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Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters: A Deliciously Light and Crispy Treat

Zucchini fritters are a delightful way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they make a perfect snack or side dish. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that satisfying crunch without the excess oil that traditional frying demands. This is where flavour meets health effortlessly, making air fryer zucchini fritters an excellent addition to any meal.

The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for a good reason. They utilize convection heating to circulate hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy finish similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil. This not only makes your fritters healthier but also reduces cooking time, making it a convenient option for busy households. Moreover, air frying cuts down on the mess often associated with frying, allowing you to enjoy your delicious creations without an excess of clean-up.

Ingredients

For these scrumptious air fryer zucchini fritters, you will need:

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• ½ teaspoon salt (for draining zucchini)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour, if preferred)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavour)
• 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or chives)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, then sprinkle with salt. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture in your fritters. After the time has elapsed, squeeze the zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, eggs, Parmesan cheese (if using), fresh herbs, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be slightly thick but still hold a shape when formed into fritters.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

While you prepare the fritters, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). This step helps to ensure that your fritters cook evenly and achieve a lovely crispness.

Step 4: Form the Fritters

Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a patty about 1 cm thick. Place it on a plate or cutting board. Repeat this process until all the mixture is formed into fritters.

Step 5: Cook in the Air Fryer

Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Then, carefully place the fritters in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. You may need to cook in batches. Lightly brush or spray the tops of the fritters with olive oil before cooking.

Cook the fritters for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the fritters from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These zucchini fritters are delicious on their own or can be accompanied by a dollop of Greek yoghurt, sour cream, or your favourite dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer zucchini fritters are not only a fantastic way to enjoy a vegetable that’s often underappreciated, but they’re also a quick and easy recipe that can be customised to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique version. Whether you serve them as a snack, a side dish, or even as part of a vegetarian main course, these fritters are sure to be a hit at your dining table. Enjoy the deliciousness while keeping your meals light and healthy!