Craving the crispy, tangy goodness of fried pickles without the guilt? This low-carb air fryer fried pickles recipe is your ultimate solution! It delivers all the deliciousness of deep-fried pickles with a fraction of the carbs and calories, making it a perfect healthy snack for any occasion.
If you’re on the hunt for a truly satisfying yet healthy snack, look no further than these incredible air fryer fried pickles. They are astonishingly easy to prepare and boast an irresistible flavor. Best of all, they’re significantly healthier than their traditional deep-fried counterparts, offering a smart way to enjoy your favorite treats.
Not only do we make them healthier by utilizing the magic of the air fryer, which drastically reduces the need for excessive oil, but we also transform them into a fantastic low-carb option. By substituting conventional breadcrumbs or panko with crushed pork rinds, this recipe becomes perfectly suitable for those following a keto diet. Now, everyone can indulge in crunchy, flavorful fried pickles without compromising their dietary goals.
Embarking on a low-carb journey can sometimes feel restrictive, especially when it seems like many beloved foods are off-limits. We’ve certainly experienced those moments where finding delicious, compliant snacks felt like an impossible task. However, with a little creativity and a willingness to explore new ingredients, we discovered wonderful alternatives that allowed us to enjoy our favorite flavors while staying true to our health goals. Day by day, we learned valuable tips and tricks for significantly reducing sugar and carbohydrate intake without sacrificing taste.
Because snacks are an integral part of our daily routine, giving them up entirely was not an option. Fortunately, ingredients like pork rinds have emerged as perfect low-carb substitutes for traditional breadcrumbs. This simple swap makes it incredibly easy to create crispy coatings for various snacks, allowing us to continue enjoying the foods we love, just in a healthier way. These air fryer fried pickle chips are a prime example of how delightful and satisfying a low-carb snack can be!
Crispy Air Fryer Fried Pickles: A Keto-Friendly Delight
Discover the magic of air-fried pickles! This section delves into why air frying pickles is not only a fantastic way to enjoy this classic snack but also how to ensure they’re perfectly crispy and delicious every time. Say goodbye to greasy deep-frying and hello to a lighter, healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. Whether you call them pickle chips or fried pickles, this method will change your snack game.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Fried Pickles
We’ve gathered some of the most common questions about making and enjoying air fryer fried pickles to ensure you have all the information you need for a perfect batch. From storage tips to serving suggestions, let’s explore how to get the most out out of this delightful snack.
What is the best way to store leftover fried pickles?
For optimal freshness and to maintain their delightful crispness, it’s best to enjoy air fryer fried pickles immediately after cooking. However, if you do have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, a minute or two in the microwave can warm them through, but be aware that this method often leads to a softer texture. For a better attempt at crispness, pop them back into the air fryer for a couple of minutes until heated through. While reheating can’t perfectly replicate their initial crunch, the air fryer will provide the closest result to freshly made.
Can this air fryer fried pickle recipe be doubled?
Absolutely, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can easily be doubled or even tripled! We often do this, especially when preparing for larger gatherings like game-day parties. While the prep time will naturally increase slightly, the delicious outcome is well worth the effort. Fried pickles are always a crowd-plepleaser and are usually the first snack to disappear, so making a larger batch is highly recommended to ensure everyone gets enough of these irresistible treats.
How Air Frying Technology Works
While air fryers might seem like a modern kitchen innovation, the technology behind them isn’t entirely new. At their core, air fryers function much like miniature convection ovens, conveniently sized for your countertop. They employ a powerful fan to circulate extremely hot air rapidly within the cooking chamber.
This forced hot air circulation is key to their effectiveness. It ensures that heat is distributed evenly around all surfaces of your food, leading to more consistent cooking and often significantly reduced cooking times compared to traditional ovens. By circulating this hot air, which carries fine oil droplets from a light misting of cooking spray, the air fryer creates a crispy, golden exterior. This process effectively mimics the results of deep-frying but without the need to submerge foods in heavy oils, giving you that satisfying crunch we all love in a much healthier package.
Can You Freeze Air Fryer Fried Pickles?
Yes, you can certainly freeze air fryer fried pickles for future enjoyment! To freeze them properly, arrange the cooked and cooled fried pickles in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the pickles are solid. This step prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the frozen fried pickles in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, reheat them in the air fryer at 350-375°F (175-190°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until they are hot and re-crisped. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Other Tasty Air Fried Snacks to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with these crispy air fryer fried pickles, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer is a versatile appliance capable of transforming a wide array of ingredients into delicious, healthier snacks. Here are some other fantastic air-fried creations you simply must try:
- Air Fryer Cheeseburger Egg Rolls: A creative twist on a classic, perfect for appetizer night.
