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Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters – Air Fryer Baked

As the summer months roll in, so does an abundance of fresh courgettes (or zucchinis, for our American friends). These versatile green vegetables are not only healthy but also incredibly delicious when prepared correctly. One of the best ways to enjoy courgettes is in the form of crispy fritters. With the increasing popularity of air fryers, making delectable, guilt-free courgette fritters has never been easier. Here’s how to whip up a batch of crispy and easy zucchini fritters that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 2 medium courgettes, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (about 120g) plain flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup (about 30g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 spring onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), chopped (optional)
• Black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Courgettes

Start by grating the courgettes using the large holes of a grater. Place the grated courgettes in a clean tea towel or cheesecloth, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture, ensuring your fritters are crisp and not soggy.

2. Mix the Ingredients

After the courgettes have rested, wring them out in the towel to remove as much liquid as possible. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained courgettes with the flour, egg, baking powder, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped spring onions, minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a good pinch of black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

While preparing the fritter mixture, preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the fritters cook evenly and achieve that coveted crispy texture.

4. Shape the Fritters

Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and form them into patties, about 1 cm thick. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking. Lightly spray the patties with olive oil on both sides. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispiness.

5. Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the fritters in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry the fritters at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the fritters from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or as a light snack. Pair them with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or tzatziki for added flavour.

Tips for Perfect Fritters

• Add Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding different vegetables such as grated carrots or sweet corn. You can also explore various herbs and spices to customise the taste.
• Storage: Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: For a gluten-free version, substitute the plain flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

These crispy and easy zucchini fritters made in the air fryer are not only simple to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy courgettes. Whether as a snack, side dish, or even a light main course, they are sure to become a favourite in your household. So why not grab those courgettes and give this recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed!