Zucchini Fritters

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zucchini fritters are a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet in a fun and delicious way. The crispy exterior and tender interior make these fritters irresistible. Plus, they are quick and simple to prepare, using only a few ingredients you likely already have on hand. You can enjoy them as a side to almost any meal, or serve them as a snack on their own. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy zucchini or just want a light and satisfying dish, zucchini fritters are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis

• 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

• Olive oil (for frying)

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

Directions

1. 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 the excess moisture.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir until everything is well mixed and the batter holds together.

3. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet and flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form small fritters.

4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Repeat the process with the remaining zucchini mixture, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

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 different flavor profile.

• Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to change up the seasoning.

• Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to give the fritters a bit of a kick.

• Vegan: Use a flax egg in place of the regular egg and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 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 freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes, you can freeze zucchini fritters. Allow them to cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. How do I make zucchini fritters crispier?

To make zucchini fritters crispier, ensure you squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible before mixing it with the other ingredients. Also, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, and don’t overcrowd the skillet to allow proper crisping.

3. Can I bake zucchini 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 the fritters for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

4. What can I serve zucchini fritters with?

Zucchini fritters are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces such as sour cream, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or even a spicy ketchup. They also pair well with a simple salad or as a side to grilled meats.

5. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Just make sure to use a flour blend that is suitable for baking.

6. How can I make zucchini fritters spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or minced jalapeños to the batter for a spicy kick.

7. How long can zucchini fritters be kept in the fridge?

Zucchini fritters can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

8. Can I make zucchini fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also cook the fritters and store them in the fridge, reheating them when ready to serve.

9. Do I need to peel the zucchini before grating?

No, there is no need to peel the zucchini before grating. The skin adds extra texture and nutrients to the fritters.

10. What other vegetables can I add to zucchini fritters?

You can mix in grated carrots, sweet potatoes, or even finely chopped spinach to make your fritters even more flavorful and nutritious.

Conclusion

Zucchini fritters are a delightful dish that is easy to prepare and customizable to your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up extra zucchini or simply want a tasty snack, these fritters are the perfect option. With endless variations, you can make them as simple or as adventurous as you like. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, zucchini fritters are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.