These easy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a hit for both kids and adults.
Plus, they’re super simple to whip up. I like to eat them with a dollop of yogurt or some salsa. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra to share—or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are ideal. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great substitute as it has a similar texture and flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar and Parmesan are both tasty choices. For a twist, try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor. Vegans can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but gluten-free flour blends can be used for a gluten-free version. Just note that the texture may vary a bit.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. If you’re vegan or allergic, a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes) can work well.
How Can You Make Sure Your Zucchini Fritters Aren’t Soggy?
One common issue with zucchini fritters is excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess. To prevent this, draining the grated zucchini is key. The salt helps draw out moisture effectively!
- Grate the zucchinis and sprinkle with salt, then let them sit for around 10 minutes.
- After resting, use a clean towel to squeeze out as much water as possible. The more moisture you remove, the crunchier your fritters will be!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for draining zucchini)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or parmesan)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives or parsley, chopped
- Sour cream or yogurt (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and another 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy zucchini!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchini into a bowl. Sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out extra moisture so your fritters can be nice and crispy!
2. Drain the Zucchini:
After 10 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels. Use it to squeeze out as much moisture as you can from the zucchini. This step is important for the best texture in your fritters!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with flour, shredded cheese, the egg, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if you’re using it. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly combined and form a nice batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil so the fritters can crisp up nicely. Wait until the oil is hot before moving to the next step!
5. Cook the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop some of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Flatten it slightly to form a fritter shape. Repeat this step with the rest of the mixture, but be careful not to overcrowd the pan. You can cook them in batches if needed.
6. Fry Until Golden:
Let the fritters cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and crispy! Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Drain the Oil:
Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fritters warm, garnished with chopped chives or parsley, and a nice dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side. You’re all set to enjoy a tasty treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While medium green zucchinis are the most common, you can also use yellow zucchini or even pattypan squash. Just make sure to follow the same process of salting and draining to ensure the fritters come out perfectly!
What Can I Substitute for All-Purpose Flour?
If you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour works great! Just be mindful that the texture might change slightly. You may need to adjust the amount slightly, so start with the same amount and add more if the batter seems too loose.
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side, or you can use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Fritter Mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other shredded veggies like carrots or bell peppers. You can also mix in fresh herbs like dill or basil for extra flavor. Just ensure the total volume of vegetables doesn’t overwhelm the binding agents (like egg and flour).
