Low-Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan Recipe

Low-Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan Recipe is a game changer when you want a crispy, cheesy snack without the guilt. If you’ve ever wished zucchini could taste like your favorite fried treat but without the oil slick, this recipe will be your new best friend.

Why You Should Try Low-Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan

Zucchini usually gets a bad rap for being bland or mushy, right? But when you air fry it with a parmesan crust, it transforms into a crunchy, flavorful delight. Plus, it’s low in calories, which means you can enjoy it guilt-free. This recipe uses the air fryer to get that crispy texture without drowning the zucchini in oil. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those snack attacks or a side dish that won’t weigh you down.

Variation I’ve Tried

Over the years, I’ve played around with this recipe quite a bit. Sometimes I swap parmesan for pecorino romano for a sharper bite. Other times, I toss in some Italian seasoning or a pinch of smoked paprika to add a little extra oomph. If you want to keep it super simple, just salt and pepper work wonders too. For a little kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before air frying. Trust me, each variation brings something fun to the table.

Adaly Kandice

Low-Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan

A healthy and delicious low-calorie zucchini parmesan recipe prepared easily in an air fryer, perfect as a tasty appetizer or side dish.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients

  

• 2 medium zucchini
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

 

1. Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. In a bowl, whisk the egg.
3. In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each zucchini slice into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer.
6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
7. Serve immediately as a healthy appetizer or side dish.

Notes

For extra crispiness, you may spray a little oil on top of the zucchini before air frying. Adjust seasonings to taste. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Tips for Low-Calorie Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan

• Slice zucchinis evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate no one likes a soggy slice next to a crunchy one.
• Don’t skip the cooking spray; it’s the secret to that golden crust without deep frying.
• If you like extra cheesy, add a little parmesan on top halfway through cooking.
• Keep an eye on the air fryer the first time you try this recipe; air fryers can vary in power.
• Use fresh parmesan cheese, not the pre-grated stuff, for a better texture and flavor punch.

Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days. To re-crisp, pop them back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes instead of the microwave. Trust me, the microwave turns them into sad little soggy disks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t skip the egg wash; it’s what helps the coating stick.
• Avoid stacking zucchini slices in the air fryer crowding leads to uneven cooking.
• Using too thick slices can make them mushy inside, so stick to about 1/4 inch.
• Over-seasoning can overpower the delicate zucchini flavor, so balance is key.
• Forgetting to preheat the air fryer can cause uneven cooking times.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g

There you have it, a crispy, cheesy, low-calorie zucchini treat that’s easy to whip up and hard to resist. Who knew zucchini could be this fun?