Description of this recipe:
These Air-Fryer Courgette & Feta Fritters offer a delightful and healthier twist on a classic snack. Combining the fresh, mildness of courgette with the salty tang of feta, aromatic herbs, and a crispy exterior, these fritters are a perfect appetizer, light lunch, or side dish. The air-fryer method ensures they are perfectly cooked with little oil and deliver a satisfying crunch without the greasiness of traditional frying.
Why you will love this recipe:
You will fall in love with these fritters for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and using simple, readily available ingredients. The air-fryer significantly reduces the cooking time and oil usage, making them a healthier alternative to pan-fried fritters. The combination of flavors – the subtle sweetness of courgette, the creamy saltiness of feta, and the fresh herbs – creates a truly irresistible taste experience. The crispy exterior and soft interior provide a satisfying textural contrast. They are endlessly versatile, pairing well with various dips, salads, and main courses. Furthermore, they offer a creative and delicious way to use up abundant summer courgettes.
Introduction
Courgette season brings a bounty of culinary opportunities, and these Air-Fryer Courgette & Feta Fritters are a standout among them. This recipe elevates the humble courgette into a flavorful and satisfying treat. The air-fryer ensures they achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior while remaining tender and flavorful inside. Unlike traditional fried fritters, these use minimal oil, making them a lighter and healthier option without sacrificing taste. The addition of feta cheese brings a creamy, salty tang that complements the mild courgette beautifully, while fresh herbs add a burst of aromatic freshness. Perfect for a light lunch, a flavorful appetizer, or a side dish to any meal, these fritters are a versatile and crowd-pleasing recipe that is sure to become a household favorite. Prepare to enjoy a burst of summer flavors in every crispy bite!
Ingredients:
- 3 courgettes (about 650g), coarsely grated
- 75g feta cheese, crumbled
- 4 spring onions, finely sliced
- 15g fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 10g fresh dill, finely chopped
- 25g plain flour
- 1 large egg
- 50g breadcrumbs
- Vegetable or sunflower oil, for air-frying
- Yogurt, for serving (optional)
- Olive oil, for serving (optional)
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Courgette
The first step is crucial for achieving the perfect fritter texture. Place the coarsely grated courgette in a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Salt helps draw out excess moisture from the courgette, preventing the fritters from becoming soggy. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the grated courgette. Allow the courgette to sit for 1 hour. This resting period is essential for removing a significant amount of water from the courgette.
Step 2: Drain the Courgette
After an hour, the courgette will have released a considerable amount of liquid. Tip the courgette into a colander or sieve placed over a bowl to catch the drained liquid. Allow it to drain for a few minutes to remove the bulk of the water. This step is critical, but the next step is even more important.
Step 3: Squeeze Out Excess Moisture
Transfer the drained courgette to a clean tea towel or several layers of paper towels. Gather the edges of the towel and squeeze firmly to extract as much liquid as possible. Be prepared for a surprising amount of water to come out. Continue squeezing until the courgette feels relatively dry. This step is perhaps the most important in the entire recipe, as it directly impacts the texture of the final fritters.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Place the squeezed-dry courgette in a clean bowl (or dry out the bowl you used previously). Crumble the feta cheese into the bowl, distributing it evenly among the courgette. Add the finely sliced spring onions, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. These herbs contribute a fresh, aromatic element to the fritters. Sprinkle in the plain flour and toss gently to combine. The flour helps bind the mixture together and absorb any remaining moisture. Finally, mix in the egg and breadcrumbs. The egg acts as a binder, while the breadcrumbs add texture and contribute to the crispy exterior. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Form the Fritters
Using your hands, form the mixture into approximately eight fritters. They should be relatively uniform in size and thickness for even cooking. Arrange the formed fritters on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Prepare for Air-Frying
Lightly brush each side of the fritters with vegetable or sunflower oil. This step is essential for achieving a golden-brown and crispy exterior in the air-fryer. Don’t overdo the oil – a light brushing is all that’s needed.
Step 7: Air-Fry the Fritters
Preheat your air-fryer to 180°C (350°F). Once preheated, carefully place the fritters in the air-fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in two batches depending on the size of your air-fryer. Cook for 12 minutes.
Step 8: Flip and Finish Cooking
After 12 minutes, carefully flip the fritters. Cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them during this final cooking stage to prevent burning. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air-fryer model.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the fritters are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air-fryer and serve immediately. A dollop of yogurt drizzled with a little olive oil makes an excellent accompaniment. Alternatively, serve them alongside a fresh salad for a light and refreshing lunch or with poached eggs for a delightful brunch. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a creamy dip.
- Enjoy as a light lunch alongside a fresh salad.
- Pair with poached eggs for a delicious brunch.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Tips:
- Ensure you squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the courgette to prevent soggy fritters.
- Don’t overcrowd the air-fryer basket; cook the fritters in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the cooking time based on your air-fryer model.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the fritter mixture.
- If the fritter mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Prep Time:
20 minutes (plus 1 hour resting time for the courgette)
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on ingredient brands and specific amounts used.)
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 8-10g
- Sodium: 200-300mg
Conclusion
These Air-Fryer Courgette & Feta Fritters are a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be both delicious and convenient. They offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy appetizer, a light and satisfying lunch, or a creative way to use up summer courgettes, this recipe is sure to impress. The air-fryer method ensures that they are crispy, golden, and relatively guilt-free. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your air-fryer, and prepare to enjoy a culinary experience that is both healthy and incredibly delicious.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
A: Absolutely! While feta provides a unique salty and tangy flavor that complements the courgette perfectly, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese. Halloumi, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar would work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change depending on the cheese you choose. Halloumi, like feta, will provide a salty bite, while ricotta will offer a creamier, milder taste. If using cheddar, ensure it is finely grated for even distribution.
Q2: What if I don’t have an air-fryer? Can I bake or pan-fry these fritters?
A: Yes, you can definitely bake or pan-fry these fritters if you don’t have an air-fryer. To bake them, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown. For pan-frying, heat a thin layer of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the fritters for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Keep in mind that baked fritters might not be as crispy as air-fried ones, and pan-fried fritters will be higher in fat content.
Q3: Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the mixture might release some liquid as it sits, so you may need to drain off any excess liquid before forming and cooking the fritters. It’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture, but preparing the mixture in advance can save you time on a busy day. You can also cook the fritters and reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up before serving.
Q4: Can I add other vegetables to these fritters?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. Grated carrot, zucchini (if you don’t have enough courgette), spinach, or even finely chopped bell peppers would be great additions. Just be sure to adjust the amount of flour or breadcrumbs as needed to maintain the right consistency of the mixture. Too many wet ingredients will cause the fritters to fall apart.
Q5: Are these fritters suitable for freezing?
A: While technically you can freeze these fritters, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the cooked and cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the air-fryer or oven until heated through and crispy. Be aware that they might not be as crispy as freshly made frit