Easy Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! These little patties are made with grated zucchini, eggs, and a sprinkle of flour, making them crispy on the outside and soft inside.
They’re perfect as a snack or a side dish, and trust me, your family will love them! I like to dip mine in some yogurt or salsa because it adds a fun twist. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are essential. If they’re not in season, use yellow squash for a similar texture and flavor. You can also try grated carrots for a colorful twist!
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here. If you need a gluten-free option, brown rice flour or a gluten-free blend would be excellent substitutes.
Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be a good alternate.
Egg: This binds everything together. If you’re vegan or have an egg allergy, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead.
Herbs: Chives add a mild onion flavor. Feel free to swap them with chopped green onions or parsley. Fresh herbs always elevate the taste!
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Zucchini Fritters?
Getting the right texture is key to delicious zucchini fritters. Start by salting the grated zucchinis to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing sogginess.
- Use a clean kitchen towel to wring out the moisture after letting the zucchini sit with salt for about 10-15 minutes.
- Don’t skip the mixing process! Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated to help with binding.
- Monitor the oil temperature; it should be hot enough to create a nice crust but not too hot to burn.
These steps help achieve fritters that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them irresistible! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe will take you about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the ingredients, and about 15 minutes cooking. Enjoy the easy process and delicious results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps to draw out excess moisture, which is important for making crispy fritters.
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After letting the zucchinis rest, take the towel and wring out the zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible. This makes sure your fritters aren’t soggy!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, black pepper, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and chopped chives. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed; it should form a nice, consistent batter.
4. Cook the Fritters:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, use a spoon to drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of a spatula to help them cook evenly.
5. Fry Until Golden:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. If needed, add more olive oil to the skillet for the remaining batches. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil and keep them crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm zucchini fritters garnished with extra chives and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side. Enjoy your delicious and easy zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Frozen zucchini can be used, but it’s best to let it thaw completely and then squeeze out excess moisture, just like fresh zucchini. Keep in mind that frozen zucchini might be slightly softer, so the fritters may not be as crispy. You can also try adding a bit more flour to help bind the mixture.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with grated Pecorino Romano for a saltier flavor, or you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you need a vegan option. Just make sure the texture is similar to grated cheese to maintain the consistency of the fritters.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover zucchini fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, which helps keep them crispy.
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for about 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before cooking, as some moisture may accumulate. Try to cook them fresh for the best texture, but this can save time on a busy day!
