These air fryer veggie fritters are the perfect way to use up leftover vegetables while sneaking in some extra goodness for the family. Grated carrot, zucchini, and onion come together with eggs and flour to form golden patties that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. They’re quick, easy, and surprisingly kid-friendly—even picky eaters won’t mind the veggies.
They make a fantastic lunch, snack, or side dish and are ideal for busy weeknights. You can prep the veggies ahead of time and toss everything together in minutes. The air fryer gives them that crisp texture without all the oil and mess of traditional frying.
Best of all, they’re endlessly flexible. Add cheese, swap the veg, or throw in herbs for extra flavor. Whether served with a dip, tucked into wraps, or alongside a simple salad, these fritters are a go-to favorite.
Servings: 4
Nutrition: 250–350 calories per serving
Ingredients
- Carrot
- Zucchini
- Onion
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil spray
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or feta for extra flavor and richness.
- Swap the Veggies: Try grated sweet potato or corn in place of zucchini or carrot.
- Use Gluten-Free Flour: Swap with oat or chickpea flour to make the fritters gluten-free.
Substitutions & Variations
- Use Chicken Thighs: Swap in boneless thighs for even more flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Include snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra color and crunch.
- Make It Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha if you like heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
What Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Box grater
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
- Spatula or scoop
Storage & Reheating Guidelines
- Storage: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 350°F until warm and crisp. You can also microwave them for a softer texture.
Top Tips
- Squeeze the Veggies: Removing moisture helps the fritters crisp up and hold together better.
- Flip Gently: Use a thin spatula to flip halfway through for even browning.
- Chill the Mix: Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes before forming patties for better binding.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed to ensure they crisp instead of steaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the veggie mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked fritters also reheat well in the air fryer. - Are these freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer or oven. - What dips go well with these?
They’re delicious with garlic yogurt sauce, sour cream, hummus, or even ketchup for kids. You can also try a herby ranch or avocado dip.
Related Recipes
- Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Aioli: Crispy, air-fried sweet potato fries paired with a tangy garlic yogurt dip for a healthy, flavorful side.
- Air Fryer Falafel: Light, crispy chickpea patties with herbs and spices—perfect for wraps, bowls, or dipping.
Food Safety Guidelines
- Wash Produce: Clean carrots, zucchini, and onions thoroughly before grating.
- Store Properly: Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
- Cook Evenly: Make sure fritters are cooked through and golden brown on both sides.
- Use Clean Tools: Avoid cross-contamination by using clean utensils and mixing bowls.
Air Fryer Veggie Fritters
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Box grater
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
- Spatula or scoop
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1 medium carrot grated
- 1 medium zucchini grated
- 1 small onion grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or crumbled feta
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
Instructions
- Grate the carrot, zucchini, and onion. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine the grated vegetables, eggs, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add cheese or herbs if using.
- Mix until the batter is well combined and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Form the mixture into small patties using your hands or a scoop.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
- Place fritters in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.