serve warm, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce or a zesty dip of your choice.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it Up: Feel free to add some cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat or extra flavour.

• Make it Vegan: Substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water – let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavour.

• Add a Crunch: For extra texture, consider mixing in some crushed nuts, like walnuts or almonds, with your breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer zucchini is an easy and healthy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, a party nibble, or a side to accompany your main meal, this dish delivers on flavour and crunch. Plus, the air fryer makes it a healthier alternative to traditional frying while retaining all the moisture and taste of the courgette. So, grab your air fryer and give this fantastic recipe a go! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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