Zucchini Fritters

Whenever I’m in the mood for something crisp and savory, Zucchini Fritters come to my mind. It’s one of those dishes that reminds me of sunny afternoons spent with family in the kitchen. The aroma of frying zucchini fills the air, and I can’t help but get excited. Every bite of these fritters is a burst of flavors, combining the freshness of zucchini with aromatic herbs. They’re perfect as a snack or a light meal, and they’re incredibly easy to whip up. My kids love them too, often asking for a little extra crunch on the side of their sandwiches. Honestly, there’s something special about watching them gobble these up with delight, and it makes me feel like a culinary hero. Plus, these fritters not only taste amazing, but they also provide a wonderful way to use up that summer zucchini bounty. Give them a try, and I’m sure they’ll become a household favorite!

Main Ingredients for Zucchini Fritters

When it comes to crafting the perfect Zucchini Fritters, the ingredients you choose play a pivotal role. The star of the show, of course, is the fresh zucchini, which adds moisture and a subtle sweetness. Other ingredients like eggs, flour, and fresh herbs work harmoniously to bind everything and enhance the flavor profile. Together, they create a delightful balance that results in a crispy exterior and a tender inside.

• 2 pounds zucchini, washed and grated and tossed in a bowl with 1 teaspoon salt: The star ingredient, zucchini provides moisture and a subtle sweetness. Salt helps to draw out excess water, ensuring crispy fritters.
• 2 large eggs: These act as a binder, holding the fritters together and adding richness.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the zucchini.
• 1/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of sweetness and crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a deeper layer of flavor that is simply irresistible.
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian herbs: A mix of basil, rosemary, and oregano elevates the taste and brings a fresh, aromatic quality.
• 1/3 cup unbleached all-purpose flour: The perfect amount of flour to help bind the mixture without making it dense.
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the zucchini.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the flavors and adds a touch of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures the fritters are light and fluffy.
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A pinch of this warm spice adds depth to the flavor.
• Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crispy, golden-brown exterior.

Making Zucchini Fritters

The magic of making Zucchini Fritters lies in the technique. It’s all about getting that right balance of moisture and crunch. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating the perfect fritters!

1. Start by grating the zucchini. I usually prefer to use a box grater for this task. Once grated, place the zucchini in a bowl and sprinkle it with 1 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial, as it draws out excess moisture, which can make or break the crispy texture of your fritters. Allow it to rest for about 30 minutes.
2. After the resting period, it’s time to rinse the zucchini. This is important to remove the salt. I find that the best method is to use a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse it under cold water, and then, using a clean dish towel or paper towels, squeeze out as much liquid as you can. This step is key for achieving crispy fritters!
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly drained zucchini, eggs, onion, garlic, and the chopped herbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Next, add in the flour, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, baking powder, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is well mixed. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned onto the frying pan.
5. Now, heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. I like to test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of the batter in; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
6. Using about 3 heaping tablespoons of the batter per fritter, drop the mixture carefully into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and make them soggy.
7. Cook the fritters for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they’re nicely browned. You’ll want to flip them gently to avoid breaking them apart.
8. Once golden and crispy, transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
9. Serve your Zucchini Fritters immediately while they’re still hot. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. And don’t forget a sprig of parsley on top for that extra touch!
10. Enjoy them as part of a light lunch or dinner, or even as a delicious snack. They’re sure to impress your friends and family!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

One of the best things about Zucchini Fritters is their versatility. Here are some ideas to spice up your fritters!

• Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these fritters! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: These fritters are great with a variety of dips, like tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
• Flavor Variations: Try incorporating different herbs or spices based on your preference. Dill or chili flakes can bring a new dimension!
• Serving Ideas: Serve these fritters with a side salad for a light lunch or as an appetizer for gatherings.

What Complements This Zucchini Fritters

There are plenty of delicious options to serve alongside your Zucchini Fritters. These pair well with many dishes and are perfect for various occasions.

• Side Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the fritters beautifully.
• Dip Options: Consider offering a selection of dips like sour cream, salsa, or a tangy yogurt sauce.
• Occasions: These fritters are fantastic for summer picnics, casual dinners, or impressive appetizers at a party.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, pair them with fresh tomatoes or corn salad. In the fall, serve with roasted butternut squash.
• Storage Tips: For the best texture, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. For longer-term storage, freeze them.
• Light Meal: They can be served alongside a simple grain salad or pasta salad for a more substantial meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

This recipe for Zucchini Fritters is special because it combines fresh ingredients and wholesome flavors into a delightful dish that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to try making them; they’re not just tasty, but also a fun way to involve the whole family in the kitchen. With endless possibilities for customization, these fritters can easily become a staple in your home. So roll up your sleeves, grab some zucchini, and start cooking! You won’t regret it.

Zucchini Fritters

The ultimate comfort food, Zucchini Fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for a quick snack or a light meal, these fritters are a delightful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables. Make them tonight for a satisfying and delicious dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Appetizers, Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 12 fritters

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds zucchini washed and grated and tossed in a bowl with 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian herbs basil, rosemary, oregano, etc.
• 1/3 cup unbleached all-purpose flour GF: use gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Oil for frying Oil

Instructions

 

• Start by grating the zucchini. I usually prefer to use a box grater for this task. Once grated, place the zucchini in a bowl and sprinkle it with 1 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial, as it draws out excess moisture, which can make or break the crispy texture of your fritters. Allow it to rest for about 30 minutes.
• After the resting period, it’s time to rinse the zucchini. This is important to remove the salt. I find that the best method is to use a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse it under cold water, and then, using a clean dish towel or paper towels, squeeze out as much liquid as you can. This step is key for achieving crispy fritters!
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly drained zucchini, eggs, onion, garlic, and the chopped herbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Next, add in the flour, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, baking powder, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is well mixed. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned onto the frying pan.
• Now, heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. I like to test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of the batter in; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
• Using about 3 heaping tablespoons of the batter per fritter, drop the mixture carefully into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and make them soggy.
• Cook the fritters for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they’re nicely browned. You’ll want to flip them gently to avoid breaking them apart.
• Once golden and crispy, transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
• Serve your Zucchini Fritters immediately while they’re still hot. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. And don’t forget a sprig of parsley on top for that extra touch!
• Enjoy them as part of a light lunch or dinner, or even as a delicious snack. They’re sure to impress your friends and family!

Notes

• Tip 1: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: Yes, you can freeze these fritters! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
• Tip 3: These fritters are great with a variety of dips, like tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
• Tip 4: Try incorporating different herbs or spices based on your preference. Dill or chili flakes can bring a new dimension!
• Tip 5: Serve these fritters with a side salad for a light lunch or as an appetizer for gatherings.

Keyword Crispy Zucchini Recipe, Easy Vegetarian Fritters, healthy snack ideas, Zucchini Fritters

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Meet Bella Banks

I’m the one who makes sure we’re having fun while we work. I love the communal aspect of cooking seven friends in a kitchen can be chaotic, but it’s the best kind of chaos! I cook everything alongside the girls, and I’m often the one setting the table and making sure the “vibe” is right for our photos. I believe that any recipe, no matter how simple or complex, is a celebration.