Air Fryer Zucchini Pizza Boats (Print version)

Crispy zucchini halves loaded with pizza sauce, bubbly mozzarella, and pepperoni, cooked in the air fryer in about 20 minutes with no oven to preheat.

# Ingredients:

For the boats

01 - 4 medium zucchini (about 7-8 inches long), halved lengthwise
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - Salt and black pepper to taste

For the filling

05 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) pizza sauce or marinara
06 - 1 cup (100 g) low-moisture shredded mozzarella
07 - 1/2 cup (55 g) mini pepperoni
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
09 - Fresh basil leaves, to serve (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Halve each zucchini lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, leaving a wall about 1/4 inch thick. Pat the cut interior dry with paper towels.
02 - Brush the inside of each boat with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Place the boats cut-side up in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 4 minutes to drive off excess moisture from the flesh.
04 - Spoon about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce into each boat and spread to the edges. Cover evenly with shredded mozzarella.
05 - Scatter mini pepperoni over the cheese. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
06 - Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6 to 8 minutes until the cheese is melted with golden spots and the zucchini edges look lightly golden.
07 - Let the boats rest for 2 minutes before serving. Top with fresh basil if using.

# Good to know:

01 - Medium zucchini (7-8 inches) work best. Very large ones release more water and cook less evenly.
02 - Best served immediately while the cheese is still bubbly.