These crispy zucchini and carrot fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! They’re easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a snack or a side dish.
Whenever I make these, I always forget how much everyone loves them! They’re great dipped in sauce or even on their own. Plus, they disappear fast—so be ready to make a double batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: I recommend using medium-sized zucchinis, as they have the right amount of water and flavor. If zucchini is scarce, you can substitute with yellow squash for a similar taste and texture.
Carrots: Fresh carrots are key for sweetness. If you want, you can also use pre-grated carrots from the store to save time, though fresh is always tastier!
Flour: All-purpose flour works great. If you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour as an alternative, but know it might slightly change the texture.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, Parmesan adds a nice depth to the fritters. You can swap it with another hard cheese like Pecorino or omit it for a dairy-free version.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds freshness. You can also try dill or basil for a different flavor depending on your tastes.
How Do I Make Sure My Fritters Are Crispy?
Getting that crispy texture is all about controlling the moisture in your veggies. Here’s how to do it:
- After grating the zucchini, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel and twist to squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This is key!
- Let the mixed veggies sit with salt for about 10 minutes to draw out more moisture, and then squeeze again if needed.
- When frying, ensure your oil is hot before adding the fritters. A medium heat works well to cook them evenly without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry a few at a time, so they have space to cook properly, making them extra crispy!
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Carrot Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for prep, plus about 15 minutes of cooking time. So you can expect a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful dish to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by grating the zucchinis and carrots using a box grater. Once you have them grated, put the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This is very important for getting your fritters crispy!
2. Season and Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini and carrots with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to pull out more moisture. After that, give them another squeeze if there’s still water present. Then, add in the flour, grated Parmesan (if you’re using it), egg, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and chopped herbs. Stir everything together until it forms a well-mixed batter.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Next, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil is heating, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the fritter mixture and shape it into small patties. Carefully place them in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Fry Until Golden:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat to avoid burning them. Once done, use a slotted spatula to remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce! They go wonderfully with sour cream, yogurt dip, or even a zesty salsa. Enjoy your delicious crispy zucchini carrot fritters!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Carrot Fritters
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a good stir before frying, as the ingredients may settle.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze These Fritters?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, cook them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Fritters?
These fritters are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces! Sour cream, Greek yogurt dip, or a spicy salsa are great choices. You can also try a little garlic aioli for something extra special!
