Description
This Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan transforms simple zucchini into a crispy-edged, savory masterpiece with minimal oil. It’s the perfect dish for a vibrant side or a delightful vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium-sized zucchini
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Olive oil spray
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- First, wash and trim both ends of your zucchini. Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle them generously with salt on both sides. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. Gently blot away all the excess moisture with more paper towels.
- While the zucchini is sweating, prepare your breading station. In a shallow bowl, whisk your two large eggs until well combined. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Working in batches, dip each zucchini slice first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to both sides. Place the breaded zucchini slices on a clean plate or baking sheet.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Once hot, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange a single layer of breaded zucchini slices in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini with olive oil spray.
- Air fry the zucchini for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Repeat this process until all the zucchini slices are cooked.
- In an oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange a single layer of the crispy air-fried zucchini slices over the sauce. Top with a spoonful of marinara, then a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a dash of Parmesan. Repeat these layers until you've used all the zucchini, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Carefully place your assembled dish into the preheated air fryer. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Let the Zucchini Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: Don't skip the salting step to prevent soggy zucchini. Always cook in a single layer in the air fryer for the best results.