These crispy zucchini fritters are a quick and tasty snack! Made with fresh zucchini, flour, and a hint of cheese, they’re golden and crunchy on the outside.
Who can resist a delicious fritter? I love serving them with a dollop of yogurt or dipping sauce. Perfect for a fun appetizer or a light meal. Enjoy every bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchinis are best for these fritters. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well as a substitute. Just remember to grate it and squeeze out the moisture too!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives these fritters the perfect texture, but you can switch to whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a different spin. Just adjust the amount as needed to achieve the right consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. Cheddar also adds a nice touch for a sharper taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor, but if you prefer mildness, you can reduce the amount or use garlic powder instead. Just use 1/4 teaspoon if you want a subtle garlic flavor.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a nice freshness and color. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it or substitute with other herbs like cilantro or chives!
How Do You Get Crispy Zucchini Fritters Every Time?
The secret to crispy fritters lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to do it right:
- After grating the zucchini and salting it, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out moisture.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Think of it like wringing out a sponge!
- Don’t skip this step; the drier the zucchini, the crispier the fritters will be. You can even refrigerate the drained mixture for 30 minutes to help further!
- When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, the fritters will sog up instead of crisping up. Aim for medium heat – adjust as needed!
Crispy Zucchini Fritters Easy and Delicious
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 600g), grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. You’ll be enjoying these crispy zucchini fritters in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a colander. Sprinkle them with salt and toss to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out the moisture, which is essential for making your fritters crispy.
2. Squeezing Out Liquid:
Next, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth and wrap it around the grated zucchini. Squeeze tightly to remove as much liquid as possible. Getting rid of the excess moisture is key to that delightful crispy texture!
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, black pepper, and parsley (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed—this will be your fritter mixture!
4. Heating the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough that a small drop of the fritter mixture sizzles when it hits the pan, but not smoking.
5. Frying the Fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture for each fritter and flatten it slightly with your hand. Carefully place each fritter into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Draining and Serving:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve these warm with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious crispy zucchini fritters!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Other Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While medium zucchinis are preferred, you can also use yellow squash or even small marrow squash. Just make sure to grate and squeeze out their moisture like you would with zucchini.
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You might need to adjust the amount slightly to get the right consistency, so start with a small amount and add more if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy!
Can I Freeze the Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze these fritters! Once cooked and cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Just reheat in the oven or skillet until crispy when you’re ready to enjoy!
