Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
A crisp zucchini side that doesn't go mushy: salt, dry, roast, finish bright.
Timing note: 22 mins
Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
A crisp zucchini side that doesn't go mushy: salt, dry, roast, finish bright.
Timing note: 22 mins
The Key Move
Salt zucchini briefly, pat it dry, then roast hot with space--crispness is a moisture problem.
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The Setup
- Air Fryerbasket style
- Clean Kitchen Towel
The Mise en Place
5 of 6Your prep station before cooking begins
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My zucchini coins came out soggy, not crispy.
Ah, that usually means we didn't get enough moisture out before they hit the heat, or they were too close together.
My zucchini coins look all wrinkly and soft.
That sounds like they might have cooked a little too long. These cook fast! Start checking them around the 12-minute mark. You're looking for those nice browned edges, and pull the…
Chef's Notes
Best fresh. Refrigerate up to 2 days and re-crisp briefly in air fryer.
The Method
SALT
Prep aheadToss zucchini (2 whole) coins with salt and let sit 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
This step prevents steaming and sogginess. • Visible moisture on the plate/bowl
Zucchini releases liquid
DRY
Pat zucchini (2 whole) very dry with a towel. The drier the surface, the crispier the result.
Dry surface is the browning lever. • No visible wet sheen
Coins feel dry, not slick
PREHEAT
Preheat the air fryer to 400F (205C) for 3 minutes.
Starting hot helps edges crisp quickly. • A wave of heat when basket opens • Hot, dry convection heat
TOSS
Toss dried zucchini (2 whole) with olive oil (1½ tbsp), pepper, and garlic powder (½ tsp) (if using).
Too much oil softens crisping. • Coins lightly glossy, not drenched • Fresh green aroma
Light coating with no oil pooling
ROAST
Air fry 10 minutes, shake, then cook 3-5 minutes more until browned at edges.
Cook in batches if crowded—crowding makes steam. • Roasted spots on coins • Roasted zucchini aroma
Edges browned; centers tender
FINISH
Squeeze lemon over the zucchini (2 whole) and taste for salt.
Acid at the end keeps roasted vegetables tasting fresh. • Light sheen without watery pooling • Lemon lifts the roasted aroma
Bright finish with balanced seasoning
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