These crispy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Made with fresh zucchinis, a bit of cheese, and simple spices, they are crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Perfect as a snack or a side dish, these fritters are quick to whip up. I often eat them for lunch and dip them in my favorite sauce. You’ll want to eat them all in one sitting! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Use fresh medium zucchinis for the best flavor. If you’re short on zucchini, yellow squash works well too. You can even mix them for a colorful twist!
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the ingredients together. If you want a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or chickpea flour instead.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty and nutty flavor. Feel free to substitute with grated Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese if you’d like to keep it vegan.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. If you’re vegan, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken).
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and flavor. If you don’t have it, other herbs like basil or chives also work well.
How Can I Ensure My Fritters Are Extra Crispy?
The key to achieving that perfect crispy texture lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to do it right:
- Grate your zucchinis and sprinkle them with salt. This helps extract moisture.
- Let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes. The salt draws out the liquid.
- Squeeze the grated zucchini in a clean towel or cheesecloth to remove as much liquid as possible. This is a crucial step for crispy fritters!
- A hot skillet with enough oil will also help achieve that golden brown color. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty snack or light meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchinis.
2. Remove Excess Liquid:
After the zucchinis have rested, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze the zucchini to get rid of as much liquid as possible. This step is important; it will ensure your fritters are crispy!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and chopped parsley (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until well incorporated and a cohesive mixture forms.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the fritter mixture to achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
5. Shape the Fritters:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture and form small patties. Make sure they’re not too thick to ensure they cook evenly.
6. Fry the Fritters:
Carefully place the fritters in the hot skillet. Fry them in batches, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; give them space to cook well!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm with a side of sour cream, yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your crispy zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Yes! While this recipe calls for regular green zucchinis, you can also use yellow squash or a mix of both for added color and flavor. Just make sure they are fresh and firm!
How Can I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Fritters?
These fritters are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces! Some popular options include sour cream, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or a spicy aioli. You can also try serving them with a zesty dip made from lemon juice and olive oil.
Can I Make These Fritters Vegan?
Absolutely! To make the fritters vegan, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until it thickens). You can also use a vegan cheese alternative in place of Parmesan.
