When zucchini is in season, it’s everywhere—at the market, in CSA boxes, even overflowing from neighbors’ gardens. I like to make the most of this abundance with recipes that let zucchini’s natural freshness stand out. Air-Fryer Zucchini Fritters are one of my favorite ways to use up a couple of medium zucchinis in a way that feels fresh, light, and satisfying. Zucchini’s mild flavor and high moisture content can be tricky, but in this recipe, it’s exactly what gives the fritters their tender bite inside while the air fryer delivers a crisp, golden crust without deep frying.
What I appreciate about this recipe is how it turns a simple, often underappreciated vegetable into something crave-worthy. The air fryer makes the process efficient and keeps the fritters from getting greasy, so you get a snack or side that’s both lighter and faster than pan-frying. I also like that the ingredient list is short and practical—whole-wheat flour for a bit of extra fiber, Parmesan for savory depth, and just enough seasoning to boost the zucchini’s flavor without overpowering it. If you’re looking for a way to use up zucchini that isn’t just another loaf of bread, this is a practical option that works for lunch, a light dinner, or even a snack platter.
These fritters are also flexible. You can prep them ahead, serve them warm or at room temperature, and they’re easy to dress up with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh mint. I’ve found that squeezing out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini is the key to getting fritters that hold together and crisp up nicely. If you’re new to air frying, this recipe is a great entry point. It’s forgiving, quick, and makes the most of peak-season produce. Give it a try next time you’re staring at a pile of zucchini and want something a little different.
Air-Fryer Zucchini Fritters, Made Easy
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The Required Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/3 cup whole-wheat flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Cooking spray for the air fryer
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
The Quick and Easy Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Spray the basket generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Grate the zucchinis using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible over the sink. This step is crucial for fritters that hold together and crisp up.
- Transfer the drained zucchini to a medium bowl. Add the beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, whole-wheat flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. The mixture should be moist but not runny.
- Shape the mixture into eight patties, each about 3 inches wide. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches so the fritters aren’t crowded.
- Cook for 7 minutes, then carefully flip each fritter and cook for another 7 minutes, or until both sides are golden and crispy. Don’t skip the flip—this ensures even browning.
- Serve warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh mint for a refreshing finish.
Ingredient Spotlight: Understanding Swaps and Their Effects
Zucchini is the star, but you can swap in yellow squash with similar results. If you need a gluten-free option, use oat flour or a gluten-free blend—just note that texture may be slightly softer. Parmesan adds a salty, umami punch, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Whole-wheat flour gives a bit more structure and nutrition than all-purpose, but either works. Be cautious with egg substitutes; some may not bind as well, so consider adding a tablespoon of ground flaxseed if needed.
How to Garnish, Plate, and Present Your Dish
For the best presentation, serve the fritters stacked or fanned out on a platter. Add a generous spoonful of sour cream on the side or directly on each fritter, then sprinkle with freshly chopped mint. For extra color, scatter a few thinly sliced radishes or a sprinkle of paprika. Serve immediately for maximum crispness, or keep warm in a low oven if making ahead. These fritters pair well with a simple green salad or as part of a mezze spread.
Keeping Your Air-Fryer Zucchini Fritters Fresh: Best Storage Methods
Let the fritters cool completely before storing. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the fritters soggy. You can also freeze cooked fritters for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for best results.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid for This Recipe
Don’t skip squeezing out the zucchini—excess moisture will cause soggy fritters that fall apart. Overcrowding the air fryer basket prevents even cooking and crisping, so cook in batches if needed. Make sure to flip the fritters halfway through; otherwise, one side may brown more than the other. Using too much flour can make the fritters dense, while too little may cause them to break. Stick to the recommended amounts for best texture.
Seasonal & Flavor Variations for Your Air-Fryer Zucchini Fritters
In spring and summer, add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley for extra brightness. For a spicier version, mix in a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño. You can also add a handful of corn kernels or finely diced bell pepper for color and sweetness. In cooler months, try swapping the mint for chives or thyme. Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for new flavor profiles.
Before You Try It: FAQs
Why do my fritters sometimes fall apart in the air fryer?
Fritters usually fall apart if there’s too much moisture left in the zucchini or not enough binding from the egg and flour. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated zucchini and stick to the recommended amounts of egg and flour. If your mixture still seems loose, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time and cook later?
You can prepare the zucchini mixture up to 2 hours in advance, but keep in mind that zucchini will continue to release moisture as it sits. Drain off any extra liquid and give the mixture a quick stir before shaping and air frying. For best results, shape and cook the fritters soon after mixing.
What’s the best way to get uniform fritters?
For even fritters, use a 1/4 cup measuring cup or an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture. Shape each portion into a patty about 3 inches wide and flatten gently. Uniform size ensures even cooking and browning in the air fryer. Don’t make them too thick, or the centers may not cook through.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you’ll need to cook the fritters in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Keep finished fritters warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack until ready to serve. This helps maintain their crispness while you finish the rest.
Is it possible to make these fritters without cheese?
You can omit the Parmesan cheese, but the fritters will lose some flavor and structure. To compensate, add 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for a savory note, and consider increasing the flour slightly to help bind the mixture. Without cheese, check the seasoning and adjust salt as needed.
How do I know when the fritters are fully cooked?
The fritters are done when both sides are golden brown and crisp, and the centers feel set when gently pressed. If the fritters feel soft or wet in the middle, give them another 2–3 minutes in the air fryer. Don’t rely solely on color—texture is key for doneness.
Air-Fryer Zucchini Fritters
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
Zucchini Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 large egg beaten lightly
- 1/3 cup whole-wheat flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Cooking spray for the air fryer
Serving:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint chopped
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the air fryer to 375°F for around 10 minutes. Generously coat the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
For Zucchini Fritters:
- Grate the zucchinis using the large holes of a box grater over a clean kitchen towel. Gather the towel around the zucchini and squeeze out as much water as you can, which will help the fritters keep their shape.
- In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with the beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, whole-wheat flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine.
- Form the mixture into eight patties, each around 3 inches wide. Lightly coat the tops with cooking spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking them in batches if necessary.
- Cook the fritters for 7 minutes, then carefully turn them over and cook for an additional 7 minutes or until they're golden brown and crispy all around.
- Serve the fritters warm topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh mint for a revitalizing touch. Savor the crisp and tender zucchini fritters!
