Air Fryer Lemon Herb Cod with Zucchini and Peppers

Bright, clean flavors make this air fryer lemon herb cod a standout for anyone managing blood sugar. The lean protein and colorful vegetables create a satisfying plate with very few carbs, perfect for keeping glucose steady without sacrificing taste or texture. Many readers love classics like keto air fryer bacon, keto air fryer salmon, and keto air fryer ribeye. This cod recipe delivers the same easy convenience with a lighter profile that suits diabetic goals. Cod is naturally low in fat and carb free, which makes it a smart anchor for air fryer meals keto enthusiasts rely on. Pairing it with zucchini and red bell pepper adds fiber and micronutrients while keeping net carbs in check. The lemon garlic olive oil blend provides heart friendly fats that slow digestion and can help with satiety, a helpful strategy for smoother post meal glucose trends. Each serving lands under ten grams of net carbs with strong protein support for muscle and metabolic health. The combination of lean seafood and non starchy vegetables keeps the glycemic load low. If you enjoy an air fryer beef short ribs low carb recipe for a weekend treat, balance the week with this gentle, nutrient dense cod. It proves you can have bold flavor and a calm glucose response in the same meal. For best texture, pat the fish dry and season generously. Preheat the air fryer so the exterior sets quickly and the fillets flake cleanly. A light brush of olive oil prevents sticking and helps the spices bloom. Use a dual basket air fryer for effortless separation of fish and vegetables so both finish perfectly. See my favorite option here [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). For more fundamentals and swaps, visit [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics). Serve the cod over warm zucchini and peppers, then finish with parsley and a final squeeze of lemon. Add a simple side of sauteed spinach or a few slices of avocado if you want more healthy fats without adding carbs. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the air fryer to preserve moisture and the crisp edges on the vegetables. For variety, try shrimp or scallops with the same seasoning, or browse my lean pork option here [Crispy Pork Tenderloin Bites](/recipes/air-fryer-pork-tenderloin-bites).

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 12 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• Cod fillets, 4 pieces at 5 oz each
• Zucchini, 3 cups sliced into half moons
• Red bell pepper, 1 cup thinly sliced
• Extra virgin olive oil, 3 tbsp
• Fresh lemon juice, 2 tbsp
• Lemon zest, 1 tsp
• Garlic, 3 cloves minced
• Fresh parsley, 2 tbsp chopped
• Paprika, 1 tsp
• Sea salt, 1.25 tsp
• Black pepper, 1 tsp
• Unsalted butter, 1 tbsp melted, optional
• Crushed red pepper flakes, 0.25 tsp, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 F. Pat the cod dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Brush a thin layer over both sides of the cod.
3. Toss zucchini and bell pepper with a drizzle of the seasoned oil blend. Use enough to coat lightly without pooling.
4. Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Place the cod on top or use a second basket if available.
5. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes until the cod flakes easily and reaches 145 F, and the vegetables are tender with lightly crisp edges.
6. Transfer to plates. Sprinkle with parsley and drizzle melted butter if using. Serve with extra lemon wedges if desired.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer