Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Slice them into uniform rounds or sticks so they cook evenly. Place the zucchini in a large mixing bowl.

Season the zucchini: Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini and toss gently to coat each piece. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss again until the zucchini slices are evenly coated with the seasonings and oil, ensuring every piece is flavorful.

Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the zucchini will cook quickly and develop a lightly crisp exterior.

Air fry the zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece for proper air circulation. Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the zucchini halfway through to ensure even cooking. The zucchini should be tender inside with slightly golden edges when done.

Optional cheesy finish: If you want a cheesy twist, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the zucchini during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Close the air fryer and allow the cheese to melt and form a light, crispy crust.

Serve: Transfer the zucchini to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm as a healthy snack, side dish for dinner, or even alongside your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for extra flavor.