These Easy Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to use fresh zucchini! They are lightly crispy on the outside and soft and yummy on the inside. Perfect for a snack or a side dish!
I love how quick they are to whip up. Just mix, pan-fry, and enjoy! Your taste buds will thank you, and your kids might even forget they’re eating veggies! 🥒😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are the star of this dish. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works as a great alternative. I’ve also used a mix for added color and flavor!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure to the fritters. For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or chickpea flour, which adds nice flavor too!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free version, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. I sometimes mix in a little feta for extra zest!
Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, scallions or green onions are excellent substitutes. You can also use dried chives, but the fresh ones are more vibrant.
Olive Oil: For frying, use olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. If you’re looking for a higher smoke point, feel free to use avocado oil instead. It holds up well to frying.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Zucchini Fritters?
The key to crispy fritters lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. If you skip this step, your fritters can turn out soggy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Grate the zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit in a colander for about 10 minutes.
- After resting, take a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze the zucchini tightly, extracting as much liquid as possible.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the fritter mixture; this helps to create a crispy crust.
- Cook the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the oil temperature.
With these tips, you’re sure to make deliciously crispy zucchini fritters every time! Enjoy their flavor and crunch.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Sour cream or yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll spend some time draining the zucchini and frying the fritters, so get ready for some deliciousness in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Once you have your grated zucchini, put it into a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out the excess moisture, which is important for crispy fritters!
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After 10 minutes, it’s time to get rid of as much moisture as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze the grated zucchini until it’s fairly dry. The drier it is, the crispier your fritters will be. This step is key!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, black pepper, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You should have a nice, thick mixture ready to cook.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, use a spoon to drop dollops of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form fritters. It’s best to cook them in batches, so don’t crowd the pan!
5. Cook Until Crispy:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, and flip them carefully to avoid breaking apart.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them delicious and light.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your zucchini fritters warm, garnished with more chopped chives on top and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side. Dig in and enjoy your crunchy, tasty fritters!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with grated carrots, yellow squash, or even grated sweet potatoes for a different twist. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture as you do with zucchini to keep the fritters crispy.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can use any hard cheese like pecorino or cheddar as a substitute. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative, adjusting to taste since they may vary in flavor intensity.
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, give it a stir, as some moisture may settle at the bottom.
How Should I 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, ensuring they regain their crispiness.
