Mediterranean Air Fryer Zucchini
This Mediterranean Air Fryer Zucchini is a quick and healthy side dish or snack that’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with zesty herbs and spices. Tossed in olive oil, oregano, garlic, and finished with crumbled feta and fresh lemon juice, these zucchini rounds are the perfect Mediterranean-inspired alternative to fries or chips.
Ready in under 15 minutes, they make an easy appetizer, side, or low-carb snack.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 18-20 minutes
Ingredients:
2 medium zucchinis, sliced into ½-inch rounds or half-moons
1½ tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp feta cheese, crumbled (for garnish)
1 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Juice of ½ lemon (plus extra wedges for serving)
Instructions:
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes.
Season the Zucchini:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Make sure all pieces are evenly coated.
Air Fry the Zucchini:
Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the zucchini is golden and slightly crisp on the edges.
Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the cooked zucchini to a serving plate.
Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh herbs.
Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with tzatziki, hummus, or garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.
Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or fish as a fresh side dish.
Use as a topping for grain bowls, salads, or Mediterranean wraps.
Tips & Variations
Tips for Success:
Single Layer Cooking:
For the crispiest texture, air fry the zucchini in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
Pat Zucchini Dry:
If your zucchini is very moist, pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning to help prevent sogginess.
Monitor Cook Time:
Air fryer models vary. Start checking around 7 minutes to avoid overcooking and adjust based on your preferred texture—slightly crisp or soft.
Serve Immediately:
Air-fried zucchini is best served right away for optimal texture. It will soften as it sits.
Flavor Variations:
Add Parmesan:
For extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the zucchini during the last 2 minutes of air frying.
Spicy Kick:
Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, Aleppo pepper, or drizzle with spicy olive oil before serving.
Herb Options:
Swap oregano for za’atar, Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary for different Mediterranean flavors.
Lemon Zest Boost:
Add lemon zest before cooking for extra citrusy aroma, or mix it with feta at the end for brightness.
Breadcrumb Crunch:
Toss zucchini slices in a light coating of panko breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil for a crispier texture.
Vegan Version:
Skip the feta or use a plant-based feta alternative for a vegan-friendly side.
Use Yellow Squash:
Substitute or mix in yellow squash for color variety and similar texture.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini?
A: Fresh zucchini works best for this recipe because frozen zucchini tends to release too much water and won’t crisp properly in the air fryer.
Q: Can I bake this in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the zucchini slices and seasoning in advance and air fry just before serving.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Serve alongside:
Grilled chicken or lamb
Falafel or gyros
Hummus or tzatziki
As a topping for grain bowls or salads
Q: Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
A: Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in flavor, making it great for keto or low-carb Mediterranean-style meals.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup cooked zucchini)
(Based on 4 servings)
Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 250mg
Cholesterol: 5mg
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Air Fryer Zucchini is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish that delivers crispy edges, tender centers, and bold herbaceous taste. With simple prep and a short cook time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a colorful addition to your Mediterranean spread. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled proteins or serving it as a snack with dips, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.