Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy - Photo 1

Main Dish

Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer is the ideal twist for those who love the great Italian classics but are looking for a lighter, faster version. The idea came about almost by accident, on a hot summer day when turning on the oven seemed impossible. So I decided to experiment with my favorite parmigiana with the air fryer... and it was love at first taste! The result is amazing: flavor-rich layers of zucchini, tomato and cheese alternate harmoniously, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The surface grates with an irresistible golden crust, while the interior remains pleasantly firm and slightly crispy. The use of unprecooked zucchini gives the dish a stronger texture, enhancing the contrast between softness and crispiness. One key caution: be sure to drain the zucchini well before assembling. If they retain too much water, you risk compromising the texture and ending up with a watery parmigiana. Perfect for a light lunch, summer dinner or weeknight meal prep, this variation will win you over with its simplicity and flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 zucchini (about 1.5 lb/600 gr)
• 7 oz/200 gr tomato puree
• 1/3 cup grated mozzarella (80 gr )
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (30 gr)
• 4 basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt to taste
• pepper to taste

Materials

• Baking dish 8x6 inches 21x15 cm (suitable for air fryer)
• Air fryer
• Mandoline
• Paper towels (or clean dishcloth)
• Pasta strainer
• Bowl

Preparation

• Step 1:

  

  Step 1 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Wash the zucchini thoroughly, remove the ends, and slice finely with a mandoline.

• Step 2:

  

  Step 2 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Line a colander with paper towels or a clean tea towel. Arrange a layer of zucchini and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Continue alternating zucchini and salt until all ingredients are used up.

• Step 3:

  

  Step 3 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Cover the zucchini with a paper towel (or dishcloth), then place a weight on top to help drain excess water (like a bowl filled with water). Allow to stand for at least 40 minutes. Place a plate or container under the colander to catch the liquids.

• Step 4:

  

  Step 4 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Blot zucchini with kitchen paper to remove salt and moisture released during resting.

• Step 5:

  

  Step 5 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Combine the tomato puree, hand-chopped basil, a pinch of salt and a grind of pepper in a bowl, mixing well to blend the flavors.

• Step 6:

  

  Step 6 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Pour some of the seasoned tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish and make a first layer of zucchini.

• Step 7:

  

  Step 7 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Add some sauce, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, spread mozzarella cheese and continue in the same way until all ingredients are used up.

• Step 8:

  

  Step 8 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Top with a layer of tomato sauce and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese.

• Step 9:

  

  Step 9 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  Place the pan in the basket of the air fryer and proceed with baking at 350°F/180°C for 15-17 minutes.

• Step 10:

  

  Step 10 - Zucchini parmigiana in air fryer: quick, light and crispy

  The zucchini parmigiana in air fryer is ready.

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