Crispy zucchini fritters made with fresh zucchini, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Includes stovetop, oven, and air fryer methods with tips for perfect texture.
1 — Kitchen towel — To squeeze moisture from zucchini
1 — Baking sheet — For oven-baked fritters
1 — Air fryer (optional) — For low-oil cooking
Ingredients
2medium zucchini — grated
1large egg
1/2cupbreadcrumbs — panko preferred
1/4cupParmesan cheese — grated
1/2tspsalt — plus extra for draining
1/4tspblack pepper
2tbspolive oil — for frying
Instructions
Grate zucchini and place in a colander. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
Wrap zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
In a mixing bowl, combine zucchini, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, black pepper, and a pinch more salt if desired. Mix well.
Shape mixture into 12 small patties.
For stovetop: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook fritters 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
For oven: Preheat to 425°F. Arrange fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with oil, and bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
For air fryer: Preheat to 400°F. Arrange fritters in a single layer, spray lightly with oil, and cook 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
Notes
For extra crispiness, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture. Drain zucchini thoroughly to avoid soggy centers. Pair with tzatziki, marinara, or a poached egg for serving.