Crispy, High-Protein & No Frying Required
Zucchini fritters are a classic way to turn a simple vegetable into something comforting and satisfying, but traditional versions often rely on pan-frying and extra oil. This Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters recipe offers a lighter, more dependable approach while still delivering the crisp texture people love. By using hot circulating air instead of shallow frying, the fritters cook evenly, develop a golden exterior, and stay tender inside without becoming greasy.
This version focuses on technique rather than shortcuts. Properly draining the zucchini, keeping the batter balanced, and using the right air-fryer temperature all work together to prevent sogginess. The result is a fritter that holds its shape, reheats well, and fits easily into everyday cooking.
These fritters work well as a light lunch, a vegetarian dinner option, or a snack served with a simple dip. They’re practical, consistent, and designed for real kitchens—not just for one perfect batch.
Why You’ll Love This Version
- Air fryer method = crispy outside without pan-frying
- Higher protein than classic fritters
- No greasy cleanup or splatter
- Holds texture better after reheating
- Pinterest-trending cooking style (air fryer + protein boost)
Ingredients
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt (for draining moisture)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Whipped Lemon Cottage Cheese Dip
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt, to taste
Equipment
- Box grater
- Colander
- Clean kitchen towel
- Mixing bowl
- Air fryer
- Blender or food processor
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
Before You Begin:
Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
1. Remove Excess Moisture
Grate the zucchini and toss with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze firmly using a towel until very dry. This step helps improve crispness.
2. Mix the Batter
In a bowl, combine zucchini, egg, flour, Parmesan, garlic, and pepper. Mix just until combined — the mixture should be thick but scoopable.
3. Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the basket with oil. Scoop 2 tablespoons of mixture per fritter and gently flatten. Spray tops lightly.
Air fry for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the fritters are golden, firm, and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on air fryer model and fritter thickness.
4. Make the Dip
Blend cottage cheese, lemon juice, zest, garlic, and salt until smooth and creamy. Chill until ready to serve.
How to Serve
- As a light lunch with a green salad
- As a high-protein vegetarian dinner
- In wraps or bowls with grains
- As an appetizer with extra dip
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooked fritters up to 2 months
- Reheat in the air fryer at about 350°F for 3–4 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating time may vary.
- Avoid microwaving — it softens the exterior
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Squeeze the zucchini until very dry to prevent steaming
- Use medium-sized fritters so they cook through evenly
- Lightly spray with oil for even browning
- Flip halfway through cooking for uniform crispness
- Serve immediately for the best texture
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not squeezing zucchini dry enough
- Overloading the air fryer basket
- Skipping the flip halfway through
- Making fritters too thick
- Overmixing the batter
FAQ
Why do zucchini fritters turn out soggy?
Excess moisture is the most common cause. Zucchini contains a lot of water, and if it isn’t salted and squeezed thoroughly, that moisture releases during cooking and prevents browning. Dry zucchini is essential for crisp fritters.
Do I need to peel the zucchini first?
No. The skin is tender and adds structure and color. Just wash the zucchini well before grating.
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes. You can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crisp as the air-fryer version but will still hold together well.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s not recommended. The zucchini will continue to release moisture as it sits, which can affect texture. For best results, mix and cook right away.
What flour works best?
All-purpose flour provides the most reliable structure. Gluten-free flour blends also work, but avoid coconut flour, which absorbs too much moisture.
Why are my fritters falling apart?
This usually means there isn’t enough binding. Make sure you include the egg and don’t reduce the flour too much.
Can I add cheese or herbs?
Yes. Parmesan, feta, parsley, dill, or scallions can be added without affecting the cooking time.
How do I reheat leftovers without losing crispness?
Reheat in the air fryer or oven. Microwaving softens the exterior and is best avoided.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters with Whipped Lemon Cottage Cheese Dip are a modern, Pinterest-ready upgrade to the classic fritter. They’re crisp without frying, higher in protein, and easier to reheat — making them practical for real life, not just one-time cooking. If you want a zucchini recipe that feels current, reliable, and lighter without sacrificing texture, this version delivers consistent results.
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients
Method
- Before You Begin: Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
- Grate the zucchini and toss with ½ teaspoon salt. Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze the zucchini firmly using a clean towel until very dry.
- In a bowl, combine zucchini, egg, flour, Parmesan, garlic, and pepper. Mix just until combined.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the basket with oil. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter and gently flatten.
- Spray the tops lightly with oil.
- Air fry for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the fritters are golden, firm, and cooked through. Adjust timing as needed based on your air fryer type and fritter thickness.
- Serve immediately.
About the Author
Isaac shares easy, family-friendly recipes made with simple ingredients, focusing on clear instructions and reliable results for everyday home cooking.
