These easy zucchini fritters are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your veggies! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a great snack or side dish.
Whenever I make them, I can’t resist going back for seconds. They’re simple to whip up—just mix, fry, and enjoy! Perfect for hiding those extra veggies from the kids too! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Look for firm, unblemished zucchinis. If you can’t find them, yellow squash works as a great substitute.
Flour: All-purpose flour is typical, but you could use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be good alternatives, or you could try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Green Onions/Chives: These add freshness! If you don’t have them, regular onions or garlic can work too. Fresh herbs, like parsley, can give a nice twist as well!
Eggs: They bind the mixture together. If you’re vegan or allergic, use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) instead.
How Do You Get Rid of Excess Moisture in Zucchini?
Draining excess moisture from zucchini is crucial for crunchy fritters. Otherwise, you’ll end up with soggy ones! Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchinis and sprinkle with salt, letting them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out moisture.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze the zucchinis, removing as much liquid as possible. The drier, the better!
This step makes a big difference in achieving that perfect crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Zucchini Fritters?
Frying can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Use a non-stick skillet and make sure the oil is hot before adding the fritters. You can test this by dropping a small amount of the mixture into the oil; it should sizzle.
- Fry in batches, ensuring enough space between fritters to cook evenly. Overcrowding can steam them, resulting in a soggy texture.
- Adjust heat if necessary—medium heat is usually best. You want them golden brown without burning.
Let the fritters rest on a paper towel-lined plate after frying to absorb any excess oil. Enjoy your crispy delights!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt (for zucchini)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions or chives, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable or olive oil)
For Serving:
- Sour cream or yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 30 minutes to make delicious zucchini fritters! It’s quick, easy, and a perfect snack or side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Once they are grated, place the zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out any excess moisture, making your fritters crispier!
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After the zucchini has sat for 10 minutes, it’s time to get rid of that water! Grab the towel and squeeze the zucchini until you’ve removed as much liquid as possible. Then, transfer the drained zucchini into a mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
To the bowl of zucchini, add the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions or chives, eggs, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s all nicely combined. This creates a delicious mix for your fritters!
4. Heat the Skillet:
Grab a non-stick skillet or frying pan and heat it over medium heat. Add a little oil, just enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Let it heat up until it’s ready for frying!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Once the oil is hot, it’s time to cook! Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if needed.
6. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary so they don’t burn. You want them perfectly cooked and delicious!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
When the fritters are done, carefully remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will help drain any extra oil, keeping them crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your zucchini fritters warm, and if you’d like, top them with sour cream or yogurt. You can even sprinkle on some additional chopped chives for garnish. Enjoy your tasty fritters!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with grated carrots, squash, or even a mix of grated vegetables for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require similar moisture extraction to avoid soggy fritters.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb moisture. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make these fritters gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Additionally, check that your baking powder (if you choose to add it) is also gluten-free to ensure the entire dish meets dietary needs.
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Fritters?
Zucchini fritters are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a variety of dips like sour cream or yogurt, tzatziki, or even salsa. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a side to grilled meats for a well-rounded meal.
