These easy zucchini fritters are crunchy and delicious! Made with fresh zucchini, some flour, and a sprinkle of cheese, they make a tasty snack or side.
They’re so simple to whip up! I love to eat them hot off the pan, sometimes with a dollop of yogurt. You might just find yourself making a double batch! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This vegetable is the star of the dish! Fresh medium zucchinis work best because they’re tender and flavorful. If zucchinis are not available, you can use yellow squash for a similar taste and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful umami flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Aged pecorino Romano is also a good substitute if you want something a bit sharper.
Flour: All-purpose flour binds the fritters. For gluten-free versions, almond flour or chickpea flour makes great alternatives. They add a unique taste while keeping the fritters light.
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor. If you don’t have any, regular onions or shallots work well, just use them sparingly as they are stronger in taste.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both are perfect for dipping! You can replace them with a dairy-free yogurt if needed. For an extra kick, try mixed-in herbs or a little lemon juice.
How Do I Keep My Zucchini Fritters From Being Soggy?
Getting the right moisture level is key to making crispy fritters! Start by grating the zucchinis and then wrap them in a clean towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial because excess moisture can lead to soggy fritters.
- After squeezing, sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This draws out even more moisture.
- Once rested, remember to mix the remaining ingredients quickly. If you let the mixture sit too long, it may become watery.
Using a hot skillet and plenty of oil during frying will also help achieve that golden-brown crispiness!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Olive oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you can enjoy these delicious zucchini fritters in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is essential to keep your fritters nice and crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out even more moisture from the zucchini. After 10 minutes, add in the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, black pepper, garlic powder, and chopped green onions. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture, shape it into a fritter, and gently place it into the skillet. Repeat this with the remaining mixture, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Fry Until Golden:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. When they’re done, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm zucchini fritters topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt, and sprinkle fresh chives on top for a tasty garnish. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with other cheeses like feta, cheddar, or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the flavor and texture slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Make These Zucchini Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour. The texture may vary a bit, but you’ll still get tasty fritters!
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time! Just mix it all together but don’t cook them. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Just give it a good stir before cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover zucchini 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 and crispy again. You can also use an oven for a crispy finish!
