These crispy zucchini patties make for a fun and tasty snack! Packed with grated zucchini, they are golden on the outside and soft on the inside.
I love making these for a quick bite, and they’re so easy to whip up! Plus, the fact that they’re baked makes them a guilt-free treat! Who can resist a yummy snack like this? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis work best for this recipe. If you don’t have zucchini, try substituting with grated carrots or yellow squash. They’ll add a different flavor but still yield great texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a delicious flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy hint, or omit it altogether and add more spices to boost flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko breadcrumbs because they add a great crunch. However, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers in a pinch. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and flavor. If it’s not available, feel free to use dill or basil instead, or skip it if you prefer.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Zucchini Patties?
The secret to perfectly crispy zucchini patties lies in removing excess moisture. Grating the zucchini and squeezing it dry is crucial. Water will make the patties soggy instead of crispy.
- Start by grating the zucchinis and placing them in a towel. Squeeze firmly over the sink to remove water.
- Once you’ve mixed your ingredients, don’t overcrowd the skillet; cooking in batches ensures they fry evenly.
- Use enough oil. This helps the patties crisp up nicely. Heat the oil until it’s shimmering before adding patties.
Following these tips will lead to delicious, crispy zucchini patties that are sure to be a hit!
Crispy Zucchini Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crispiness)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing your zucchinis well. Then, using a coarse grater, grate the zucchinis into a bowl. To remove excess water—which is key for crispy patties—place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can over the sink. This step is essential for achieving that nice crispy texture!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained grated zucchini. Then sprinkle in the salt, add the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, black pepper, and onion powder. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the Patties:
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into patties. Aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
4. Fry the Patties:
In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you want it to shimmer), carefully place the patties in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you can cook in batches if needed. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when flipping them!
5. Drain and Serve:
Once they’re cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy. Serve the zucchini patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy mayo.
Enjoy these crispy zucchini patties as an easy and delicious snack! They’re perfect for sharing—or not! 😊
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Patties
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for optimal texture and crispness. However, if you must use frozen zucchini, thaw it first, then drain and squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly before mixing it into your batter.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Just consider that the flavor profile will change slightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover zucchini patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven for best results to maintain their crispiness!
Can I Make These Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Just cover them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This can help the flavors meld together even more! Fry them just before serving for the best texture.
