These Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With grated zucchini mixed in a simple batter, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside. Yum!
Making these fritters is so fun! I love serving them with a little dipping sauce on the side—a perfect snack or side dish. Plus, my family gobbles them up every time! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of the dish! Fresh, firm zucchinis work best. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great alternative. Just be sure to grate it and remove excess moisture like you do with zucchini.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the easiest to use, but you can switch to whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free all-purpose blend or almond flour instead!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit it entirely for just veggies.
Egg: The egg helps bind the mixture together. For a vegan substitute, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce.
How Do I Make My Zucchini Fritters Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy fritters is removing as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini and mix it with salt, letting it rest for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze the zucchini with a clean kitchen towel to eliminate excess water before mixing it into your batter.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Give each fritter some space in the skillet for even cooking.
These tips should help you enjoy perfectly crispy zucchini fritters every time!
Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For Frying:
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a crispy, tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing and grating the zucchinis with a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes. This step helps to pull out the excess moisture!
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After 10 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth. Use it to squeeze and remove as much liquid from the zucchini as you can. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and parsley (if using). Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Your batter is now ready!
4. Heat the Oil:
Grab a large skillet and heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
5. Form the Fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture and shape it into a small patty. Place the patties carefully into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
6. Cook the Fritters:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will keep them crispy!
8. Enjoy!
Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if you like. Enjoy your crispy, delicious zucchini fritters!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While green zucchini is the most common choice, yellow squash can be used as a great alternative. Just be sure to grate and squeeze out the moisture similarly.
What Can I Use Instead of Eggs?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, consider using a flax egg—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the fritters just like an egg would!
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, heat them in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Zucchini Fritters?
Yes, you can! Let them cool completely, then place the fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated directly from frozen by baking or pan-frying!
