These easy zucchini fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re packed with fresh zucchini and just the right amount of cheese to make every bite tasty!
Whipping these up is super simple, and they make a great snack or side dish. I love serving them with a dip—because let’s be real, everything’s better with a little dip! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are essential for these fritters. If they’re not in season, you might replace them with yellow squash. It offers a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor but if you don’t have it, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both are great alternatives!
All-Purpose Flour: The flour helps bind the fritters together. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, almond flour or coconut flour can be used instead. However, you may need to adjust the amount.
Chives: Fresh chives give an oniony flavor. If you don’t have them, green onions or parsley can be good replacements. I love adding dill for a tangy twist!
Why Is Squeezing Out Zucchini Moisture Important?
Getting rid of excess moisture from the zucchini is key for crispy fritters. If you skip this step, your fritters might end up soggy!
- After grating the zucchini, wrap it in a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible, and don’t rush this process.
The goal is to make the zucchini dry enough so that when you fry them, they turn golden brown and crispy, adding to the overall deliciousness of the fritters!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus more for garnish)
- Olive oil for frying
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes grating the zucchini and letting it sit, plus another 10 minutes frying up the fritters. Easy and quick for a tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is very important because it helps keep your fritters from getting soggy when cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with the salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help the zucchini release more moisture. After 10 minutes, add in the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, garlic powder, egg, and chopped chives. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks like a thick batter.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and drizzle a bit of olive oil in the pan. Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop some of the zucchini mixture into the hot skillet, making sure to flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon. Cook the fritters for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. They should have a lovely crunchy exterior when done!
4. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them warm, garnished with more chopped chives, and add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side if you like. Enjoy your deliciously crispy zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute with other cheeses like feta, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses may alter the texture slightly, so you might need to add a bit more flour to compensate.
What If My Zucchini Is Wet After Grating?
If your grated zucchini still seems wet after squeezing it out, give it another squeeze in the towel or let it drain in a fine mesh strainer for a few extra minutes. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be!
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just keep it covered in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, give it a good stir as some moisture might settle at the bottom.
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 in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again!
