Summer Squash Fritters with Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce

Easy Air Fryer Summer Squash Fritters

a bite of summer squash fritter on a fork dipping into a bowl of yogurt sauce with summer squash fritters in the background

How to Make Crispy Summer Squash Fritters with Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce

These golden, cheesy air fryer summer squash fritters are the perfect way to enjoy fresh garden squash. Ready in just 20 minutes and paired with a zesty yogurt sauce, they’re crispy outside, tender inside, and absolutely addictive!

Table of Contents for Air Fryer Summer Squash Fritters

Ingredients and Supplies

2 yellow squash with measuring spoons and ingredients

Fritters

  • 2 medium summer squash (yellow squash or zucchini), shredded
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Olive oil spray

a group of bowls and spoons with ingredients to make yogurt sauce

Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (dill, chives, or parsley), optional

Supplies

  • Air fryer
  • Grater or food processor
  • Cheesecloth or clean towel
  • Mixing bowls, spatula, measuring tools
  • Parchment paper or foil (optional)

How to Make Air Fryer Summer Squash Fritters

grated squash being squeezed with cheesecloth

Step 1: Prep the Squash

Grate 2 medium summer squash into a bowl. Wrap in cheesecloth or a clean towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crispy fritters!

Step 2: Mix the Batter

Combine the squeezed squash with egg, flour, Parmesan, baking powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well mixed.

a bowl of lemon yogurt sauce with a parsley topping

Step 3: Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Chill while fritters cook.

Step 4: Shape the Fritters

Form the batter into 8–10 small patties. TIP: A hamburger press works great for shaping the patties and getting out more moisture!

summer squash fritters in an air fryer basket

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

Step 6: Air Fry

Line the air fryer basket with parchment (optional). Spray with olive oil. Air fry the fritters in batches for 8–10 minutes, flip, press slightly with a spatula, and cook another 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with the garlic lemon yogurt sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is draining the squash important?
It removes excess moisture, preventing soggy fritters. The drier the squash, the crispier the fritters!
Can I make them ahead?
Yes! Refrigerate up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F for 6–8 minutes.
What if I don’t have cheesecloth?
Use a clean towel, strong paper towels, or press in a mesh strainer. Just get that moisture out!
Why are my fritters falling apart?
They likely have too much moisture or not enough flour/egg. Drain thoroughly and adjust if needed.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side with grilled chicken or steak
  • Top with a fried egg for a savory breakfast
  • Use as a veggie burger patty alternative
  • Offer as an appetizer with yogurt or ranch dip

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re trying to use up garden squash or just looking for a crispy, satisfying veggie recipe, these air fryer summer squash fritters are a must-make. The garlic lemon yogurt sauce adds a fresh, zippy twist that complements the savory Parmesan perfectly. With their golden crust and tender interior, these fritters are a family favorite that’s easy to prep ahead, meal prep friendly, and totally freezer safe. Add them to your summer rotation and enjoy every crispy bite!

Crispy Air Fryer Summer Squash Fritters with Yogurt Sauce

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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Adjust Servings: 4 people

Equipment

  • Box grater or food processor with shredding blade
  • Cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel
  • Mixing bowls

Ingredients

Garlic Lemon Yogurt Sauce

Instructions

Make the Fritters:

  • Grate the squash using a box grater or food processor with a shredding blade.
  • Place shredded squash in cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This is crucial for crispy fritters!
  • In a bowl, combine the drained squash, egg, flour, Parmesan, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.

Make the Sauce:

  • Combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs in a small bowl. Refrigerate while making fritters.
  • Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
  • Form squash mixture into 8-10 patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
  • Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket and tops of fritters with olive oil.
  • Cook fritters in batches at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, flip, then cook for 5-7 more minutes until golden and crispy.
  • Serve immediately with garlic lemon yogurt sauce.

Recipe Notes

  • A food processor is the fastest way to shred squash.
  • It is vital to get all excess moisture out. Cheesecloth makes that easier.
  • Always preheat the air fryer for crispier fritters.
  • Press fritters after flipping to squeeze out any remaining moisture.
  • For make-ahead: Store cooked fritters in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until crispy.

Nutrition

Serving: 2fritters | Calories: 120kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 380mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g

Ingredients: All-purpose flour, Baking Powder, Chives, Dill, Egg, Flour, Garlic, Garlic Powder, Greek yogurt, Italian Seasoning, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, Olive oil, Parmesan, Parsley, Pepper, Red Chili Flakes, Salt, Yellow Squash
Meal Type: Appetizers and Snacks, Side Dish, Summer, Low Carb and Keto, Meatless, Vegetarian
Categories: Finger Food and Dips, Healthy, Vegetables, Air Fryer

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