These crispy zucchini patties are the perfect healthy snack! Made with fresh zucchini, breadcrumbs, and a touch of cheese, they are crunchy on the outside and tender inside.
Honestly, I can munch on these all day! They’re super easy to whip up, and the kids love helping out in the kitchen. Pair them with your favorite dip for a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium-sized zucchinis are the star here. If you can’t find zucchinis, consider using yellow squash or even grated carrots for a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely nutty flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano for something sharper or a vegan cheese if you’re dairy-free.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the patties together. Gluten-free flour can work too, but check that it’s a mix that’s suitable for baking.
Breadcrumbs: I love panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch, but any breadcrumbs will work. If you want a low-carb option, try crushed almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Egg: This helps bind the mixture. If you’re vegan or egg-free, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) instead.
How Do I Prevent Soggy Zucchini Patties?
To keep your patties crispy, it’s crucial to remove as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. After grating, sprinkle with salt and let them drain in a colander for about 15 minutes. This will help pull out excess water.
- Don’t skip squeezing the zucchini in a clean towel afterward. The dryer, the better!
- Shaping the patties tightly helps them hold together while frying.
- Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of frying.
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy zucchini patties recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. That adds up to around 30-35 minutes total from start to finish! It’s a quick and easy snack that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis and placing them in a colander. Sprinkle the grated zucchinis with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture, ensuring your patties stay crispy when cooked.
2. Squeeze Out Excess Liquid:
After 15 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth. Use it to squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchinis as you can. This step is really important to prevent soggy patties!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if using), black pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and forms a cohesive mixture.
4. Shape the Patties:
Take a scoop of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Repeat this process until you’ve used all of the mixture.
5. Coat with Breadcrumbs:
Put the breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. Take each patty and gently coat it in the breadcrumbs, making sure both sides are covered for that extra crunch!
6. Fry the Patties:
Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the patties onto paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step will help keep them crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy zucchini patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like sour cream, tzatziki, or marinara. Enjoy your tasty and healthy snack!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Patties
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini if it’s thawed and excess moisture is properly drained. Just remember to squeeze out as much liquid as possible as frozen zucchini tends to have more water content.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Patties?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Patties?
Absolutely! For a healthier version, place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