- Pizza Rolls in the Air Fryer: Recreate your favorite frozen snack with an unbeatable crunch.
- Air Fryer Taquitos: Crispy, savory, and quick – ideal for a Tex-Mex craving.
- Air Fryer Potato Chips: Homemade chips with a perfect crisp, minus the deep-frying mess.
- Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli: A gourmet-tasting appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Air Fryer Pickles Without Breadcrumbs: The Low-Carb Secret
The secret to making these air fryer fried pickles low-carb and keto-friendly lies in our innovative breading alternative. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs or panko, which are high in carbohydrates, we use finely ground pork rinds. This ingenious substitution not only keeps the carb count incredibly low but also delivers an exceptional crunch and savory flavor that perfectly complements the tangy pickles. Prepare to be amazed by how delicious and satisfying a breadcrumb-free coating can be!
Unlocking the Benefits of Air Frying for Healthier Meals
Air frying has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. This versatile cooking method offers a myriad of benefits that go beyond just making crispy food. Let’s delve into why incorporating an air fryer into your kitchen routine can significantly improve your cooking experience and dietary habits.
Healthier Cooking Options
It’s widely known that traditionally fried foods are often high in fat and calories. Did you know that every gram of fat contains 9 calories? With air frying, you can dramatically reduce your fat intake and overall calorie count by minimizing the amount of oil typically required for achieving that coveted crispy texture. By using just a light mist of cooking spray, you can create deliciously crunchy foods that are significantly lighter and better for your health.
Unmatched Convenience
One of the greatest advantages of the air fryer is its unparalleled convenience. I personally love how it streamlines the cooking process, often eliminating the need for large baking sheets and a pile of pots and pans. Most air fryer recipes, including these fried pickles, can be prepared with just one or two mixing bowls in addition to the air fryer itself, making for minimal cleanup and a hassle-free cooking experience.
Energy Efficiency for Your Home
You might wonder why you should use an air fryer if a conventional oven can achieve similar results in the same amount of time. The answer lies in energy efficiency. Air fryers consume less energy than a full-sized oven because they are smaller and heat up faster. This not only helps you keep your home cooler during the summer months by avoiding the use of a hot oven but also contributes to reduced energy consumption costs, saving you money in the long run.
A Real Time Saver in the Kitchen
For many, time is a precious commodity, especially when it comes to meal preparation. If I can avoid turning on the oven and waiting 15-20 minutes for it to preheat, I’m thrilled. Most air fryer recipes either require no preheating at all or a preheat time of 5 minutes or less. This substantial time saving over conventional oven cooking means you can get delicious meals and snacks on the table much quicker.
Portability for On-the-Go Delights
Another fantastic feature of the air fryer is its compact and portable design. This makes it incredibly easy to pack and take along on trips. We frequently bring ours in our RV, discovering that air frying while camping is infinitely simpler and safer than attempting to deep-fry foods on a small RV stove or camping burner. Enjoy perfectly cooked meals and snacks wherever your adventures take you!
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Pickles
To create these irresistible low-carb air fryer fried pickles, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of tangy, savory, and crispy texture:
- Dill pickle slices: The star of the show! Choose your preferred thickness, but thin slices work best for maximum crispness.
- Ground pork rinds (pork rind crumbs): This is our secret low-carb breading, providing an amazing crunch and savory flavor.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder, helping the pork rind crumbs adhere to the pickle slices.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that enhances the pickle flavor.
- Ground black pepper: A touch of spice to round out the seasoning.
- Paprika: Contributes a beautiful color and a mild, peppery flavor.
- Coconut flour: Helps to absorb excess moisture from the pickles, ensuring a crispier coating.
- Cooking oil in a spray bottle: A light spritz is all you need for that golden, air-fried finish.
- Optional additions: Ranch for dipping, your favorite sauce, and dried parsley for garnish.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of pork rinds?
While I haven’t personally tested this recipe with gluten-free breadcrumbs, I believe they would work to provide an exterior texture. The primary goal of the coating is to add a crispy layer. If you’re not strictly adhering to a low-carb or keto diet, you could also use regular panko or traditional breadcrumbs if you prefer. These alternatives will still yield delicious fried pickles, though they will have a higher carbohydrate count. The choice depends entirely on your dietary preferences and goals.
