Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters: A Crispy, Healthy Snack
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If you’re looking for a simple, tasty, and healthy snack or side dish, air fryer zucchini fritters are the perfect choice. These fritters are crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside, and they’re a breeze to make.
With just a few ingredients like zucchini, egg, flour, and your favorite seasonings, you can whip up a batch of these delicious fritters in no time. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Stick around to discover some helpful tips, variations, and storage instructions to make sure your fritters come out perfect every time.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
To make air fryer zucchini fritters, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Zucchini: 2-3 medium zucchinis, shredded.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to help draw out moisture.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs for binding.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup for texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup for flavor.
You can use some substitutes if needed. Here are some ideas:
- Zucchini: Use yellow squash if zucchini isn’t available.
- Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt can work as well.
- Eggs: Choose flax eggs if you’re vegan. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Parmesan Cheese: Try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
Other optional ingredients:
- Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a gooey texture.
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon for extra flavor.
- Olive Oil Spray: To prevent sticking in the air fryer.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and find substitutions that suit your taste and dietary needs.
Instructions
Grate the Zucchini
Use a grater to shred 2 or 3 medium zucchini.Remove Excess Water
Mix the grated zucchini with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Afterward, drain the water using a strong paper towel or clean kitchen towel.Prepare the Mixture
In a bowl, whisk 2 eggs.
Add the shredded zucchini, 1 cup of panko bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of grated parmesan, and 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Mix everything well.Form the Fritters
Shape the mixture into small patties.
If needed, lightly coat your hands with oil to prevent sticking.Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.Cook the Fritters
Lightly brush the tops of the fritters with a bit of avocado oil.
Place the fritters in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 9 minutes, then flip them and cook for another 8-9 minutes until golden brown.Cool and Serve
Once done, transfer the fritters to a cooling rack and let them cool off for about 5 minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- To reheat, cook in the air fryer at 370°F (190°C) for 2-4 minutes.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Tips:
- Drain the zucchini well. After grating, add salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. Use a towel to squeeze out all excess water. This helps make the fritters crispy.
- Use parchment paper. Lining the air fryer basket can make cleanup easier.
- Keep fritters spaced. Ensure there’s space between each fritter to allow for even cooking.
Tricks:
- Preheat your air fryer. This ensures even cooking from the start.
- Use a light coating of oil. Brushing fritters with a bit of oil can enhance crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Reheat at 370°F for 2-4 minutes in the air fryer.
- Freezer: Place cooked fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Adding Cheese: Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the batter for a cheesy twist. You could also sprinkle grated cheese on top before air frying.
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can be mixed into the batter. This adds freshness and flavor.
Dip It: Serve your zucchini fritters with different dips. Try sour cream, tzatziki, or even marinara sauce. Each dip brings a unique taste.
Breakfast Option: Top with a poached egg and a sprinkle of black pepper. This makes for a hearty breakfast.
Sweet Treat: Add a bit of grated carrot and a touch of honey to the mixture. Pair these sweet fritters with a yogurt dip.
Grain-Free Version: Replace regular flour with almond flour or coconut flour if you’re avoiding grains. This keeps the fritters gluten-free.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder or finely chopped cooked chicken to the mix. This can make the fritters more filling.
Veggie Mix: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the batter. This adds more texture and flavor.
Crunch Upgrade: For extra crunch, coat the fritters in breadcrumbs before air frying. This gives a crispy outer layer.
Serving Ideas: These fritters are great as a side dish, an appetizer, or as a light meal. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve them in a sandwich.
Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the extras. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer.
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.