Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty side dish or even a light meal? Look no further! This vegan air fryer zucchini recipe is your answer. Forget soggy zucchini; this method delivers perfectly crispy, tender zucchini slices every time. It's so easy, even beginner cooks will feel like pros, and the results are restaurant-worthy. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
Instructions:
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Prepare the Zucchini: Wash and slice the zucchini into even 1/4-inch thick rounds. This ensures even cooking. Thicker slices will require slightly longer cooking time.
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Toss with Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat all the slices evenly. If using nutritional yeast, add it now and toss again.
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Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of crisping. Work in batches if necessary.
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Cook: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the zucchini is tender and golden brown. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of the zucchini slices.
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Serve: Remove the zucchini from the air fryer and serve immediately. This delicious side dish pairs perfectly with almost any meal – from grilled tofu to hearty vegan chili.
Tips for the Best Air Fried Zucchini:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: This is crucial for achieving crispy zucchini. Work in batches if necessary for optimal results.
- Even slicing is key: Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.
- Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on your zucchini and adjust the cooking time as needed depending on your air fryer and desired level of crispiness.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Zucchini: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused Zucchini: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- Parmesan Zucchini (vegan): Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the zucchini before air frying for a cheesy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 50-70
- Fat: 3-5g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10g
- Fiber: 1-2g
This vegan air fryer zucchini recipe is a fantastic example of how quick, easy homemade cooking can also be healthy and delicious. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meal options. Enjoy!