What to serve with air fryer fried pickles
Air fryer fried pickles are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic standalone snack, a delightful appetizer, or a unique side dish. While they are certainly delicious on their own, pairing them with the right dipping sauce can elevate the experience even further. The classic choice is often Ranch dressing, but don’t hesitate to experiment with ketchup or any of your favorite dipping sauces. For a heartier serving, try them alongside a juicy sandwich or a gourmet burger for a truly satisfying meal.
For those seeking a little culinary adventure, a particularly mouthwatering combination is a dipping sauce made from equal parts creamy Ranch dressing and tangy BBQ sauce – absolutely delish! Here are some of our favorite complementary dishes and dips to serve with air fryer fried pickles:
- Artichoke Spinach Dip: A creamy, flavorful dip that pairs wonderfully.
- Pretzel Cheese Dip: Rich and cheesy, perfect for a savory combo.
- Everything Bagel Dip: A unique, savory dip with fantastic texture.
- Garlic Parmesan Pasta Chips: Another air-fried crispy treat that complements pickles.
What other dipping sauces do you recommend for fried pickles?
While creamy Ranch Dressing remains a perennial favorite for dipping fried pickles, it’s always fun to experiment with different flavors! Changing up your dipping sauce can introduce exciting new dimensions to this already delicious snack. Here are some of our top recommended sauces to try with your air fryer fried pickles:
- Creamy Veggie Dip: A cool, herbaceous option that provides a refreshing contrast.
- Crack Dip: An intensely flavorful and addictive dip that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
- Sausage Cheese Dip: For a heartier, more indulgent pairing, this savory dip is a winner.
- Buccaroo BBQ Dipping Sauce: A sweet and smoky sauce that adds a fantastic tangy twist.
- Sriracha Ranch: If you like a little heat, this spicy and creamy blend is absolutely irresistible.
Can these low-carb fried pickles be baked instead of air fried?
Yes, absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer or simply prefer to use your oven, you can certainly bake these low-carb fried pickles. To do so, prepare the pickle slices according to the instructions, ensuring they are coated with the egg wash and pork rind mixture. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
The Ultimate Keto Fried Pickles: Guilt-Free Snacking
For those committed to a ketogenic lifestyle, finding satisfying and compliant snacks can be a challenge. These keto fried pickles are a game-changer! By thoughtfully replacing high-carb breading with crushed pork rinds, we’ve created a snack that delivers exceptional flavor and crunch without knocking you out of ketosis. They are a testament to how creative ingredient swaps can open up a world of delicious, guilt-free eating options. Enjoy the tangy, savory goodness knowing you’re sticking to your low-carb goals.
Air Frying Doneness Tip for Perfect Results
Achieving the perfect crispness in your air fryer can sometimes feel like an art, as every air fryer model is a bit different and may cook at varying rates. Therefore, it’s important to remember that all cooking times provided in recipes are approximate and serve as a general guideline. These estimates are based on typical pan sizes and temperatures, but your specific appliance might behave uniquely.
Always use the recommended cooking time as a starting point. If your air fryer fried pickles aren’t as crispy or golden as you’d like, you can always continue cooking them for a few extra minutes. Conversely, if you notice they are browning too quickly, you can slightly reduce the heat for the remainder of the cooking time. For situations where the top is browning excessively but the inside still needs time, you can gently tent the food with a small piece of foil to shield it from direct heat. Trust your judgment and adjust as needed for consistently delicious results!
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Pickles – Low-Carb Version
Ready to create your own batch of irresistibly crispy, low-carb air fryer fried pickles? Follow these simple steps for a delicious and guilt-free snack:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the pork rinds into a large zip-top bag. Use a rolling pin or another heavy object to crush them into fine crumbs.
- Pour the crushed pork rind crumbs into a small bowl. Add the paprika, garlic powder, and ground black pepper, then mix well to combine.
- Using paper towels, thoroughly pat dry the excess moisture from the dill pickle slices. This is a crucial step for achieving maximum crispness. Add the dried pickles to a large bowl.
- Sprinkle the coconut flour over the pickles and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk the large egg until well beaten.
- Using tongs, dredge the floured pickle slices through the egg wash in small batches.
- Allow any excess egg wash to drip off, then press the pickles firmly into the seasoned pork rind mixture, ensuring a complete and even coating.
