These crispy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Packed with shredded zucchini, cheese, and herbs, they are fried to golden perfection—yum!
Trust me, they’ll disappear fast! I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. They’re so good; it’s hard to eat just one (or two, or three)! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key here. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash can be a good substitute. Both have similar moisture content and flavor, making them perfect for fritters!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk. You could also use a different hard cheese, like pecorino.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but you can also use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends if you need a healthier or gluten-free option.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is optional but adds a lovely freshness. Feel free to swap it with basil, chives, or even cilantro for a different flavor kick!
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini Fritters Are Crispy?
Getting your fritters crispy can be tricky if there’s too much moisture in the zucchini. Always salt and squeeze out the excess moisture before mixing. This step is crucial!
- Grate your zucchini and sprinkle it with salt, letting it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Using a kitchen towel, wring out as much water as possible. The drier, the better!
- When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Also, adjust the oil temperature! You want it hot enough to fry, but not so hot that the fritters burn before cooking through.
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 1 pound), grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have delicious crispy zucchini fritters ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a large bowl. Sprinkle them with salt and mix well. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out the moisture from the zucchini. After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth and squeeze the zucchini to remove as much water as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be!
2. Make the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, parsley (if using), black pepper, and baking powder. Stir until everything is well combined. Then, fold in the squeezed zucchini. Mix well to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Fry the Fritters:
Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture into the skillet for each fritter. Use a spatula to lightly flatten each fritter.
4. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they are golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. When they’re done, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
5. Repeat and Serve:
Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches, adding more oil to the skillet as needed. You want enough oil to maintain the frying temperature. Once all fritters are cooked, serve them warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side, if desired.
Enjoy your crispy zucchini fritters! They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for this recipe. Frozen zucchini often contains too much moisture and can lead to soggy fritters. If you must use frozen zucchini, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before using.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free zucchini fritters, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also try using almond flour or chickpea flour for a different flavor and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Add Other Ingredients or Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper or paprika for some heat, or mix in other ingredients like grated carrots, corn, or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
