These crispy zucchini patties are the perfect snack to munch on! Made with fresh zucchini, breadcrumbs, and a bit of cheese, they are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
I love serving these with a little dipping sauce on the side! They make a great treat for any gathering or just for a fun afternoon snack. Plus, they’re a sneaky way to get some veggies in! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star! You can substitute with yellow squash if needed. For an extra flavor boost, consider mixing in shredded carrots or sweet potatoes.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re dairy-free, use nutritional yeast instead for a cheese-like taste. You could also try other cheese like cheddar or feta for a different twist.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for binding. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or chickpea flour. Remember that texture may vary slightly!
Bread Crumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Zucchini Patties?
Texture is key for crispy zucchini patties! Start by properly draining the grated zucchini. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. If your mixture seems too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds together well. Don’t skip coating the patties with breadcrumbs before frying; this ensures an extra crunchy crust.
- Grate and salt the zucchini to release moisture.
- Squeeze it dry using a towel.
- Adjust the mix as needed for consistency.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding in the pan, which helps them cook evenly.
By following these tips, your zucchini patties will be crispy and delicious! Enjoy snacking! 😊
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. You’ll have delicious, crispy zucchini patties ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis with a box grater. Once grated, place them in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the salt can draw out moisture. This step helps ensure your patties are not soggy!
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wrap the grated zucchini in it. Squeeze as much liquid as you can out of the zucchini. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your patties will be!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Mix everything together until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Form the Patties:
With clean hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. This mixture should yield around 8-10 patties, depending on the size you prefer.
5. Coat the Patties:
To ensure extra crispiness, lightly coat each patty with additional breadcrumbs. This will give them a wonderful crunch when cooked!
6. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking. This will help your patties cook evenly and become golden brown.
7. Fry the Patties:
Once the oil is ready, carefully add the patties in batches. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each patty space to cook!
8. Drain the Patties:
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them crispy and prevent them from getting greasy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy zucchini patties warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sour cream, tzatziki, or marinara. Enjoy this delicious and easy snack!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Patties
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen zucchini and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps avoid soggy patties!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, consider using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, or you can use crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Patties?
Store leftover patties 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 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness!
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the zucchini mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Just cover and chill them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just coat in breadcrumbs and fry as directed.
