These Easy Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to enjoy your veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, eggs, and a bit of flour, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside.
They’re perfect as a snack or a side dish. I love dipping them in a bit of yogurt or sauce—yum! Plus, you can whip them up in no time, making it a winner for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star ingredient for these fritters! Choose medium zucchinis for the best flavor and moisture balance. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use yellow squash as a tasty alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well here to bind the fritters. If gluten-free is your goal, try using chickpea flour or almond flour; both add unique flavors too!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can give a similar cheesy taste.
Egg: Acts as a binder for the fritters. For a vegan option, you can substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes).
Green Onions: They add a fresh kick. Regular onions can be used if that’s what you have on hand, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering flavors.
How Do I Properly Drain Zucchini for Fritters?
Draining zucchini is critical to prevent soggy fritters. When you sprinkle salt on grated zucchini, it draws out moisture, making it easier to remove excess liquid.
- Grate zucchini and let it sit with salt for 10 minutes.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to wrap the zucchini, then twist and squeeze to get rid of as much water as possible.
This technique ensures your fritters turn out crispy instead of mushy, which I’ve learned from experience!
How to Make 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 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Olive oil for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or yogurt (optional)
- Chopped chives or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious zucchini fritters in about 30-35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a bowl. Sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step is important as the salt will help draw out excess moisture from the zucchini.
2. Drain the Zucchini:
After 10 minutes, it’s time to drain the zucchini. Place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze it tightly to remove as much water as you can. This will help the fritters hold together better.
3. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic (if you’re using it), black pepper, and onion powder. Mix everything together well until you have a nice, cohesive mixture.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture into the skillet. Gently flatten each scoop with the back of the spoon to form fritters. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; you can cook them in batches if needed.
5. Cooking to Perfection:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them and adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning. Flip them carefully to keep their shape.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them nice and crispy!
7. Garnish & Enjoy:
Serve these warm zucchini fritters with sour cream or yogurt on the side for dipping. You can also garnish them with chopped chives or parsley for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious and easy zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with grated cheddar or feta cheese for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so adjust the flour as needed to maintain a good binding.
How Do I Keep Zucchini Fritters From Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy fritters, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible after salting. Additionally, using a good amount of oil during frying can help achieve that crispy texture. It’s also important to not overcrowd the pan, allowing each fritter enough space to cook evenly.
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the fritter mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as some of the moisture might settle at the bottom.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.
