Zucchini Fritters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zucchini fritters are the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. The fresh zucchini adds a mild, refreshing flavor, while the crispy exterior and soft interior make each bite satisfying. They are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a fun way to use up extra zucchini from your garden, zucchini fritters will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be adapted with different herbs, spices, or dipping sauces.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

• Olive oil (for frying)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is important to ensure the fritters are crispy and not soggy.

2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir everything together until a thick batter forms. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour to help it bind.

3. Heat the oil: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Fry the fritters: Once the oil is hot, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini batter into the skillet, flattening each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Drain excess oil: Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve: Serve the zucchini fritters hot with your choice of dipping sauce, such as sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a spicy mayo.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Add more cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey interior.

• Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for extra flavor.

• Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.

• Vegan: To make the fritters vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a dairy-free cheese.

• Veggies: Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the batter for extra vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover zucchini fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the fritters in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side or heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them up again.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini, but if you have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and squeeze out all the moisture before using it in the fritters.

2. How do I make the fritters crispier?

To make the fritters crispier, ensure you squeeze out all excess moisture from the zucchini, and don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Also, make sure the oil is hot before adding the fritters to the skillet.

3. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake zucchini fritters for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake them for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

4. How can I make these fritters spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the batter for an extra kick of heat.

5. How long can I keep leftover fritters?

Zucchini fritters can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container.

6. Can I freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes, you can freeze zucchini fritters. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

7. What can I serve with zucchini fritters?

Zucchini fritters are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of salad, a yogurt-based dipping sauce, or even as a side dish to grilled meats or pasta.

8. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fritters ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven before serving.

9. Can I add other vegetables to the fritters?

Yes, you can mix in finely grated carrots, sweet potatoes, or spinach to add more flavor and nutrients to the fritters.

10. Do I need to peel the zucchini before grating it?

No, you don’t need to peel the zucchini. The skin adds extra texture and nutrients to the fritters, and it softens when cooked.

Conclusion

Zucchini fritters are a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up extra zucchini or adding a vegetable-packed option to your meal. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, they offer a great balance of crunch and tenderness. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs, spices, or cheese. These fritters are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!