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Air Fryer Zucchini Carrot Fritters – Crispy, Light, and Easy

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Zucchini: 2 medium (about 1 pound), grated
  • Carrots: 2 medium, grated
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup (or almond flour or gluten-free blend)
  • Grated Parmesan: 1/4 cup (optional but tasty)
  • Green onions or chives: 2 tablespoons, finely sliced
  • Garlic: 1–2 cloves, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon (helps with lift)
  • Salt and pepper: To taste
  • Paprika or smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Dried oregano or dill: 1 teaspoon (optional)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil spray: For the air fryer basket and tops of fritters
  • For serving (optional): Greek yogurt, sour cream, tzatziki, or a squeeze of lemon

Instructions

  • Prep the vegetables: Grate zucchini and carrots on the large holes of a box grater. Place the zucchini in a colander set over a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  • Squeeze out excess water: Wrap the salted zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze firmly. Removing moisture is key to crisp fritters. Aim to get out as much liquid as you can.
  • Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk eggs. Add grated carrots, squeezed zucchini, green onions, garlic, Parmesan, flour, baking powder, paprika, herbs (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be thick and scoopable, not runny.
  • Adjust consistency: If the batter seems too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it holds together. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk or an extra tablespoon of beaten egg.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Shape the fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per fritter. Gently flatten into 1/2-inch thick rounds with your hands or the back of a spoon.
  • Air fry in batches: Arrange fritters in a single layer with a little space between each. Lightly mist the tops with oil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook 5–7 minutes more. They’re done when crisp and golden with a firm center.
  • Keep them warm: Transfer finished fritters to a wire rack or a low oven (200°F/93°C) while you finish the rest. This keeps the bottoms from steaming and going soft.
  • Serve: Add a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki and a squeeze of lemon. Sprinkle extra herbs or flaky salt if you like.