Crispy Vegan Zucchini Fritters

zucchini fritters

When you’ve got more zucchinis than you know what to do with, these easy vegan zucchini fritters are your new go-to recipe! They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick vegan snack, lunchbox filler, or light dinner, these fritters will become a staple in your plant-based kitchen.

Imagine the sizzle of golden fritters in the pan, the aroma of garlic and spices filling the air, and that satisfying crunch with every bite. That’s the magic of vegan zucchini fritters—simple, comforting, and downright delicious.

What Can I Do with Lots of Zucchini?

Zucchini, also known as courgette, is the ultimate versatile veggie. It’s mild in flavour, tender in texture, and perfect for soaking up spices and seasonings. Whether it’s starring in savoury vegan zucchini muffins, stirred through pasta, or crisped up ready for some fried zucchini in air fryer, zucchini always delivers.

Some of my favourite ways to use zucchini include:

But honestly? Nothing beats the crispy, savoury perfection of these easy vegan zucchini fritters. They’re great for school lunchboxes, snacks when guests pop over, or even as a light dinner with a fresh salad.


Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside

The secret to perfect vegan zucchini fritters is all about the texture. You want them golden and crunchy on the outside, but soft and flavourful inside. Here’s how to nail it every time:

  1. Grate and Drain Your Zucchini:
    Grate your zucchini and sprinkle it with a little salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes—this helps draw out excess moisture. Then, squeeze it with a clean tea towel or paper towel to get rid of as much liquid as possible. This step is key to avoiding soggy fritters!

  2. Mix the Perfect Batter:
    Your batter should be thick enough to hold together but not dry. Think pancake batter consistency—just with more veggie goodness.

  3. Hot Pan = Crispy Fritters:
    Make sure your oil is hot before adding the fritters. This helps them crisp up quickly without absorbing too much oil.


Vegan Zucchini Fritters Air Fryer Method

Want to skip the oil but still enjoy crispy fritters? Try making your vegan zucchini fritters in the air fryer! It’s quick, easy, and gives you that satisfying crunch without the extra oil.

How to Cook Zucchini Fritters in the Air Fryer:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).

  2. Lightly spray the basket with oil or use baking paper to prevent sticking.

  3. Shape the fritters into small patties and place them in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd!).

  4. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flip halfway through, and cook until golden and crispy.

The air fryer is a game-changer, especially when you want a healthier option without sacrificing crunch.


Tips for Perfect Vegan Zucchini Fritters

  • Don’t skip draining the zucchini! This is the secret to avoiding soggy fritters.

  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavour.

  • Make them gluten-free by swapping plain flour for chickpea flour or gluten-free flour.

  • Double the batch and freeze extras—just reheat in the air fryer or oven for a quick snack.


FAQ: Vegan Zucchini Fritters

Can I freeze vegan zucchini fritters?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

What’s the best dipping sauce for zucchini fritters?

Try a vegan garlic aioli, tahini sauce, or simple lemon yoghurt dip. They all pair beautifully with the savoury fritters.

Can I make these fritters gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use chickpea flour or your favourite gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour.



Ready to whip up a batch of crispy, golden goodness? These easy vegan zucchini fritters are the perfect snack, lunch, or light dinner. Plus, with the air fryer option, they’re even quicker and healthier. Give them a go, and let me know how they turn out!


INGREDIENTS

Zucchini Vegan Fritters

  • 1 large zucchini, grated

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1/2 cup plain flour

  • 1 tsp nutmeg

  • 1 tsp sweet paprika

  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

  • Salt & Pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp soy milk

METHOD

  • Sprinkle some salt over your grated zucchini and allow to sit for about an hour to remove some water.

  • Put the zucchini in a large bowl and pat dry with paper towel to get any excess water

  • Add in the garlic, baking powder, flour, nutmeg, sweet paprika, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper and soy milk. Mix to combine

  • Form into balls and press gently to flatten. Add more flour if too wet or more milk if still dry

  • Heat oil in a fry pan over medium heat. Cook until golden then flip and cook for a few minutes

*This blog includes affiliates links where I may receive a commission

Latest featured blogs:

Previous
Previous

Vegan Roasted Capsicum and Pumpkin Soup

Next
Next

Easy Vegan ‘Tuna’ Chickpeas Recipe