This air fryer simplifies enjoying fried foods with less oil, reducing fat and calories without sacrificing flavor. This recipe guides readers through creating tasty and crispy zucchini rings that are perfect as an appetizer, a side dish, or a wholesome snack using fewer calories than traditional frying.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
What can not be put in the air fryer?
Contents
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1/2 cup wheat flour or almond flour for a gluten free option
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or gluten free breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- spray oil
How to cook zucchini in an air fryer. attribution: Pixabay
how to make zucchini rings
- First wash and dry the squash. Trim the ends and cut the zucchini into slices about 1/2 centimeter thick. Keeping the slices similar in size ensures even cooking.
- Set up three shallow bowls for breading. In the first bowl mix flour with salt and pepper. Beat the eggs in the second bowl. In the third bowl combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese if using, garlic powder and dried thyme.
- Dip each zucchini ring in the flour mixture, tapping off excess. Next dip in the eggs, letting any excess drip away. Finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture and press lightly to help adhesion.
- Preheat the air fryer to 200 degrees Celsius. As it heats, arrange the breaded rings on a tray and spray lightly on both sides with cooking spray to promote browning and crisping.
- Place the rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overlap. Depending on the appliance, it may be necessary to cook in batches for even results.
- Cook the rings for 8-10 minutes, turning once to promote even browning. They are ready when they are golden and crispy.
- Remove the rings to a serving plate. Add a touch more salt or your favorite seasoning if desired for extra flavor.
- Serve warm with sauces such as marinara, mayonnaise, ketchup, aioli, or a yogurt herb sauce. These zucchini rings offer a tasty, healthier option that appeals to the whole family.
Other options for cooking zucchini
For a lighter option, try whole grain breadcrumbs or ground oats in place of standard breadcrumbs. For vegan preparations, use a plant based egg substitute and omit Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast.
Experiment with spices and herbs in the breadcrumb mix to create a distinct flavor profile. Popular choices include smoked paprika, thyme, basil, and rosemary.