Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

These crispy air fryer zucchini fritters have quickly become my favorite way to use up summer zucchini. They deliver everything you want in a fritter—crunch on the outside, tender inside, and a satisfying savory flavor—with just a fraction of the oil. Whether you need a party snack, lunch side, or a sneaky way to pack extra vegetables onto the table, this recipe has you covered.

I first whipped these up after a neighbor dropped off a basket of backyard zucchini. Now even my kids ask for “those crunchy green things” again and again.

Ingredients

• Zucchini: Choose firm zucchini with bright skin about 6 to 8 inches long for the freshest flavor. Shredded to yield about two cups gives just the right amount of moisture and texture
• Egg: Acts as the binder so your fritters stay together and gain richness. Look for local or pasture raised eggs when possible
• Salt: Brings out the natural flavors in the zucchini and other spices. Use kosher or sea salt for best results
• Baking powder: A tiny bit helps the fritters puff and crisp up so they do not feel dense
• Garlic powder: Brings mild savoriness throughout. Check that your garlic powder is fresh for the best flavor
• Onion powder: Adds a gentle onion aroma without overpowering the other ingredients
• Italian seasoning: This blend brings a herby depth and complements the zucchini. Use a high quality mix with oregano basil and thyme
• Chili flakes: Just a pinch for background warmth. Skip or adjust for your preferred spice level
• All purpose flour: Combines with the egg and zucchini to form the batter. Sifted flour yields the lightest texture
• Oil or cooking spray: Just enough to help the fritters crisp and brown in the air fryer. Olive or avocado oil sprays work beautifully

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini:

Shred zucchini on the large holes of a box grater or use a food processor. Pile the shredded zucchini into a clean kitchen towel cheesecloth or several sturdy paper towels. Wrap and squeeze firmly over the sink until most liquid is released. Removing excess water is essential for crispy fritters.

Mix the Batter:

Place drained shredded zucchini in a large bowl. Add egg salt baking powder garlic powder onion powder Italian seasoning chili flakes and flour. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until a thick batter forms and everything is evenly distributed.

Shape the Fritters:

Use clean hands or a spoon to form the batter into small patties. Aim for about nine to ten fritters. Press them lightly so they hold together but are not too dense.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it preheat for two to five minutes so the first batch cooks evenly and gets crisp.

Arrange and Cook:

Line the air fryer basket with foil or parchment for easy clean up if you like. Place fritters in a single layer with some space between each one. Brush or mist the tops with a little oil. Cook for ten minutes.

Flip and Finish:

Flip each fritter gently with a spatula. Spray or brush again with oil for extra crunch if desired. Air fry for five more minutes until golden and crisp.

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer hot fritters to a plate. Serve plain or pair with a cool creamy dip like ranch tzatziki or spiced yogurt. Enjoy immediately for the best crunch.

The first time I made these I learned that squeezing the zucchini is crucial. If you rush that step the fritters can turn soggy so do not skip it. My favorite thing about these is how the Italian seasoning gives them a taste that reminds me of my grandmother’s summer kitchen when everything was bursting with herbs.

Storage Tips

Let leftover fritters cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container or sealable bag and refrigerate for up to five days. To freeze arrange the fritters in a single layer on a sheet until solid then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to two months. Always reheat in the air fryer for the best crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap all purpose flour for chickpea flour for a gluten free version. Try adding shredded carrot or sweet potato for a color and flavor twist. Replace Italian seasoning with fresh chopped herbs or a blend like zaatar for a new flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a bowl of ranch yogurt sauce or classic tzatziki. Top with crumbled feta or parmesan while still hot for extra flavor. These pair well with summer salads grilled meats or roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

Cultural and Historical Context

Zucchini fritters are found in kitchens around the world from Greek courgette keftedes to Turkish mucver. Air frying is a modern adaptation keeping the traditional flavor but cutting down on oil and mess.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or dill in summer for freshness Toss in some corn kernels for late summer sweetness Use a sprinkle of smoked paprika in fall for a hint of warmth

Success Stories

Friends who tried this recipe for the first time at my house have all requested the instructions. One neighbor now makes them every time her garden gets unruly with zucchini. Kids usually come back for seconds especially when served warm and crispy right from the basket.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze place cooked fritters in a single layer until solid. Transfer to bags for easy storage. To serve just reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for three to four minutes until warm and crispy.

Once you try these air fryer zucchini fritters you will want to make them all summer long. Enjoy them hot for the best crisp and share with friends or family for a delicious veggie-packed treat.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do you keep fritters crispy in the air fryer?

Press out as much moisture as possible from the shredded zucchini before mixing. This ensures maximum crispiness and prevents soggy fritters.

→ Can I prepare zucchini fritters ahead of time?

Yes, form the patties and refrigerate them for a few hours before air frying. Cooked fritters can be reheated in the air fryer for best texture.

→ What dipping sauces go well with zucchini fritters?

Popular options include creamy ranch, tzatziki, spicy Greek yogurt, or sour cream. Freshly chopped herbs also pair well.

→ Which seasonings work best?

Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of chili flakes add robust flavor. Adjust to taste or try fresh herbs.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Let fritters cool fully, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

→ How do I reheat fritters for best results?

Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture, or use an oven or skillet rather than the microwave.