These Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters deliver golden, crispy exteriors with tender, flavorful centers, making them an irresistible snack or side.
Packed with fiber from fresh zucchini and protein from eggs and Parmesan, they’re light yet satisfying.
Low in saturated fat and easy to prepare, they’re perfect for quick weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or kid-friendly appetizers without the extra oil.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- Box grater or food processor with grater attachment
- Large colander
- Air fryer (minimum 3-4 quart capacity)
- Spoon or spatula
- Parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 pound zucchini about 1 large or 2-3 medium
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives plus extra for garnish
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash your zucchini thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off both ends with a sharp knife. Using the large holes of a box grater—or the grater attachment of your food processor—shred the zucchini evenly. You should aim for long, thin strands that will cook quickly and hold together in the fritters.
- Sweat the Zucchini: Place the shredded zucchini into a large colander set over the sink. Sprinkle evenly with ¾ teaspoon of salt and toss gently to combine. Let the zucchini sit for 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, which is essential to achieving fritters that are crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Remove Excess Moisture: After the zucchini has released water, grab handfuls and squeeze them firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible. Alternatively, you can place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring it out thoroughly. You should end up with about 1.5 to 2 cups of dry, shredded zucchini. Removing excess moisture prevents soggy fritters.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried zucchini with 1 lightly beaten egg, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together but still be slightly loose. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters tender.
- Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper if you prefer to prevent sticking. This step ensures the fritters cook evenly and develop a crisp, golden exterior.
- Form the Fritters: Using a spoon, scoop out rounded tablespoonfuls of the zucchini mixture. Place them in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each fritter to allow hot air to circulate. Flatten each mound gently with the back of the spoon to form a compact patty about ½-inch thick. Depending on the size of your air fryer, cook 2-4 fritters at a time.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the fritters at 370°F (188°C) for 10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, carefully flip each fritter using a spatula to ensure even browning on both sides. The fritters are done when they are golden brown, crisp on the outside, and tender inside.
- Serve Warm: Remove the cooked fritters from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Serve immediately while warm with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives for garnish. The fritters are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes if needed.
Notes
- Always squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to ensure crispy fritters.
- Freshly grated Parmesan adds flavor and helps bind the fritters.
- Flatten fritters slightly before cooking to promote even browning.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; leave space for hot air to circulate.
- For dairy-free fritters, omit Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- Fritters can be reheated in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Experiment with herbs like dill, parsley, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Use a kitchen towel or cheesecloth to wring zucchini if you want minimal moisture.
Chef’s Secrets To Perfect Fritters
The secret to incredibly crispy fritters lies in balancing moisture and binding ingredients.
Using a combination of egg, flour, and Parmesan ensures the fritters hold together without becoming dense.
For extra flavor, try adding herbs like dill, parsley, or a pinch of garlic powder.
Preheating your air fryer gives an immediate burst of heat, helping to form a golden crust while keeping the center tender.
Additionally, flipping halfway through cooking ensures even color and crunch on both sides.
Serving Suggestions For Every Occasion
These zucchini fritters are versatile and can be served in many ways.
Pair them with a simple dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a light, tangy contrast.
They also make a perfect side dish for grilled chicken or fish, or a hearty addition to a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs.
For a kid-friendly option, serve with a mild tomato dipping sauce or drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle of Parmesan.
Storage Tips For Freshness
Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
To maintain crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 370°F for 2-4 minutes instead of using a microwave.
For long-term storage, freeze cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Proper storage preserves texture, flavor, and nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these fritters dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The fritters will still hold together, though the flavor will be slightly milder.
2. Do I have to use an air fryer?
No, but an air fryer provides the perfect crispy texture with minimal oil. You can pan-fry them in a nonstick skillet with a small amount of oil if preferred, adjusting cooking time until golden brown.
3. How can I prevent soggy fritters?
The key is removing excess water from the zucchini. Squeeze tightly with a towel or cheesecloth, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so that steam can escape.
4. Can I prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before cooking. Avoid sitting too long, as excess moisture may accumulate, requiring an additional squeeze before cooking.
5. What can I serve these fritters with?
They pair beautifully with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a light herb dipping sauce. They also complement grilled meats, fresh salads, or can be added to a brunch spread for variety and color.