- Transfer the coated pickles to a plate and repeat the process until all pickle slices are coated.
- Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spritz the cooking trays or basket of your air fryer with cooking oil.
- Arrange the coated pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the trays, making sure they do not overlap.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve your homemade air fryer fried pickles immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Ranch dressing is a fantastic option!
- For an optional touch of freshness and color, sprinkle some dried parsley over your dipping sauce or directly on the pickles.
What Are Air Fryer Fried Pickles?
Air Fryer Fried Pickles are a culinary revelation: a delicious, low-carb snack or side dish that can be prepared in mere minutes! This popular appetizer transforms ordinary dill pickle slices into extraordinarily crispy bites by coating them in a light, flavorful breading and cooking them to perfection in an air fryer. The result is a wonderfully crunchy exterior and a tangy, juicy interior that tastes remarkably similar to traditional deep-fried versions, but without the excess oil and calories. Served with a creamy ranch dressing or your preferred dipping sauce, these fried pickles are sure to become your new favorite way to enjoy pickles.
Embrace Low-Carb Fried Pickles: A Smart Snack Choice
Steering towards a low-carb diet doesn’t mean sacrificing your favorite indulgent snacks. These low-carb fried pickles are proof that smart substitutions can lead to equally, if not more, delicious outcomes. By utilizing the air fryer and a clever pork rind coating, we’ve crafted a snack that delivers on flavor, texture, and dietary compliance. They offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of tangy flavor, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without feeling deprived. Enjoy this guilt-free pleasure as an appetizer, a party snack, or a delightful accompaniment to your low-carb meals.
What Are The Best Pickles For Air Fryer Fried Pickles?
The quality and type of pickle you choose can significantly impact the final taste and texture of your air fryer fried pickles. For the best results, we recommend using dill pickle slices that are relatively thin. Dill pickles offer that classic tangy and savory flavor profile that complements the crispy coating beautifully. While dill pickle spears can be used, slices or “chips” tend to work exceptionally well as they provide more surface area for the breading, leading to a crispier overall bite.
If you opt for thicker slices of pickle or spears, be mindful that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time in the air fryer to achieve the desired level of crispness and tenderness. Regardless of your choice, ensure the pickles are well-drained and patted dry before coating them, as excess moisture can prevent the breading from sticking and getting truly crispy.
NOTE- If using an air fryer with a basket, you may need to flip the pickles halfway through the cooking process to ensure even crisping on all sides.
What Is The Best Temperature To Cook Air Fryer Fried Pickles?
To achieve that perfectly crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, the optimal temperature for cooking air fryer fried pickles is 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). This high heat allows the pork rind coating to crisp up quickly and beautifully, mimicking the texture of deep-frying without absorbing excessive oil. Cooking at this temperature ensures a golden-brown finish and a satisfying crunch that makes these pickles truly irresistible.
How Long Do Air Fryer Fried Pickles Take To Cook?
At the recommended temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C), air fryer fried pickles typically take about 10-12 minutes to cook. However, the exact cooking time can vary based on a few factors. The thickness of your pickle slices will play a role – thinner slices will cook faster, while thicker ones might need a couple of extra minutes. Additionally, how crispy you prefer your fried pickles will also influence the cooking duration. Always monitor them towards the end of the cooking time and adjust as needed to reach your desired level of golden crispness.
How to Prevent Sticking in the Air Fryer for Perfect Results
Sticking can be a common frustration when using an air fryer, but there are effective ways to prevent it without damaging your appliance or compromising your food’s texture. Many people instinctively reach for non-stick cooking spray, but I strongly advise against using aerosol sprays directly in your air fryer basket.
The propellants and certain ingredients in these sprays can leave a sticky residue that builds up over time and becomes incredibly difficult to remove, even with thorough washing. This buildup can eventually lead to smoking and diminished performance of your air fryer.
Similarly, I do not recommend lining your air fryer basket or tray with aluminum foil. The fundamental principle of air frying relies on hot air circulating freely around all sides of the food. The holes or perforations in the basket/tray are specifically designed to facilitate this airflow. If you cover these with foil, you obstruct the circulation, preventing proper cooking and crisping, particularly on the bottom of your food.
Instead, for superior non-stick performance, I recommend these alternative methods:
- **Use an Olive Oil Spray Bottle:** Invest in a reusable spray bottle and fill it with your preferred cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil. Lightly spritz the air fryer basket or food directly. This provides a clean, even coating without harmful residues.
