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In today’s health-conscious world, finding delicious snacks that are both satisfying and nutritious can be a challenge. Enter the crispy air fryer turkey zucchini poppers—a delightful and wholesome alternative to traditional fried snacks. These poppers combine the goodness of lean turkey and nutrient-rich zucchini, wrapped in a flavorful, crispy coating that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer for a gathering or a guilt-free snack for movie night, these poppers deliver on taste without compromising your health goals.

Air Fryer Turkey Zucchini Poppers

Looking for a tasty and healthy snack option? Try these Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Zucchini Poppers. Made with lean ground turkey and nutrient-rich zucchini, these poppers offer a delicious alternative to traditional fried snacks without the guilt. The air fryer ensures they come out crispy while cutting down on oil and calories. Perfect as an appetizer or a movie night treat, these poppers are easy to make and packed with flavor. Enjoy a nutritious snack that satisfies your cravings!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out

1 pound ground turkey

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat or gluten-free)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini: Start by grating the zucchini using a box grater. To remove excess moisture, place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Gather the edges of the towel and twist to wring out as much liquid as possible. This is an essential step to ensure your poppers remain crisp and do not become soggy.

    Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, drained grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until well combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Form the Poppers: With your hands, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into small, bite-sized balls or patties. Place each formed popper on a plate lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are compact enough to hold their shape during cooking.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Prepare your air fryer by preheating it to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 3-5 minutes. This step helps achieve a perfectly crispy texture.

          Spray & Arrange the Poppers: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the turkey zucchini poppers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are spaced out and not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

            Cook the Poppers: Air fry the poppers at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning. The poppers should turn a beautiful golden brown and be fully cooked, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C).

              Serve: Once cooked, remove the poppers from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm for the best flavor, with optional marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the poppers on a serving platter, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Serve the marinara sauce in a small bowl for dipping, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor experience.