Zucchini with Seasoned Salt and Olive Oil

Introduction

Diced zucchini cooks in about 8 minutes in the air fryer, and the combination of olive oil, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder gives you browned edges with a tender center. You can use it as a fast dinner side, or make it for bowls, wraps, or eggs when you need a vegetable that takes very little work.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 7 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 zucchinis
• 1 pinch of seasoned salt
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder to taste (optional)
• Onion powder to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Dice zucchini into medium-sized squares.
2. Transfer zucchini to a bowl, and add olive oil to your preference. A few tablespoons is a good starting point.
3. Add the season salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss to coat all the zucchini well.
4. Put in air fryer, and cook for 8 minutes at about 205 °C (400 °F) or until crispy.

Variations

• Replace 1 zucchini with yellow squash for a mixed vegetable version with a slightly softer texture.
• Swap the seasoned salt for lemon pepper if you want a brighter, sharper finish.
• Add paprika along with the garlic powder and onion powder for more color and a mild smoky note.
• Change the cut in step 1 from medium-sized squares to thicker half-moons if you want less browning and a softer bite.

Tips for Success

• Cut the zucchini into evenly sized pieces so they finish cooking at the same time.
• Use enough olive oil to coat the surface, but not so much that it pools in the bowl or the zucchini steams instead of browning.
• Spread the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket if possible; overcrowding traps moisture.
• Check the zucchini at 8 minutes and pull it when the edges look browned and the centers are just tender.
• Toss thoroughly in step 3 so the pinch of seasoned salt is distributed across all the pieces.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This does not freeze well; the zucchini turns watery and loses its texture after thawing.

Reheat in the air fryer at 190 °C (375 °F) for 2 to 4 minutes to bring back some crispness. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes. The microwave works for convenience, but the zucchini will be softer.

FAQ

Can you make this without garlic powder and onion powder?

Yes. The zucchini will still work with just olive oil and seasoned salt, and the flavor will be simpler.

Why did the zucchini turn soggy instead of crispy?

That usually happens if you used too much olive oil, cut the pieces too small, or crowded the air fryer basket so the zucchini steamed.

Can you use the oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes. Roast the zucchini on a sheet pan at 220 °C (425 °F) for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning once if you want more even browning.

Do you need to peel the zucchini first?

No. The peel helps the pieces hold their shape, and it softens during cooking.