Easy Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a few simple spices, these little bites are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
They make a great snack or side dish for any meal. I love to dip them in yogurt or salsa—yum! Plus, they’re a fun way to sneak in some greens. Give them a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of this dish. Aim for medium-sized ones as they have the right balance of moisture and flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you could try using yellow squash or even grated carrots for a different twist.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the fritters together. If you need a gluten-free option, try almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just keep in mind the texture may be slightly different.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a savory kick. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor or go for nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Egg: The egg provides structure. If you want to make these vegetarian or egg-free, a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) works well.
How Do I Prevent My Zucchini Fritters from Being Soggy?
One of the most common issues with zucchini fritters is that they can end up too wet. The trick is to squeeze out as much moisture from the grated zucchini as possible. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze tightly to release excess moisture — think of it like wringing out a sponge!
- Let the zucchini sit for a few minutes after squeezing to ensure you got most of the water out.
This step is really important for getting those fritters nice and crispy! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to whip up these delicious zucchini fritters!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchini using a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is super important for preventing soggy fritters. You want them to be nice and crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your drained zucchini, salt, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped green onions, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be a bit thick but not too dry.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten them a little. Fry the fritters for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve these tasty morsels warm, garnished with fresh chives, and alongside sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping if you like. Enjoy your deliciously crispy zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in Zucchini Fritters?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a great flavor, you can use other cheeses like feta, cheddar, or mozzarella. Just ensure that the cheese is finely grated or crumbled to help it mix evenly with the batter.
What If My Zucchini Fritters Are Too Wet?
If your zucchini fritters seem too wet, make sure you’ve thoroughly squeezed out the excess moisture from the grated zucchini. Additionally, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour to help absorb any remaining moisture before frying.
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again!
Can I Make Zucchini Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just give it a good stir before cooking!
