These easy zucchini fritters are perfect for a quick snack! Made with shredded zucchini, flour, and a sprinkle of cheese, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Trust me, they’re so tasty, you’ll want to snack on them all day! I love dipping them in my favorite sauce for an extra kick. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of the show! Make sure to use firm, bright green zucchinis for the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash can work in a pinch.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the fritters structure, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if you’re watching your dietary intake.
Parmesan cheese: I love the sharpness it adds. If you want a different flavor, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. For a vegan version, you can substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Fresh parsley: This adds a nice pop of color and flavor. If you don’t have any, herbs like chives or dill could be great alternatives!
How Do You Achieve Crispy Zucchini Fritters?
Getting that perfect crispy texture on these fritters is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Salt the grated zucchini and let it sit to draw out moisture. This prevents sogginess.
- After squeezing out the liquid, make sure your batter isn’t too wet. It should hold together but not be runny.
- Use enough oil in a hot skillet; it should shimmer but not smoke. This way, the fritters will fry rather than steam.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each fritter room to crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have deliciously crispy zucchini fritters every time. Happy cooking!
Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 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)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll have delicious zucchini fritters ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
First, take your grated zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help remove excess moisture so your fritters don’t become soggy.
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After 10 minutes, use a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth to squeeze the zucchini. Get as much liquid out as you can. This step is really important for crispy fritters!
3. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, mix the drained zucchini with the flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and parsley (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan but not so much that the fritters are swimming in it. Just enough for frying!
5. Form the Fritters:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture, scoop it into the skillet and gently flatten it into a patty. Be sure to leave enough space between each fritter so they can cook evenly.
6. Cooking Time:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Don’t rush this step; the crispiness is worth the wait!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them nice and crunchy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your zucchini fritters warm on a plate with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if you like. Enjoy your quick and delicious snack!
Happy cooking and enjoy your yummy zucchini fritters!
FAQ About Easy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with any cheese you prefer, such as feta, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different taste.
How Do I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these fritters gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. Just make sure to check that other ingredients are also gluten-free!
Can I Prepare the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. However, it’s best to cook the fritters fresh for the best texture and crispness.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a warm skillet for a few minutes on each side until they are heated through and crispy again. Enjoy!
