Crispy zucchini fritters with lemon for freshness.

These Zucchini Fritters are a delightful, flavorful dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side. Grated zucchini is combined with flour, eggs, green onions, and garlic, then enhanced with lemon zest and juice for a refreshing twist. The fritters are pan-fried until golden and crispy, creating a satisfying texture. Serve them warm with a creamy dip, such as Greek yogurt, sour cream, or tzatziki, to complement their flavor. Pair them grilled meats or with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. These fritters are a delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchini any time of year.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Olive oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Then, squeeze out excess liquid.
2. Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), eggs, green onions, garlic, black pepper, paprika, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
3. Heat the oil: In a skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
4. Cook the fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and serve: Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve warm with a dipping sauce like yogurt or sour cream, if desired.

Air Fryer Cooking Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare for air frying: Lightly spray the air fryer basket or rack with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the fritters in a single layer, leaving space between them for air circulation.
3. Air fry the fritters: Cook the fritters in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through if using a basket, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.