These crispy zucchini corn fritters are a tasty treat! With fresh zucchini and sweet corn, they make a great snack or side dish that everyone will love.
I always find them disappearing from the plate in no time! They’re perfect for lunchboxes or a fun family dinner. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and texture. You can try using yellow squash if zucchini isn’t available. I find that a mix of both adds great color.
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is ideal, but frozen corn works just as well. If you want a twist, use canned corn—just make sure to drain it well!
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a wonderful flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can replace it for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but for a gluten-free version, almond flour or gluten-free flour blends can substitute well, although the texture may differ slightly.
How Can I Keep My Fritters Extra Crispy?
The key to making sure your zucchini corn fritters are crispy lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Grate the zucchini, then place it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze the towel to extract as much liquid as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crunchier your fritters!
- Mix the batter gently without overmixing, as this helps keep the fritters light. Overmixing can make them dense.
- Fry them in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
Trust me; these small steps make a big difference! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Corn Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
For Serving:
- Optional: sour cream or yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 30-35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a large mixing bowl. This is where you’ll combine all your ingredients. Once grated, take the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Gently squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This is key to achieving crispy fritters since excess moisture can make them soggy.
2. Mix the Fritter Batter:
In the same bowl with the zucchini, add the corn kernels, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, green onions (if you’re using them), baking powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The mix should be somewhat thick.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Take a large skillet and pour in 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Heat it over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that a tiny drop of the batter sizzles when added, but not smoking.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Gently flatten the batter with the back of the spoon to form a small patty. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which helps them cook evenly.
5. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. If needed, adjust the heat to make sure they don’t burn. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once all the fritters are cooked, serve them warm. They’re delicious on their own, but you can also enjoy them with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a tasty touch. Enjoy your crispy zucchini corn fritters!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add vegetables like grated carrots, bell peppers, or even chopped spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture, similar to the zucchini.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free fritters, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I Store Leftover Fritters?
Yes, you can store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until crispy again, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Crispy Zucchini Corn Fritters?
These fritters are delicious on their own, but they shine when paired with dips! Consider serving them with sour cream, yogurt, or a tangy salsa. They also make a great addition to salads or as a side dish for grilled meats!
