Crunchy Snack Heaven
Air fryers are all the rage these days! And it’s easy to see why — they give your food a delectable crunch without all that excess fat that can weigh you down. Seriously, even picky eaters will enjoy this air fried zucchini because there are endless flavor combinations to choose from. Keep it simple with salt and lemon juice, or jazz it up with whatever spices you’re in the mood for! Today, we’re making this crunchy snack without breading for a few reasons. It saves time (breading is quite the process), makes them gluten-free (perfect for all eaters), and reduces the calorie count (triple whammy)! Let’s cook.
Here’s What You’ll Need
As far as zucchini recipes go, this one is stupidly simple. With the exception of the zucchini, you probably have everything else in the pantry already!
Zucchini: This veggie has some great fiber and a mild taste that is easy on picky eaters. Salt: Salt has two purposes here. It draws the excess water out of the zucchini (this is how you get crispy zucchini in the air fryer) and enhances flavor. Olive Oil: Everyone has this on hand. It works at most temperatures and doesn’t have a strong flavor! (Note that while air frying is a great low-fat way of cooking, adding a little oil is still important for crispiness!) Lemon Juice: Pucker up! This finishing touch is not to be skipped. It counters any bitterness in your zucchini.
Making Air Fried Zucchini Is So Easy
Three simple steps are all it takes to enjoy these crispy, crunchy air fried zucchini chips. Step 1: Dry The ZucchiniThe secret to getting anything crispy in the air fryer is to remove excess moisture. Putting salt on the zucchini will help draw out water, which you press out with a paper towel. Go science! Step 2: Toss With SeasoningsIn a large bowl, toss the zucchini chips with salt and oil. Step 3: Cook The ZucchiniYour zucchini is done when it’s beginning to brown and fork-tender. That’s it! Step 4: Serve The ChipsAdd a sprinkle of lemon juice in a serving bowl, then serve your air fried zucchini warm.
Turn Them Into Fries
Did you know you don’t have to slice your zucchini into rounds? If your zucchini is thicker (giant garden zucchini in summer, anyone?), go ahead and dice it in cubes or in long “fries” to change up this air fryer zucchini recipe!
Recipe Variations
Different Squash: Feel free to substitute yellow squash (or any type of summer squash) for the zucchini. Just ensure they aren’t too thick, as they can have fairly large seeds once they grow. Different Oil: If you have avocado oil on hand, try it instead of olive oil. With a slightly different flavor profile than olive oil, you might stumble on a new favorite! Spice It Up: Looking for more flavor? Don’t stop with salt. Parmesan cheese or ranch dressing powder would be divine. Or how about tossing the zucchini chips in taco seasoning and using them as the base of nachos? My savory popcorn seasoning ideas are great starting points.
Pair These With
When the craving for a “burger and fries” hits, these air fryer zucchini chips are the perfect side dish. Pair them with options like these:
Portobello Mushroom Burgers: A hearty and meaty main next to a green salad and these chips. French Onion Dip: There’s no guilt when you use these air fried zucchini chips as a dipping vehicle. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Get your maximum veggie consumption in by piling these chips next to a salad.
