Zucchini fritters are a delicious and healthy snack that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. They are a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet, and when cooked in an air fryer, they become even more crispy and flavorful. In this article, we will provide you with a quick and easy recipe on how to make zucchini fritters in an air fryer.
Ingredients:
To make zucchini fritters in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– Olive oil spray
Step 1: Preparing the Zucchinis
The first step in making zucchini fritters is to prepare the zucchinis. Start by washing them thoroughly under running water. Then, using a grater, grate the zucchinis into a bowl. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander or sieve and squeeze out any excess moisture. This step is essential to prevent the fritters from turning soggy.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add them to the zucchini mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and you have a thick batter-like consistency.
Step 3: Shaping the Fritters
Now it’s time to shape the fritters. Take a spoonful of the zucchini mixture and shape it into a small patty or fritter using your hands. Repeat this process until you have used all the batter. It’s important to make sure the fritters are evenly shaped for even cooking in the air fryer.
Step 4: Using the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent the fritters from sticking. Place the shaped zucchini fritters in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fritters in batches.
Step 5: Cooking Time
Cook the zucchini fritters in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The fritters should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Serving
Once the zucchini fritters are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot as an appetizer, snack, or even as a side dish. You can enjoy them plain or serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara sauce or tzatziki.
Tips for Success:
– It’s important to squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated zucchini to avoid soggy fritters.
– You can add additional spices or herbs to the batter to enhance the flavor. Dill, parsley, or paprika are excellent options.
– Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leaving enough space between the fritters will allow them to cook evenly and become crispy.
– If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also pan-fry the fritters in a little oil until they are golden brown on both sides.
Final Thoughts
Making zucchini fritters in an air fryer is not only quick and easy but also results in a healthier version of this beloved snack. By using minimal oil and utilizing the hot air circulation in the air fryer, you can achieve a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. This recipe is a great way to use up any excess zucchini you may have and is a fantastic option for vegetarians and those looking for a lighter alternative. So, grab your air fryer, gather the ingredients, and enjoy these delicious zucchini fritters in no time!