These easy zucchini fritters are crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them a tasty treat! With just zucchini, eggs, and a bit of flour, you can whip these up in no time.
They’re perfect for sneaking some veggies into your meals. I love to dip mine in yogurt or salsa—so good! Plus, kids usually enjoy helping out with mixing. Cooking fun for everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are key here. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works great as a substitute. If they’re in season, try using shredded carrots for a different twist!
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for binding the fritters. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, use almond flour or rice flour instead. I find almond flour adds a nice nutty flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely rich flavor. Pecorino Romano can be a good substitute if you prefer something a bit sharper. Vegan cheese options are also available if you’re plant-based.
Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor. You can swap them with green onions or even parsley if chives aren’t on hand. I sometimes like to mix in a bit of dill for a fresh taste!
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Fritters Are Crispy?
The key to crispy fritters is reducing the moisture in the zucchini. After grating, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps draw out the water.
- After resting, wrap the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or use your hands to squeeze out as much moisture as you can.
- Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly with the zucchini to create a good batter consistency.
- When frying, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fritter mixture; this helps them crisp up nicely.
Make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan either, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy fritters. Fry them in batches if necessary!
Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe
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
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll spend about 30-35 minutes to whip up these crispy and tasty fritters!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate and Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle the zucchini with salt and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This helps draw out the excess moisture, making sure your fritters turn out crispy.
2. Squeeze Out Excess Moisture:
After the resting time, use your hands to squeeze out any leftover moisture from the zucchini. It’s important to get this right for the perfect fritter texture!
3. Mix the Fritter Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, garlic powder, the egg, and chopped chives. Stir everything together until well mixed and combined.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, scoop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Gently flatten each scoop with the back of the spoon to shape them into fritters.
5. Cook the Fritters:
Let the fritters cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they cook evenly!
6. Drain and Repeat:
Once cooked, carefully remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil. Repeat this step with the rest of the zucchini mixture, adding more olive oil to the skillet if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the zucchini fritters warm. Top them with extra chopped chives and a nice dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, homemade fritters!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with other cheeses like feta, mozzarella, or cheddar. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, so choose a cheese that complements your taste!
What If My Zucchini is Watery Even After Squeezing?
If your zucchini seems particularly watery, you can sprinkle a bit more salt and let it sit a few extra minutes before squeezing. Alternatively, you might try using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to help wring out more moisture effectively.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make gluten-free zucchini fritters, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, or even chickpea flour. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free, especially if you’re serving anyone with dietary restrictions!
