These crispy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to enjoy vegetables! They are made with fresh zucchini, eggs, and a little flour, giving them a nice crunch.
What I love most is that they’re easy to make and perfect as a snack or side dish. Plus, they disappear fast—so make sure to grab one before they’re all gone! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is essential in this recipe. It brings moisture and a mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you could use yellow squash or carrots for a similar texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the fritters. If you want a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Just adjust the amount slightly to get the right texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a savory depth of flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using pecorino cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together. For a vegan alternative, you can use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup) for binding.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Fritters?
Getting the desired crunch in your fritters boils down to removing moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to do it well:
- After grating, mix the zucchini with salt and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Next, squeeze out as much liquid as you can using a clean kitchen towel. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be.
Frying at the right temperature is also important. If the oil is too hot, they may burn; if it’s too cool, they’ll absorb more oil and become soggy. Aim for a medium heat.
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 600g), grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (about 30g)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in total, expect around 30-35 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these delicious fritters!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchini into a large bowl. Once grated, sprinkle the zucchini with salt and mix it well. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, which will keep your fritters crispy.
2. Remove Excess Liquid:
After the zucchini has sat for 10 minutes, it’s time to remove that moisture. Take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, place the grated zucchini in it, and squeeze tightly to get rid of as much liquid as you can. This step is super important for achieving crispy fritters!
3. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are lightly beaten. Now, add in the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), minced garlic, green onions or herbs, and some freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a loose batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Wait until it’s hot but not smoking—this is a key part of cooking the fritters evenly.
5. Fry the Fritters:
Once the oil is ready, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Use the back of the spoon to gently flatten them into small patties about 2-3 inches wide. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning!
6. Drain and Serve:
After frying, transfer the fritters to a paper-towel-lined plate to help drain away any extra oil. This keeps them crispy, so don’t skip this step!
7. Dish It Up:
Serve your crispy zucchini fritters warm! They taste great on their own, but adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top takes them to the next level. Enjoy!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before using it in the recipe to avoid soggy fritters.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal alternative (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the batter.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. For crispy results, reheating in a skillet is recommended.
Can I Make These Fritters in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, it’s best to fry them just before serving for optimal crispiness. If you want to reheat previously fried fritters, heat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crunch.
