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Close-up of crispy parmesan zucchini rings cooked in the air fryer until golden and crunchy

Crispy Zucchini Rings with Creamy Lemon Dip (Air Fryer or Oven)

Sweet Family Meals
If you're looking for a fun way to use fresh zucchini, these Crispy Zucchini Rings are about to become a favorite. Coated in a flavorful blend of breadcrumbs, parmesan, and spices, they turn golden and crunchy in the oven or air fryer while staying tender inside.
What makes this recipe extra special is the creamy lemon zucchini dip made from the zucchini centers, so nothing goes to waste. The dip adds a fresh, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy rings.
This easy zucchini appetizer is great for summer gatherings, family dinners, game days, or whenever you need a healthy snack that still feels satisfying. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these crunchy zucchini rings deliver plenty of flavor without deep frying.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 4 people
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Zucchini Rings

  • 3-4 medium zucchini sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4-5 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2-1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese grated (or vegan parmesan)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Creamy Lemon Zucchini Dip

  • zucchini centers from the rings
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish

  • extra parmesan cheese
  • fresh parsley chopped
  • lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer or oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Slice the zucchini into thick rounds, about ½ inch thick. Using a small round cutter, apple corer, or bottle cap, remove the centers to create rings. Reserve the centers for the dip.
  • Place the zucchini rings in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
  • Add the cornstarch, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the zucchini rings are evenly coated.
  • Arrange the zucchini rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Air fry or bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until golden brown and crispy.
  • While the zucchini rings cook, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the reserved zucchini centers and a pinch of salt. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
  • Transfer the cooked zucchini centers to a blender or food processor. Add the lemon juice, yogurt, tahini, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Serve the crispy zucchini rings warm with the creamy lemon zucchini dip. Garnish with extra parmesan, fresh parsley, or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

## Nutrition Information
The nutrition information provided is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Per Serving (1/4 of recipe):
  1. Calories: 180 kcal
  2. Carbohydrates: 22g
  3. Protein: 5g * Fat: 8g
  4. Saturated Fat: 2g
  5. Fiber: 3g
  6. Sugar: 5g
  7. Sodium: 380mg
  8. Potassium: 420mg
  9. Vitamin A: 520 IU
  10. Vitamin C: 22mg
  11. Calcium: 90mg
  12. Iron: 1mg
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