- **Perforated Parchment Paper:** For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, you can line your air fryer with perforated parchment paper. These liners have holes that allow air to circulate while keeping your basket clean.
- **Silicone Liners:** Another excellent reusable option is a silicone liner specifically designed for air fryers. These are durable, easy to clean, and often feature ridges or perforations that still allow for proper airflow, ensuring your food gets crispy without sticking.
Air Fryer Pickle Chips: The Ultimate Snack
Transforming ordinary pickle slices into crispy, golden “pickle chips” in the air fryer is a culinary game-changer. These air fryer pickle chips are not just a snack; they’re an experience! Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by the familiar tangy burst of dill, perfectly seasoned and guilt-free. They are ideal for satisfying those savory cravings, serving as a standout appetizer, or even as a unique side for your favorite meals. Once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this healthier, equally delicious alternative to deep-fried versions.
Which Air Fryer Model Do You Recommend?
Over the years, our kitchen has hosted a few different air fryer models, each with its unique strengths. Currently, we actually have three air fryers to suit various cooking needs!
We initially started with a smaller model from Philips, which was excellent for learning the ropes and cooking for one or two people. I’ve since passed that one on to my son, as it’s perfectly sized for his single-person cooking.
As I became more accustomed to air frying, I realized a digital screen was a feature I truly desired. Surprisingly, my XL air fryer from GoWISE proved to be less expensive than the Philips, and I absolutely adore its user-friendliness and additional functions. Plus, it came with many of the extra accessories I frequently use, enhancing my cooking versatility.
However, when I began working on my second air fryer cookbook, I decided to experiment with a different style. That’s when I acquired this LARGE air fryer with touch screen presets, and it has been nothing short of wonderful. Its XL family size is incredibly practical for batch cooking and larger meals, making it a fantastic addition to our kitchen.
If you love this recipe – You might also love my air frying cookbook too!
The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two is designed to make air frying fast, easy, and enjoyable. Most recipes can be completed in 30 minutes or less, focusing on simple preparation and minimal cleanup. This cookbook also includes valuable nutritional information, clear serving size descriptions, and a variety of recipes tailored for vegetarians, vegans, and those following a gluten-free diet. There’s so much to savor and explore within its pages, making healthy cooking accessible and delicious.
The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two
Perfectly Portioned Recipes for Healthier Fried Favorites
ORDER THE BOOK HERE
If you love this easy air fryer fried pickle recipe, you’re going to love these other air fryer snacks and dishes too. Click each link below to discover the simple, printable recipe and expand your air frying repertoire!
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More Delicious Air Fried Dishes to Enjoy
Expand your air frying culinary horizons with these other fantastic air-fried recipes that are sure to become family favorites. From crispy snacks to flavorful main dishes, the air fryer makes healthy and delicious cooking easier than ever!
Air Fryer Pizza Rolls: A perfect, mess-free way to get crispy pizza rolls.
Pretzel Dogs: Enjoy homemade pretzel dogs with a golden-brown finish.
Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor.
Air Fryer Garlic Parm Chicken Wings: Indulge in super crispy wings coated in a savory garlic parmesan sauce.
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Air Fryer Fried Pickles
Ingredients
- 2 cups dill pickle slices
- 1 cup ground pork rinds – pork rind crumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 ½ tbsp coconut flour
- cooking oil in a spray bottle
- Optional: Ranch for dipping or your favorite sauce and dried parsley for garnish.
Instructions
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Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
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Add the pork rinds to a large ziploc bag and use a rolling pin to crush them or another object with some weight.
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Pour the crumbs into a small bowl and mix with the paprika, garlic powder, and ground black pepper.
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Using a paper towel, pat dry the excess moisture off of the pickle slices and add them to a large bowl.
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Add the coconut flour and toss to evenly coat the pickles.
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Whisk the egg in a separate small bowl.
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Using tongs, dredge the pickle slices in the egg wash in batches.
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Allow the excess egg wash to drip off and then press them into the pork rind mixture.
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Transfer to a plate and repeat until all of the pickles have been coated.
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Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in small batches. First, spritz the cooking trays or basket with cooking oil – very lightly.
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Arrange the pickles in a single layer. Air fry for 10-12 minutes.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, ranch is a great option!
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Sprinkle some dried parsley on your dipping sauce as garnish (optional).
Notes
Equipment
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Air Fryer
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Rolling Pin
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Large ziploc bag
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Tongs
Nutrition
Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.