Air fryer zucchini flowers are a timeless classic of Italian cuisine, loved for their delicacy and versatility. In this lighter but equally tasty version, they are prepared in the air fryer, achieving a crispy coating without using traditional frying. The filling of provolone and cooked ham makes them gooey and savory, perfect as an appetizer, aperitif, or delicious main course. Easy to make and ready in minutes, these zucchini flowers will win everyone over at the first bite.
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- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Very cheap
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 12 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 zucchini flowers
- 5.3 oz provolone cheese
- 2 slices cooked ham
- 2 eggs
- to taste breadcrumbs
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch salt
Tools
- 1 Air Fryer
- Parchment Paper
- 1 Oil Sprayer
Steps
To start preparing the air fryer zucchini flowers, gently clean the zucchini flowers, carefully removing the internal pistil without damaging the petals. Rinse them under water and dry them carefully, trying not to break them.
Cut the provolone cheese into sticks about 0.4 inches thick and wrap each piece with cooked ham. Insert the filling inside the zucchini flowers, then close them by gently rolling the top part of the petals.
Repeat the operation for all the flowers. In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Dip each flower first in the egg, then in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are completely covered.
Place the breaded flowers in the air fryer basket, previously lined with perforated parchment paper, being careful not to overlap them. Drizzle a little oil on each flower, or spray the oil with a sprayer, and cook at 374°F for about 10 minutes.
Halfway through cooking, turn them to achieve an even golden color. Once well golden and crispy, serve them immediately, still hot.
Storage and Tips
The air fryer zucchini flowers should be consumed as soon as they are prepared, while the coating is still crispy. Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for one day and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.
If you prefer, you can replace the cooked ham with prosciutto, speck, or bacon, according to your taste. For a more flavorful coating, you can add chopped herbs to the breadcrumbs.
