These easy zucchini fritters are perfect for a quick snack! Made with fresh zucchini, eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese, they are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
I love whipping these up when I’m craving something tasty. They cook fast, and you can eat them plain or dip them in your favorite sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the fritters. Choose firm, fresh zucchini. If you’re out of zucchini, you could use yellow squash as a great alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy taste. For a different flavor, try feta or cheddar instead.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can use whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or chickpea flour can also be used successfully!
Egg: The egg holds the fritters together. If you’re vegan or allergic, try a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground seeds + 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit to thicken).
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Fritters Aren’t Soggy?
One common challenge with zucchini fritters is excess moisture. To prevent sogginess, follow these steps:
- Salt the grated zucchini to draw out moisture, then let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Really get it dry!
- Cook over medium heat, so they have time to crisp up without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed for even frying!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy fritters every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, 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
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Olive oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or yogurt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 30 minutes to have delicious zucchini fritters ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Begin by grating the zucchinis. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out the excess moisture, which is key for crispy fritters!
2. Squeeze Out the Water:
After resting, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and bundle the zucchini. Squeeze out as much liquid as you can. This step is crucial; the drier your zucchini, the better your fritters will turn out!
3. Mix the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and parsley (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until you have a well-mixed batter.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Place a skillet over medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Let the oil heat up; you want it nice and hot so that the fritters fry evenly.
5. Form the Fritters:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each fritter, scoop it into the hot skillet and flatten it slightly with the back of your spoon. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; only make a few at a time!
6. Cook Until Golden:
Let the fritters cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the zucchini fritters warm, with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt if you’d like. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer that everyone will love!
Enjoy your quick and tasty zucchini fritters!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like carrots or yellow squash. Just ensure they are properly drained to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free substitute like almond flour or chickpea flour. They will hold together beautifully!
Can I Make Zucchini Fritters in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before frying, as the ingredients may settle. You can also cook the fritters in advance and reheat them in a skillet or oven to keep them crispy.
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, warm them on a skillet or in the oven for best results, avoiding the microwave if you want to maintain crispiness.