Air Fryer Crispy Zucchini Fritters

Air Fryer Crispy Zucchini Fritters are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried fritters. With a perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior, these fritters make an excellent side dish or snack. Using the Air Fryer, you can achieve a satisfying crunch without the extra oil, making these fritters both light and flavorful. This comprehensive recipe will guide you through every step to ensure crispy, golden-brown fritters every time.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 lb or 450 g), grated
  • 1 tsp salt (for draining zucchini)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) finely chopped onion
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil for brushing

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini

  1. Grate the Zucchini: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the zucchinis. For best results, use medium to coarse grating to create the right texture for fritters.
  2. Drain Excess Moisture: Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Sprinkle with 1 tsp of salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. The salt helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchini.
  3. Squeeze Out Liquid: After 10 minutes, gather the towel or cloth and squeeze the grated zucchini firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy fritters, as excess moisture can lead to soggy fritters.

Step 2: Mixing the Fritter Batter

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, eggs, chopped parsley or dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  2. Check Consistency: The mixture should be thick enough to hold together when scooped. If it seems too wet, add a little more flour. If too dry, add a splash of milk or a bit more grated zucchini.

Step 3: Forming and Cooking the Fritters

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This helps ensure that the fritters cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture.
  2. Shape the Fritters: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the zucchini mixture and form it into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Gently flatten the patties with the back of the spoon to ensure they cook evenly.
  3. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly brush or spray the Air Fryer basket with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and promotes a golden-brown finish.
  4. Arrange the Fritters: Place the fritters in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook in batches to allow for proper air circulation.
  5. Air Fry the Fritters: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The fritters should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through on the inside.

Step 4: Serving and Storing

  1. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, remove the fritters from the Air Fryer and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh parsley or dill if desired.
  2. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the Air Fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Reheating Tips

  1. Reheating: To reheat, place the fritters back in the Air Fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. This will help them regain their crispy texture. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the fritters soggy.

Additional Tips

  • Zucchini Variations: You can add other grated vegetables like carrots or yellow squash for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Cheese Choices: Substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like feta or shredded mozzarella for different flavors.
  • Herb Options: Experiment with herbs such as basil, thyme, or cilantro to customize the flavor of your fritters.
  • Dipping Sauces: Serve the fritters with a variety of dipping sauces like tzatziki, ranch, or a spicy aioli for added taste.

Nutritional Information (per fritter, assuming 12 total)

  • Calories: 80
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg

Air Fryer Crispy Zucchini Fritters offer a light, crunchy snack or side dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. Using the Air Fryer, you can enjoy the crispy texture of fried fritters with less oil and hassle. Perfect for a healthy snack, appetizer, or accompaniment to any meal, these fritters are versatile and satisfying. Enjoy the delightful crunch and delicious taste with every bite!