These crispy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to enjoy your veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, a bit of flour, and spices, they’re golden and crunchy on the outside.
Who knew healthy could be this fun? I love pairing them with a dip, like yogurt or salsa. They disappear quickly, so grab some while you can! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini gives these fritters their foundation. If you’re short on zucchini, you can substitute with yellow squash or even carrots. They’ll add a lovely flavor and crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: For that savory bite, Parmesan is fantastic. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute, giving a similar cheesy flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for binding. For gluten-free needs, try almond flour or chickpea flour which can hold the fritters together nicely while adding some unique flavors.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a fresh taste to the fritters. If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil or cilantro can be good alternatives for a different twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Fritters Are Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness is key. The trick starts with removing moisture from your zucchini. After grating, squeeze out as much liquid as you can. It keeps the fritters from becoming soggy during cooking.
- After squeezing, let the zucchini rest with salt for 10 minutes before squeezing again.
- Use enough oil in your skillet and ensure it’s hot before adding fritters. If the oil isn’t hot, they’ll absorb more oil and lose that crunch!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Frying in batches gives each fritter room to cook evenly.
Following these tips will help you achieve deliciously crispy zucchini fritters every time! Enjoy cooking!
Crispy Zucchini Fritters Easy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 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 ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. In total, give yourself around 30 minutes to whip up these delicious fritters. They’re quick to prepare, and the result is oh-so-worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate and Squeeze the Zucchini:
Start by washing and 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. Getting rid of the extra water is key for crispy fritters!
2. Prepare the Mixture:
Next, transfer the squeezed zucchini to a mixing bowl. Add the salt and toss it together. Let it sit for about 10 minutes—this helps draw out even more moisture. Afterward, give it one more good squeeze to remove any leftovers.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! To the zucchini, mix in the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder (if you want fluffier fritters), and chopped parsley for extra freshness. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet. Once hot, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture for each fritter, and gently flatten them into patties as you place them in the skillet.
5. Fry Until Golden Brown:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the heat; adjust it as needed to avoid burning. You might need to work in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This step keeps them crispy!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy zucchini fritters warm, and consider pairing them with sour cream, yogurt, or your favorite dip. Enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking! 🥒✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to mix it up, you can use grated carrots, yellow squash, or sweet potatoes in place of some or all of the zucchini. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture as you would with zucchini for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with any hard cheese you have on hand, like pecorino or even a vegan cheese substitute for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast is a great choice for adding a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to bring back some crispiness or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Freeze Zucchini Fritters?
Yes! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or skillet when you’re ready to enjoy!
