These easy zucchini fritters are perfect for a quick snack! Made with fresh zucchini, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. Plus, they’re great for using up those extra veggies!
Whenever I make these, I can’t resist popping one in my mouth right away. They’re best with a dip, like yogurt or salsa. Give them a try, and watch them disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Look for firm, glossy zucchinis. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash makes a great substitute. Just make sure any squash you use is grated to ensure even cooking.
Flour: All-purpose flour holds the fritters together. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or chickpea flour instead. They both work well and still give a nice texture.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds rich flavor. Grated mozzarella or feta cheese can be used instead if you’re looking for a different taste or texture.
Egg: The egg is a binder. If you want an egg-free version, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) or an equal amount of applesauce for a vegan option.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is optional but adds flavor. Feel free to swap it out for chives or cilantro if you prefer something different.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Moisture from Zucchini?
Removing moisture is key to getting crispy fritters. After grating the zucchini, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit in a colander for about 10 minutes. This process pulls excess water out. Then, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much liquid as you can!
- Grate the zucchini and salt it for 10 minutes.
- Use a towel to squeeze out the liquid well.
- Ensure that the mixture in your bowl is not too wet before you form the patties.
By following these steps, your fritters will be crispy and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1/2 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)
- Olive oil, for frying
Time Required:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. So, you can have these tasty fritters ready in about 30 to 35 minutes total! Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This helps ensure your fritters will be crispy!
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and use it to squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. You want the mixture to be fairly dry!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix everything together until it’s well combined and holds together nicely.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet lightly. This will help give the fritters a nice golden color.
5. Form the Fritters:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture, shape it into small patties. Place them carefully into the hot skillet, pressing them lightly to flatten a bit.
6. Cook the Fritters:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat so they don’t burn!
7. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream, yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your quick and delicious zucchini fritters!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture, but if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain it completely before using. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid soggy fritters!
Can I Make These Fritters Vegan?
Absolutely! To make the fritters vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Both options work well as binders.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Zucchini Fritters?
These fritters taste great with a variety of dips! Try serving them with sour cream, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, marinara sauce, or even a spicy salsa for a kick!
