This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my privacy policy.
This easy air fryer zucchini is crispy on the outside, tender inside, and coated in olive oil, Parmesan, and paprika for a burst of flavor. A quick, healthy side dish that cooks in just 12 minutes and goes with almost anything.
Zucchini In Air Fryer (No Breading Needed)
I first made this when I wanted a simple veggie side to go with dinner that wasn’t boring or soggy. Zucchini can be tricky because it goes from firm to mushy fast, but the air fryer fixes that perfectly. You don’t need any breading, and the hot air makes the edges golden and crisp while keeping the inside soft and juicy.
It takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish, and the result is light, flavorful zucchini that’s a little addictive. It’s one of those easy, no-fuss sides that go with everything, chicken such as Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs and Garlic Butter Chicken Tenders, fish such as Honey Garlic Salmon and Moist Oven Baked Cod, or even a bowl of rice. I make it at least once a week because it’s fast, healthy, and always turns out just right.
For more easy zucchini recipes, check out my Parmesan Zucchini Chips, Parmesan Zucchini Fries, and Easy Zucchini Fritters next!
Add This Easy Veggie Side To Your Rotation
Here’s why this easy zucchini side dish recipe deserves a spot on your weeknight table:
- Crispy outside, tender inside. The air fryer makes zucchini golden and slightly caramelized while keeping it soft and juicy inside.
- Quick and fuss-free. With just 12 minutes in the air fryer, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and flavorful without extra work.
- No breading needed. All the flavor comes from olive oil, Parmesan, and a touch of paprika, so you get a light, delicious veggie side without any extra calories or mess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Zucchini
- Paprika
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Check out the full ingredient details in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Pro Tip #1: Don’t Skip The Olive Oil
Just a drizzle helps the zucchini crisp up, keeps it juicy, and makes the Parmesan stick. Little effort, big payoff.
Pro Tip #2: Parmesan Adds Flavor And Crunch
Parmesan gives that golden, slightly crispy finish and a nutty, savory boost that makes the zucchini feel extra special. You can also swap in Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar if you like. Each will give a slightly different flavor and texture but still be tasty and fuss-free.
Pro Tip #3: Simple Seasoning Wins
Salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika highlight the zucchini’s natural flavor and add a little warmth without overcomplicating things. You can also try garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs for a different twist while keeping the zucchini as the star.
Shopping Guide: Picking The Best Zucchini
Look for firm, medium-sized zucchini with smooth, shiny skin and no soft spots or blemishes. Smaller to medium ones are sweeter and less watery, which makes them perfect for air frying. Choose ones that feel heavy for their size. They’ll be tender and flavorful when cooked.
How To Make Air Fryer Zucchini
First, trim off the top and bottom of your zucchini. Slice it into 1–1.5 cm (½ inch) thick pieces, then cut each piece in half so they cook evenly.
Optional step: Pat dry with paper towels if the sliced zucchinis are watery.
Pro Tip: Keeping the zucchini around 1–1.5 cm (½ inch) thick helps them cook evenly. If the pieces are thicker, they’ll take longer to cook, and if they’re too thin, they might get too soft.
Toss the zucchini in a bowl with olive oil, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika. Make sure every piece is well coated so they come out flavorful.
Pro Tip: Don’t let the zucchini sit too long after tossing with salt and oil. The salt draws out water, which can make it less crisp when air frying.
Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 6 minutes.
Flip the zucchini over and air fry for another 6 minutes. This helps them get golden and lightly crisp on all sides while staying tender inside.
Transfer the zucchini to a plate, sprinkle a little extra paprika if you like, and serve right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t recommend it. Frozen zucchini holds extra water and can turn soggy instead of crispy. Fresh zucchini gives the best golden, tender results.
You can, but make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches so the zucchini gets crispy instead of steaming.
Yes! Just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. The zucchini will still be golden, tender, and full of flavor with olive oil and seasonings.
Yes. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F), arrange the zucchini in a single layer on a baking sheet, and roast for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. You’ll still get a golden, tender result.
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to regain some crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep it slightly crisp.
This recipe is 146 calories per serving.
What To Serve With This Recipe
For an easy and wholesome weeknight dinner, I recommend the following recipes:
I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please leave a comment and consider giving it a 5-star rating. For more easy and delicious recipes, explore my Recipe Index, and stay updated by subscribing to my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for new updates.
Other Air Fryer Recipes You Might Like
Air Fryer Zucchini (with Parmesan Cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 zucchini, about 300g (10.6oz), trim off the top and the bottom, slice and cut into halves
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 dashes ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Trim off the top and bottom of the zucchini, then slice into 1–1.5 cm (½ inch) thick pieces and halve each piece.Optional step: Pat dry with paper towels if the sliced zucchinis are watery.
- In a bowl, mix all the ingredients together until the zucchini is well coated.
- Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 6 minutes.
- Flip the zucchini and continue air frying at 200°C (400°F) for another 6 minutes.
- Transfer the zucchini to a plate and sprinkle with paprika, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
