These crispy zucchini fritters are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! They’re packed with shredded zucchini and just the right spices, making them a crunchy delight.
I love how easy they are to whip up—just mix, fry, and enjoy! Plus, they’re perfect for dipping. Who doesn’t appreciate a little crunch in their day? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis work best here. If you’re in a pinch, substitute with yellow squash for a slightly different flavor but similar texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the go-to for binding. If you need a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice savory kick. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. For a vegan version, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) as a substitute.
Green Onions: While optional, they add a nice mild onion flavor. You can also use regular onions or chives if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Fritters Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy fritters lies in removing moisture from the zucchini. Follow these steps to ensure your fritters are perfectly crispy:
- Grate the zucchini, then sprinkle it with salt. This process draws out moisture, which is important for crunch.
- After letting it sit, thoroughly squeeze the zucchini to get rid of as much water as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be!
- Fry in a hot skillet with enough oil to create a crispy crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each fritter room to fry evenly.
- Finally, place cooked fritters on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have deliciously crispy zucchini fritters every time!
Crispy Zucchini Fritters Made Easy and Delicious
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. Once you’re done, you can enjoy your delicious fritters right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate and Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating your zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, place them into a colander. Sprinkle the zucchinis with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, which is key for crispy fritters.
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After the zucchinis have sat, grab a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth. Place the grated zucchini in the towel and squeeze it tightly to remove as much liquid as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will turn out!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with the flour, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, green onions (if you’re using them), black pepper, and baking powder. Stir everything together until well mixed. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet.
4. Heat the Oil:
Pour about 2 tablespoons of oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that it shimmers but isn’t smoking, ready for frying the fritters.
5. Shape and Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture for each fritter. Carefully place them in the heated skillet and gently flatten them to form patties. Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to fry in batches.
6. Cook Until Golden Brown:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat if they are cooking too quickly or not enough.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This will keep them crispy!
8. Enjoy Your Fritters!
Serve the zucchini fritters warm, with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping if you’d like. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack!
Enjoy your crispy, delicious zucchini fritters!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make the fritters gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious!
What Should I Do with Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again. You can also use a microwave, but they may become a bit soft.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other grated vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture, just like with the zucchini, for the best results.
