These easy zucchini fritters make a perfect snack! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, plus they’re packed with deliciousness from fresh zucchini and just a few spices.
I’m always amazed at how quick they are to whip up! I love serving them with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream on the side. It’s like a little party in your mouth! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for the fritters’ flavor and texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works just as well. You can even mix in some grated carrots for added color and sweetness!
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for binding, but if you’re gluten-free, almond flour or a gluten-free mix can be used instead. Just keep in mind it may change the texture a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely savory bite. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a similar flavor without the cheese. Just use a little less since it’s more concentrated.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything together. If you’re vegan or allergic, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit until thickened) works as a great substitute.
How Do I Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini?
Getting rid of the excess moisture is crucial for crispy fritters. Grating the zucchini creates lots of surface area, which helps with that!
- After grating, sprinkle with salt and let it rest in a colander for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze out the moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. The drier the zucchini, the better your fritters will be!
Keep this step in mind to ensure your fritters turn out deliciously crispy every time! Good luck and enjoy snacking! 🎉
Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 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 black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or yogurt, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking. So you can enjoy crispy zucchini fritters in just about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater. Once grated, place the zucchini into a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process will draw out excess moisture and help your fritters stay crisp!
2. Squeeze Out Moisture:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or a piece of cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much liquid as you can from the zucchini. You want it to be dry so your fritters don’t become soggy.
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, 1/4 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and chopped parsley (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of olive oil or vegetable oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet but not too much that the fritters get submerged.
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a scoop or spoon, take about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter and drop it into the hot oil. Flatten it slightly with a spatula to form small patties. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the Fritters:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This will keep them nice and crispy!
7. Serve:
Enjoy the fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side if desired. They’re perfect as a snack or a light meal!
Enjoy your quick and tasty zucchini fritters! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time! Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before cooking. It’s best to fry them fresh for the best texture, but prepped batter makes it super convenient!
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use grated Pecorino cheese for a similar savory flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works great, too—just use a little less for the right flavor balance!
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness instead of the microwave, which may make them soggy!
Can I Freeze the Fritters?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked fritters. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag separated by parchment paper. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Reheat them straight from the freezer in the oven or air fryer for a quick snack!
