Parmesan Panko Air Fryer Zucchini Spears

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, cut into spears (450 g)
• 1 large egg, beaten (50 g)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (60 g)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (45 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (14 g)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (2 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (2 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
• Cooking spray, as needed (2 g)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (8 g)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (115 g)

Instructions

1. Cut and dry. Trim the zucchini, halve each lengthwise, and cut each half into two long spears. Cut overly long pieces crosswise once. Spread on a clean towel and pat thoroughly dry, especially the cut sides; moisture weakens the egg layer and makes crumbs gummy.
2. Mix coating. Beat the egg in a shallow bowl. On a plate, combine panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, pepper, and one-quarter teaspoon salt. Drizzle olive oil over crumbs and work with a fork until distributed but loose. You will dirty 3 dishes total: bowl, plate, and basket.
3. Bread spears. Dip one spear in egg, letting excess fall back into the bowl. Press it into crumbs, turning until every side is covered. Set it on a clean plate section and repeat, keeping coated spears apart so their crusts do not smear before cooking.
4. Heat basket. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for three minutes, if its instructions allow it. Mist basket with cooking spray. For an oven-style model, use the middle rack. Keep the basket clear while heating, because loose crumbs can darken.
5. Space and cook. Arrange spears in one layer with one-half inch between pieces. Cook six minutes, then shake or turn. Cook four to six minutes longer, until deep golden and easily pierced.
6. Serve. Serve immediately with parsley, salt, and lemon.

Notes

• Medium zucchini produce sturdier spears than oversized ones. If centers look very seedy, trim soft portions before coating so pieces finish at the same time.
• Before a second batch, remove loose basket crumbs. They darken during the next cycle and can stick to fresh coating; use only a quick spray mist before reloading.

Nutrition Facts