These easy zucchini patties are perfect for quick meals! With fresh zucchini, eggs, and a bit of flour, they come together in no time and taste so good!
I love making these on busy days. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. Plus, they make great snacks or a side dish—who doesn’t love a veggie treat? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! If zucchinis aren’t in season, you can substitute with yellow squash. They have a similar texture and flavor, so your patties will still be tasty.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor, but you can swap it for any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even a vegan cheese if you’re dairy-free.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used to bind the patties. If you need a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or chickpea flour instead—they work great!
Egg: The egg helps hold everything together. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, mix and let sit) to replace one egg.
How Do I Get the Best Consistency for My Patties?
Getting the right consistency is key for perfect zucchini patties. Start by salting the grated zucchini to draw out excess moisture. This is crucial, as it helps prevent soggy patties. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as you can after letting it sit. The mixture should be damp but not watery.
- Grate zucchinis and sprinkle with salt for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze excess moisture with a towel before mixing with other ingredients.
- Ensure the mixture binds well; if it feels too wet, add a bit more flour.
Following these tips will help your patties stay together and give you that perfect golden crispy texture you’re looking for!
Easy Zucchini Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 2 medium zucchinis, 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 fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to make these delicious zucchini patties from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grating and Salting the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis with a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, making your patties crispier!
2. Squeeze Out Excess Water:
After 10 minutes, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini. The drier your zucchini is, the better your patties will hold together.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and chopped parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it’s all combined into a cohesive mixture.
4. Heating the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
5. Forming and Cooking the Patties:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture, form small patties with your hands and place them gently in the hot oil. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through—keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
6. Draining and Serving:
Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm, either on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, like sour cream or yogurt. Enjoy your delightful zucchini patties!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
You can, but it’s best to thaw it first and drain as much water as possible. Frozen zucchini has extra moisture, so be sure to squeeze out the liquid with a towel after thawing to prevent soggy patties.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Patties?
Store any leftover zucchini patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Make These Patties Vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, set aside for a few minutes until it thickens) and use a plant-based cheese alternative instead of Parmesan.
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Patties?
These patties are versatile! Serve them as an appetizer with a yogurt dip, as a side with your main dish, or even in a sandwich or wrap. Pair them with a simple salad for a complete meal!
