Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

Name: Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 small to medium zucchini; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping); 3/4 tablespoon garlic powder; 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Kosher salt and pepper

Published: June 20, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 5 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to cook, making it ideal for busy nights.
Flavorful Goodness: The combination of garlic and parmesan elevates the natural taste of zucchini, creating a delicious treat everyone will love.
Versatile Side: Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini pairs well with various main dishes, from chicken to beef or even vegetarian options.
Healthy Option: With low calories and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is a healthy alternative to traditional fried sides.
Easy Cleanup: Cooking in an air fryer means less mess compared to frying or baking, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful side dish, you’ll need some essential tools that ensure smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: Provides a healthier cooking method while delivering crispy results without excess oil.
Mixing bowl: Makes it easy to combine ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
Cutting board & Sharp knife: Essential for safely slicing the zucchini into uniform pieces for cooking.

Ingredients

For this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Zucchini

2 small to medium size zucchini
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsps grated parmesan cheese (plus more to sprinkle over top)
3/4 Tbsp garlic powder
1/2 Tbsp Italian seasoning
Kosher salt, pepper

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchini into 1/4 inch rounds.
Place the sliced zucchini in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Drizzle in the olive oil.
Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and pepper to taste.
Toss everything together until the zucchini is evenly coated with the seasonings.

Step 3: Cook in Air Fryer

Place the seasoned zucchini slices into the air fryer basket; it’s fine if they overlap slightly.
Sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Set your air fryer to cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini as a tasty side dish!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini is not only a delicious side dish but also versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve this tasty treat.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

The crispy texture of the zucchini complements juicy grilled chicken perfectly, creating a balanced meal.

Serve with Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad adds a healthy grain element, making your plate colorful and nutritious.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkling fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhances the flavor and presentation, adding a burst of color.

Enjoy as an Appetizer

Serve these zucchini slices warm as an appetizer at gatherings. They are sure to impress your guests!

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Cut Evenly: Slice zucchini into uniform 1/4 inch pieces to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve a better texture and quicker cooking time.
Don’t Overcrowd: Place zucchini in a single layer for optimal air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor and heat.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Grilled Lemon Chicken
Juicy chicken marinated in lemon juice and herbs complements the flavors of the zucchini.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness balances the savory taste of the garlic parmesan zucchini.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness and crunch alongside this dish.
Rice Pilaf
A light rice pilaf cooked with herbs provides a fluffy base that allows the zucchini flavors to shine through.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and veggies create a hearty addition that pairs well.
Pasta Primavera
Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta make for a vibrant, filling side that complements the zucchini’s flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini even better. Here are some tips:

Boldly skip seasoning: Not seasoning your zucchini properly can lead to blandness. Be sure to add enough salt, pepper, and your favorite spices for maximum flavor.
Boldly overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can result in uneven cooking. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer for best results.
Boldly ignore size uniformity: Slicing zucchini into uneven sizes affects cooking time. Aim for 1/4 inch slices to ensure they cook evenly.
Boldly forget to preheat: Skipping preheating the air fryer may lead to longer cooking times. Always preheat your air fryer for consistent results.
Boldly skip the extra cheese: Neglecting to sprinkle extra parmesan on top before cooking can mean missing out on an added flavor boost.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

Place cooled zucchini in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm, usually about 1-2 minutes.
Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a little olive oil until warmed through, approximately 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini:

What variations can I try with Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini?

You can mix up the seasonings by adding chili flakes for heat or using different cheeses like mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.

Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! This method works well with other vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or squash. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I know when my Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini is done?

They should be golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking time.

Is it necessary to peel the zucchini before cooking?

No need! The skin adds nutrients and texture. Just wash them thoroughly before slicing.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Zucchini is a fantastic side dish that is both simple and delicious. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and pair it with various meals. Give it a try, and enjoy experimenting with different seasonings!

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