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Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

Quick, crispy, and veggie-packed fritters that are easy to make in an air fryer, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: American, Vegetarian
Calories: 100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated Grate and squeeze out excess moisture.
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko Use gluten-free if needed.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped scallions or onion
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Plus more to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder Optional.
  • Olive oil spray for the basket and tops For crisping.
  • Yogurt or sour cream for serving Optional.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Grate the zucchinis using the large side of a box grater into a bowl.
  2. Sprinkle the grated zucchini with a pinch of salt and let it sit for 5 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Grab handfuls of zucchini and squeeze over the sink or a clean towel until the shreds feel dry to the touch.
Mixing the batter
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, egg, breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, scallions, herbs, salt, pepper, and any spices. Stir until evenly moistened.
  2. Adjust the mixture if needed: if it looks too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a teaspoon of olive oil or a splash of milk.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
  2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket. Scoop 2 tablespoons of batter for each fritter and flatten into rounds about 1/2 inch thick, leaving space between them.
  3. Mist the tops with olive oil spray for extra crisping.
  4. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, then flip, spray again, and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until browned and crisp.
  5. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while hot and add a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Notes

Let fritters cool on a wire rack to avoid sogginess. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, place chilled fritters in a preheated air fryer at 360°F for 3 to 4 minutes, flipping once.