These easy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to use up those summer zucchinis! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them super fun to eat.
They’re perfect as a snack or a side dish. I love dipping them in some yogurt sauce—it’s a great combo! Plus, they’re so quick to whip up that even I can’t mess them up! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this dish. If zucchinis are out of season, yellow squash can make a great substitute. I love using a mix of both for added color!
Flour: All-purpose flour is classic for binding ingredients. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or oat flour are excellent alternatives that work well too.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely, salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast which gives a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Chives: Fresh chives bring a mild onion flavor. If you can’t find them, use green onions or even parsley for a different twist. I sometimes even mix in a bit of dill for an extra kick!
Olive oil: It’s great for frying but feel free to use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer something with a higher smoke point.
How Do I Get the Zucchini Fritters Crispy?
Getting your fritters crispy is all about moisture control. After grating the zucchini, it’s important to remove as much excess water as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and really squeeze it dry before mixing with other ingredients.
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a towel. Squeeze firmly to extract moisture.
- Mix the ingredients well but don’t overwork the mixture to keep it light.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding fritters. A good test is to drop a bit of the mixture into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (or green onions)
- Olive oil for frying
- Sour cream or yogurt for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have delicious, crispy zucchini fritters ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze it tightly to remove as much moisture as possible. This helps your fritters stay crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with salt, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, black pepper, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want a nice, thick mixture!
3. Heat the Pan:
Now, place a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Wait until the oil gets hot, and you’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers a bit!
4. Cook the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form patties. Cook each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip them over once they’re golden brown and crispy. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them nice and crispy! Serve them warm, and if you’d like, add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top for an extra tasty treat. Enjoy your delicious zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a nice flavor, you can substitute with other cheeses like feta for a tangy twist, or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so adjust the flour if necessary to keep your fritters from becoming too wet.
What If My Zucchini is Too Watery?
If your zucchini is particularly watery, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible with a kitchen towel. You can also sprinkle a bit more salt and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before squeezing, as this helps draw out extra moisture. Just be careful not to add too much additional flour later!
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free zucchini fritters, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or almond flour. If using almond flour, you might need to adjust the quantity slightly or add an extra egg to help bind the ingredients together.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, give it a quick stir, as some moisture might settle at the bottom. This helps ensure your fritters stay crispy when cooked!
