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Light Crispy Zucchini Snack Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 112 reviews

This Light Crispy Zucchini Snack is a perfect healthy treat featuring thinly sliced zucchini coated in a flavorful, crunchy mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then air-fried to golden perfection. It’s an easy, guilt-free appetizer or side dish that offers a satisfying crunch without the heavy oil of traditional frying.

Ingredients

Scale

Zucchini

  • 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced

Breading Mixture

  • 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

Coating

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Finishing

  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat fully to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  2. Prepare zucchini: Use paper towels to pat the thinly sliced zucchini dry, removing as much moisture as possible to help the coating stick better and achieve crispiness.
  3. Mix breading: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
  4. Coat zucchini slices: Dip each zucchini slice first into the beaten eggs, then press gently into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
  5. Arrange for cooking: Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Optionally, lightly spray the slices with olive oil to enhance crispness.
  6. Air-fry zucchini: Cook the zucchini in batches for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time until the slices are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot as a delicious snack or side dish.

Notes

  • Patting the zucchini dry is essential to prevent sogginess in the final snack.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Light olive oil spray helps achieve extra crunch but can be omitted for a lower-fat snack.
  • Flip the zucchini halfway through air frying to ensure even browning on both sides.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara, ranch, or a lemon aioli.

Keywords: zucchini snack, crispy zucchini, air fryer zucchini, healthy snack, panko coated zucchini

Find it online: https://dinewithdylan.com/light-crispy-zucchini-snack-recipe/