Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cod with Zucchini and Peppers

This Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cod is a fast, flavorful dinner that supports steady blood sugar and fits perfectly into air fryer meals keto eaters love. Crisp, golden cod sits over roasted zucchini and sweet red peppers, delivering satisfying protein and fiber with very low net carbs. It is a bright, clean dish that proves you do not need heavy breading or sugar to make seafood shine. If you are building a diabetes friendly rotation, this recipe is a standout. Lean cod provides high quality protein without excess saturated fat, which can support heart health for people managing diabetes. Almond flour and Parmesan create a savory crust that adds crunch and healthy fats, while zucchini and bell peppers supply potassium and antioxidants with minimal impact on blood sugar. Each serving delivers about 25 grams of protein and only 5 grams of net carbs, which can help reduce post meal glucose spikes. Those benefits make it a great companion to the principles behind keto air fryer bacon breakfasts and other low glycemic favorites. Compared with traditional breaded fish, this version avoids refined flour and added sugars. The balance of protein and fat promotes satiety and helps blunt glucose responses. If you enjoy exploring variety, check out related ideas like keto air fryer salmon, keto air fryer ribeye for special occasions, and our air fryer beef short ribs low carb recipe collection for weekend meal prep. Keeping your menu varied helps you stay on track without boredom. For best results, pat the cod very dry, then coat with an almond flour and Parmesan mixture so it crispes in the air fryer. Preheat your unit and allow space between pieces to ensure hot air can circulate. A [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) makes it easy to cook fish and vegetables side by side. Use an [instant read thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to pull the fish the moment it hits 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit for moist, flaky fillets. Serve with lemon wedges and a simple arugula salad or creamy cauliflower mash to keep carbs low. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat nicely in the air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes. For more low carb inspiration, browse [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics) or try our weeknight favorite linked from the seafood index. If you are planning a brunch spread, pair this cod with a side of keto air fryer bacon to round out the plate without spiking carbs. ## Tools Used Silicone liners for high protein air fryer meals are a lifesaver with flaky fish like cod. The parmesan crust tends to stick to metal baskets, but a silicone liner releases it cleanly every time. Explore more options in our [essential air fryer accessories guide](/learn/air-fryer-accessories-essential-kit).

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

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets, 4 ounces each (total 1 pound), patted very dry
• 2 medium zucchini, about 400 grams, sliced into 1/2 inch half moons
• 1 medium red bell pepper, about 120 grams, sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1/4 cup finely ground almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. Line the basket with a perforated parchment sheet if desired.
2. Toss zucchini and bell pepper with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Spread in a single layer in the preheated basket and air fry for 6 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway.
3. Meanwhile, in a shallow bowl combine almond flour, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, lemon zest, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
4. Pat cod fillets very dry. Brush with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, then press the top side of each fillet into the almond Parmesan mixture to coat.
5. Open the air fryer and push vegetables to the sides to make space for the fish. Place cod fillets, crusted side up, in the basket without overlapping.
6. Air fry at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes, until the fish flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 140 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not overcook.
7. Remove to plates, drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

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