These crispy, golden bites are an easy way to turn a summer zucchini haul into a weeknight favorite. Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters are light, quick to make, and perfect for dipping or packing for lunches. Try them alongside a sweet snack like air fryer apple fritters for a fun contrast.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
- Crisp outside with tender, cheesy inside for great texture.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Minimal oil thanks to the air fryer, but still very flavorful.
- Kid-friendly and easy to meal prep or reheat.
- Great for using up garden zucchini and reducing waste.
Ingredients Needed
- Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- Seasoning & Salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Binders & Cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- Herbs (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
- For Air Frying
- Cooking spray or oil for air frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grate the zucchinis and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; let sit 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Squeeze or press the zucchini in a clean towel or fine sieve to remove excess liquid.
- In a large bowl, stir together the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and herbs until combined.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and gently shape into fritters.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, arrange fritters in a single layer without crowding, and spray tops lightly.
- Air fry about 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy; serve warm with your favorite dip.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
- Serve with a tangy yogurt-dill or lemon aioli for dipping.
- Top with a spoonful of marinara and shredded mozzarella for a heartier bite.
- Pair them with a crisp salad and roasted tomatoes for a light meal.
- Offer alongside sweet treats like air fryer apple fries for a family-friendly spread.
Tips for Success Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
- Thoroughly squeeze out zucchini moisture to prevent soggy fritters.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for even browning.
- Spray both basket and tops lightly to get a golden crust without deep frying.
- If mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon more flour at a time until manageable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Add 1/4 cup cooked corn or finely chopped bell pepper for sweetness and color.
- Make it spicy by stirring in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chopped jalapeño.
- For a cheesy twist, swap Parmesan for shredded cheddar or add 2 tablespoons cream cheese.
- Try serving with crunchy veggie poppers like air fryer broccoli cheddar poppers for a snack board.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
These crispy, golden Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters are light and quick to make, perfect for dipping or packing for lunches.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
Seasoning & Salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binders & Cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
Herbs (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil optional
For Air Frying
- Cooking spray or oil for air frying
Instructions
Preparation
- Grate the zucchinis and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt; let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Squeeze or press the zucchini in a clean towel or fine sieve to remove excess liquid.
- In a large bowl, stir together the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and herbs until combined.
Cooking
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and gently shape into fritters.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, arrange fritters in a single layer without crowding, and spray tops lightly.
- Air fry for about 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy; serve warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
Thoroughly squeeze out zucchini moisture to prevent soggy fritters. Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for even browning. Spray both basket and tops lightly to get a golden crust without deep frying. If mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon more flour at a time until manageable. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer.