Air Fryer Zucchini Recipes Vegan for Easy Healthy Meals

When it comes to quick, healthy, and delicious vegan meals, air fryer zucchini recipes are an absolute game-changer. Zucchini is an incredibly versatile vegetable that pairs beautifully with a variety of herbs and spices.

Using an air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also ensures that your zucchini comes out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re prepping a quick snack or a side dish, these vegan air fryer zucchini recipes will satisfy your cravings while keeping things light and nutritious.

In this post, you’ll find several creative ways to enjoy zucchini made in the air fryer. From crispy zucchini fries to savory zucchini rounds, each recipe is simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Plus, these dishes are perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. Get ready to discover your new favorite zucchini recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer zucchini recipes are perfect for those who want a tasty, healthy snack or side without the fuss of deep frying. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to crisp up the zucchini, reducing the oil needed and keeping calories in check.

These recipes are not only vegan but also gluten-free if you choose appropriate coatings, making them accessible for many dietary needs.

Another reason to love these recipes is their versatility. You can easily adjust seasonings or coatings to suit your taste preferences.

The zucchini cooks quickly, making these recipes ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. Plus, the texture achieved with the air fryer—crispy outside and tender inside—is simply irresistible!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, washed and sliced into sticks or rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chickpea flour or all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer (any model with at least 3.5-quart capacity)
• Mixing bowls for batter and coating
• Whisk or fork for mixing wet ingredients
• Baking tray or plate for breadcrumb mixture
• Tongs for flipping zucchini pieces in the air fryer
• Knife and cutting board for preparing zucchini

Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut them into sticks (about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick) for fries, or into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
2. Make the wet batter: In a bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour and plant-based milk until smooth. This will help the coating stick to the zucchini.
3. Prepare the dry coating: On a baking tray or plate, mix the panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the zucchini: Dip each zucchini piece first into the wet batter, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
5. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
6. Arrange the zucchini: Place the coated zucchini pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even crisping. You may need to cook in batches.
7. Cook: Air fry the zucchini for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated zucchini with cooking spray before air frying.

Try seasoning variations like Italian herbs, curry powder, or chili flakes to customize your zucchini fries.

If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.

For a simpler version, toss zucchini rounds with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then air fry for 8-10 minutes for a quick roasted veggie side.

Want to add more protein? Serve with a side of vegan ranch or tahini dip, or sprinkle with hemp seeds after cooking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These crispy air fryer zucchini fries or rounds make a fantastic snack or appetizer. Pair them with a tangy vegan ranch dip, marinara sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for dipping.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or quinoa bowl.

They also complement many dishes beautifully, such as vegan burgers, wraps, or even alongside a warming soup. If you’re interested in exploring more plant-based recipes, check out our 50 Cupcake Recipes for a sweet treat or our Zucchini, Peppers, Onions & Tomatoes Recipe for a colorful vegetable medley.

More Delicious Vegan Air Fryer Zucchini Recipes

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Thinly sliced zucchini chips are a crunchy, healthy alternative to potato chips. Simply slice zucchini into very thin rounds, toss with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices, then air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Serve with guacamole or salsa for a perfect snack.

Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Halve zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the center. Fill the boats with a savory mixture of cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.

Top with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, then air fry at 380°F for 12-15 minutes until tender and golden. These boats make an impressive yet easy main course.

Crispy Zucchini Tots

Grate zucchini, then squeeze out excess moisture. Mix with chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and chopped green onions.

Form into small tots and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, turning once. These tots are perfect for lunchboxes or party platters.

Zucchini Fritters

Combine shredded zucchini with diced onions, chickpea flour, herbs, and seasoning. Form into small patties and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Serve with a vegan sour cream or tzatziki for a tasty appetizer or side dish.

For more inspiration on plant-based cooking, explore our Bobo’S Lemon Poppyseed Oat Bar Recipe for a refreshing dessert or the Ww Appetizer Recipes collection for party-ready vegan bites.

Conclusion

Air fryer zucchini recipes offer a wonderful way to enjoy this nutrient-rich vegetable in exciting new formats. Whether you’re craving crispy fries, savory stuffed boats, or light zucchini chips, the air fryer makes preparation quick and easy while keeping the dishes healthy and vegan-friendly.

These recipes are flexible, allowing you to experiment with your favorite flavors and seasonings.

Adding more plant-based meals to your diet doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, and these zucchini dishes prove just that. With minimal ingredients and a handful of simple steps, you can create impressive dishes that satisfy both your taste buds and your health goals.

Don’t forget to check out our other recipes to keep your vegan kitchen vibrant and delicious!

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