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Crispy Healthy Air Fryer Veggie Hash Cakes

crispy healthy air fryer veggie hash cakes - featured image

These crispy healthy air fryer veggie hash cakes are a quick, easy, and guilt-free snack packed with veggies and bursting with flavor. Perfect for brunch, snacks, or appetizers, they offer a golden crunch with a tender veggie center.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated (squeeze out excess moisture)
  • 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil for air fryer basket

Instructions

  1. Prep the veggies (10-15 minutes): Grate zucchini and carrot using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Finely dice the red bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic cloves.
  2. Mix ingredients (5 minutes): In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, carrot, bell pepper, onion, garlic, and thawed corn. Add beaten eggs, whole wheat breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir everything together until well combined. If the mixture is too loose, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs.
  3. Shape the cakes (5 minutes): Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into golf-ball-sized patties, then gently flatten them into 2-inch rounds. Place them on a plate or tray ready for air frying.
  4. Preheat and prepare air fryer (3 minutes): Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook the hash cakes (10-12 minutes): Arrange the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 5-6 minutes, then carefully flip them and cook for another 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy on both sides. Cook in batches if needed.
  6. Rest and serve: Transfer the hash cakes to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess moisture. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from zucchini to avoid soggy hash cakes. Use fresh eggs at room temperature for better binding. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket and flip halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Chill mixture for 15 minutes if cakes feel fragile. Breadcrumb choice affects texture: panko for crunchier, whole wheat for nuttier taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, veggie hash cakes, healthy snack, crispy, easy recipe, gluten-free option, vegan option, quick snack