Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Cooking Method: Utilizing an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, resulting in a lighter yet still crispy fritter.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples and fresh zucchini, this recipe is both accessible and budget-friendly.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side, these fritters pair well with various dips and sauces.
Ingredients
- 2-3 medium zucchinis, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for brushing
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Afterward, use a clean kitchen towel or strong paper towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, beaten eggs, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Form the Fritters: Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Fritters: Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the fritters in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil. Air fry for 9 minutes, then carefully flip them and cook for an additional 8-9 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a cooling rack and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 10 fritters, depending on the size.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Fritters: Add extra shredded cheddar or feta cheese to the mixture for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to add a burst of freshness.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Place cooked and cooled fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat refrigerated or frozen fritters in the air fryer at 370°F (190°C) for 2-4 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs
How do I prevent the fritters from being soggy?
Ensuring that you thoroughly squeeze out the moisture from the shredded zucchini is key to achieving crispy fritters.
Can I bake these fritters instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are there gluten-free alternatives for this recipe?
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make the fritters gluten-free.
What dipping sauces pair well with zucchini fritters?
Tzatziki, sour cream, or a simple garlic aioli complement the flavors of the fritters nicely.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the fritters immediately after preparing the batter, as the mixture can become too watery if it sits for too long.
How can I make these fritters vegan?
Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and replace the cheeses with vegan alternatives or nutritional yeast.
What other vegetables can I add to the fritters?
Finely grated carrots or corn kernels can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
Why are my fritters falling apart?
This could be due to excess moisture or insufficient binding agents. Ensure the zucchini is well-drained and consider adding an extra egg or more breadcrumbs if needed.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini is recommended, as frozen zucchini may retain too much moisture, affecting the texture of the fritters.
How do I prevent the fritters from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly brushing or spraying the basket with oil before placing the fritters can
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters: A Crispy, Healthy Snack
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 10 fritters
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Air fryer zucchini fritters are a healthy, crispy snack or side dish made with fresh zucchini, savory cheeses, and herbs. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, these fritters are light, delicious, and easy to make without excessive oil.
Ingredients
- 2–3 medium zucchinis, shredded
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate zucchinis, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess liquid using a kitchen towel.
- Mix the Batter: Combine shredded zucchini, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Fritters: Shape 2 tablespoons of the mixture into small patties. Repeat until all batter is used.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Fritters: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place fritters in a single layer without touching. Spray the tops with oil. Cook for 9 minutes, flip, and cook an additional 8-9 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let fritters rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with a dipping sauce.
Notes
- Zucchini Moisture: Thoroughly squeeze out zucchini moisture for crispy fritters.
- Customization: Add jalapeños for spice or fresh herbs like dill for flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
