Fried Zucchini Recipe

Air fried zucchini plated with dipping sauce.

5 from 6 votes

My lip-smackin' fried zucchini recipe delivers golden-brown, crispy perfection while keeping the insides tender. Make in the air fryer or deep-fry!

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Servings: servings

Calories: 232kcal

Author: Jocelyn Delk Adams

Equipment

Ingredients

1 pound Zucchini 2 large or 3 medium
1 ½ teaspoon plus extra Kosher salt divided
½ cup All-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon Baking soda
2 large Eggs
¼ cup Buttermilk
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
Nonstick cooking spray*
Vegetable oil*

Instructions

Cut zucchini in half cross-wise, then cut into 3 ½ x ½ inch batons. Season with 1 teaspoon salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
Set up a dredging station, with three bowls—mix flour and baking soda in the first bowl; eggs, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and buttermilk in the second bowl; and the breadcrumbs in the third.
In three to four batches, place zucchini in each bowl, shaking off excess.

For Air-frying

Spray zucchini with cooking spray and place in air fryer.
Cook on 380F for 7 minutes.
Remove from air fryer and season with salt.
Repeat with remaining zucchini (2-3 batches, depending on the size of your air fryer).
Serve hot immediately.

For Deep-frying

Heat 4 cups vegetable oil to 375F in heavy-bottomed 2 quart pot.
Gently lower zucchini into hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes, until deep golden brown
Drain on paper towel-lined plate and season with salt.
Wait until temperature returns to 375F. Repeat with remaining zucchini.
Serve hot immediately.

Notes

How to Store & Reheat

Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture and keep the fried zucchini from getting soggy.

Reheating: Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they're crispy and heated through. Avoid using a microwave for reheating as it can make the zucchini soggy.

Can I Freeze?

Yep let the zucchini cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once they're frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, you can reheat the frozen zucchini in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. There's no need to thaw them first.

Nutrition