Go Back
A handheld smartphone photo of golden brown Air Fryer Zucchini Bites on a white plate with a small ramekin of creamy garlic aioli.

Air Fryer Zucchini Bites with Toasted Parmesan Crust

Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Bites featuring a thick panko and parmesan crust. These golden-brown rounds are served with a smooth garlic aioli, offering a perfect crunch and charred edges in every single bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Recipe
  • 2 medium Zucchini sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
  • 1/2 cup (60g) All-purpose flour seasoned with salt/pepper
  • 2 large Eggs beaten
  • 1 cup (60g) Panko breadcrumbs Japanese style
  • 1/2 cup (45g) Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 tsp (2g) Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp (1g) Garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp (4g) Fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) Mayonnaise
  • 1 clove Garlic grated or minced
  • 1 tsp (5ml) Lemon juice freshly squeezed

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer Large capacity preferred
  • 3 Breading Bowls For the flour, egg, and panko stations

Method
 

Prep and Breading
  1. Wash and slice zucchini into 1/4 inch rounds. Pat very dry with paper towels to ensure coating adhesion.
  2. Set up three bowls: one with flour/salt/pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko/parmesan/dried herbs.
  3. Dredge rounds in flour, dip in egg, and press firmly into the panko mixture until a thick, textured crust forms.
Air Frying
  1. Place rounds in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Mist generously with oil spray for golden-brown browning.
  2. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until edges are charred and the crust is toasted.
Finishing Touches
  1. Whisk mayonnaise, grated garlic, and lemon juice in a small ramekin until smooth and creamy.
  2. Pile zucchini bites on a plate, dust with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with the garlic aioli.

Notes

Always preheat your air fryer for the best 'charred edge' results.
Do not crowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain airflow.