Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rings with Creamy Dip

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Serves: 2

Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rings with Creamy Dip

If you’re looking for a healthier twist on classic fried snacks, these Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rings with Creamy Dip are a must-try! What makes this recipe extra special is the creamy dip made from the zucchini centers—no waste, all flavor! Perfect as a vegetarian zucchini appetizer, healthy zucchini snack, or party-friendly finger food, this dish is a fun and delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a whole new way.

Ingredients

  • For the zucchini rings
  • For the dip

Steps

  • How to Make Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rings with Creamy Dip:

    1. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then slice zucchini into thick rounds, then use a corer, cookie cutter, or bottle cap to remove the centers. Save those centers for the dip later!

      Sliced zucchinis on a wooden boardSliced zucchinis with cutting core

    2. Place zucchini rings in a large bowl. Add olive oil, seasonings, vegan Parmesan, cornstarch, and bread crumbs. Toss until every piece is coated in a flavorful, crunchy layer. 💡 Pro Tip: Tip: Mixing the olive oil in with the dry ingredients helps the coating stick better.

      A plate of zucchini rings above a mixing bowlA hand is holding a bowl of flour above a bowl of zucchini ringsA hand is holding a bowl of breadcrumbs above a bowl of zucchini ringsA hand is holding a bowl of parmesan above a bowl of zucchini rings.A hand is holding a bowl of garlic powder above a bowl of zucchini ringsA hand is holding a bowl of paprika above a bowl of zucchini ringsA hand is holding a bowl of black pepper above a bowl of zucchini ringsA hand is holding a bowl of origano above a bowl of zucchini ringsA hand is holding a bowl of oil above a bowl of zucchini rings.A hand above a mixing bowlZucchini rings in mixing bowl

    3. Arrange rings in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray (or in the air fryer basket).

      Zucchini rings in mixing bowl is next to basket of air fryerZucchini rings in mixing bowl and Zucchini rings in basket of air fryer

    4. Bake or air fry for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and beautifully golden.

      Zucchini rings in in basket of air fryerA tong is holding a zucchini ringCooked zucchini rings in basket

    5. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté the zucchini centers with a pinch of salt for 3–5 minutes, until softened.

      A hand is holding a bowl of oil above a panA bowl of center of zucchini above a panA bowl of salt is above a pan filled with center of zucchiniCooked center of zucchini

    6. Transfer to a blender with lemon juice, vegan yogurt, and seasonings. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

      A pan of cooked center of zucchini is above a jarA hand is holding a bowl of lemon juice of a jar of cooked center of zucchiniA hand is hold a jar of yogurt above a jar of cooked center of zucchiniA hand is hold a bowl of salt above a jar of cooked center of zucchini. A hand is hold a bowl of black pepper above a jar of cooked center of zucchini. A hand is hold a bowl of paprika above a jar of cooked center of zucchiniA hand is hold a bowl of origano above a jar of cooked center of zucchiniA hand is hold a bowl of garlic powder above a jar of cooked center of zucchiniA hand blender is next to a jar of ingredientsA bowl of dipping sauce.

    7. Plate up your hot zucchini rings and serve with the dip. For extra flavor, sprinkle on more Parmesan and spices right after cooking.

      Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rings with Creamy Dip Recipe

Recipe Notes

Tips

Make these crispy Parmesan zucchini rings for a healthy snack or appetizer!

Baked or air fried to golden perfection and served with a creamy zucchini dip.

A delicious vegetarian zucchini appetizer and zucchini fries alternative.