Crispy Zucchini Fritters
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crunch of a perfectly cooked fritter, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with these Crispy Zucchini Fritters. I remember the first time I made them; it was during a bright summer afternoon, and I was looking for a way to use up the abundant zucchini from my garden. With the sun shining and the smell of fresh herbs wafting through the kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. These fritters quickly became a family favorite, a staple at our summer gatherings, served alongside tangy sauces and fresh salads.
Recipe Snapshot
48 mins
30 mins
18 mins
Medium
150 kcal
4 g
Gluten-Free
8 g
Food Processor, Skillet, Frying Pan, Grater, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
The Charm of This Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Flavorful and Fresh
One of the things I love about Crispy Zucchini Fritters is the burst of flavors in every bite. The zucchini, when mixed with fragrant herbs like dill and basil, creates a fresh, vibrant taste that’s simply irresistible. The addition of spices like paprika and cayenne pepper gives it a subtle kick, making it perfect for any palate.
Versatile Serving Options
These fritters can be served in so many ways! Whether you want them as a light lunch, an appetizer, or a side dish with dinner, they fit the bill perfectly. Pair them with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce or a tangy tzatziki for an extra flavor boost. They also make a fantastic addition to any brunch spread.
Easy to Prepare
Don’t let the word ‘fritter’ intimidate you. Making Crispy Zucchini Fritters is surprisingly easy! The steps are straightforward, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. Just a good non-stick skillet and some basic ingredients will have you frying up these delicious bites in no time.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Another reason to love these fritters is how well they store. You can make a big batch, freeze them, and have them ready for a quick lunch or snack later. This makes them ideal for busy days when you want something homemade without the hassle.
Healthy and Guilt-Free
With all that zucchini packed in, these fritters are not only delicious but also a healthier option compared to many fried snacks. They contain wholesome ingredients and can be easily adapted for different diets, allowing you to enjoy comfort food without the guilt.
What Goes Into Crispy Zucchini Fritters
In crafting the perfect Crispy Zucchini Fritters, the selection of fresh ingredients is key. Each ingredient plays a significant role, enhancing both flavor and texture. The star of the show is undoubtedly the fresh zucchini, which brings moisture and a lightness to the fritters. Combined with eggs that bind everything together, and herbs that add a fragrant note, these components create a harmony that’s hard to resist.
- Zucchini: About two pounds of zucchini is the base of these fritters, providing moisture and a fresh taste. It’s best when grated and allowed to sit with salt to draw out excess water.
- Salt: Used to enhance the flavor of the zucchini, this essential ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing out the natural taste of the vegetables.
- Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the fritters, giving them structure and richness.
- Green Onions: A half-cup of chopped green onions adds a mild onion flavor while contributing a crunchy texture.
- Garlic: Three minced garlic cloves bring an aromatic depth to the fritters, elevating their overall taste.
- Dill and Basil: Fresh herbs, such as two tablespoons of chopped dill and basil, add layers of flavor that make these fritters refreshing.
- Lemon Zest: One tablespoon of lemon zest provides a bright, citrusy note that balances the savory flavors.
- Parmesan: A third of a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the fritters a savory, nutty flavor and helps with browning.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Used for sprinkling on top, these breadcrumbs add an extra crunch that makes each bite satisfying.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing, it helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- Optional Ingredients: Feta cheese and various dipping sauces like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or tzatziki can enhance the flavor further.
Recipe Directions for Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Making Crispy Zucchini Fritters is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. The steps are simple, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly these tasty bites come together. Let’s dive into the process!
Prepare the Zucchini: Start by washing the zucchini and trimming off the ends. Using a box grater or a food processor, grate the zucchini on the large holes. Transfer the shredded zucchini into a large bowl, mix in the salt, and let it sit for twenty minutes. This step is crucial as it draws out excess moisture, ensuring your fritters are crispy.
Prep Oven to Keep Fritters Warm (Optional): If you’d like to keep the fritters warm while you cook the rest, preheat your oven to 200°F. Place a baking rack inside a baking pan to hold the cooked fritters.
Dry Zucchini: After twenty minutes, take the zucchini and squeeze out the moisture using a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or paper towels. Twist firmly to remove as much water as possible; the drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will turn out. Transfer the dried zucchini back into the mixing bowl.
Combine: Now, add the eggs to the zucchini and whisk them together until well combined. Next, add all the ingredients up to the cayenne pepper, mixing thoroughly. Then, sprinkle the flour and baking powder evenly over the top and combine until the batter is thick. If it seems too runny, add a little more flour until you achieve the desired consistency.
Scoop: Heat a large, non-stick or seasoned cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Using an ice cream scoop, scoop about a quarter cup of the batter, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top, and pat it in. Carefully drop the scoop, panko side down, into the sizzling oil. Repeat this with two to three more scoops.
Flatten & Panko: After placing the batter in the skillet, gently sprinkle the tops with more panko and use a spatula to flatten them a bit. Ensure they’re flattened enough to cook through properly.
Cook: Cook each fritter for about three minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. If they’re browning too quickly without being cooked inside, reduce the heat. Once done, transfer the fritters to the prepared baking rack in the oven to keep warm while you cook the remaining batter. You may need to add more oil between batches for the best results.
Serve: Finally, season the fritters with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces, such as yogurt, sour cream, tzatziki, or my favorite, garlic yogurt “aioli.” Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Squeeze Out Excess Water: Always ensure to remove excess liquid from the zucchini. This prevents sogginess and helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh herbs instead of dried ones will elevate the taste significantly. It adds brightness and flavor to the fritters.
- Heat Control: Maintain a steady medium heat for frying. Too high can burn the exterior before the inside cooks properly.
- Test a Small Fritter: Before cooking all the batter, test a small fritter to check for seasoning and texture. Adjust as needed.
Recipe Notes about Crispy Zucchini Fritters
When making Crispy Zucchini Fritters, here are some tips to ensure you get the best results every time.
- Storage: These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them in the oven or on a skillet to regain their crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked fritters. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Reheat directly from the freezer.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as grated carrots or corn for additional flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair them with mixed greens or a fresh salad to make a hearty meal. They also work great as an appetizer for gatherings.
- Healthier Option: Bake them instead of frying for a lighter take. Just place them on a baking sheet with a little olive oil and bake until crispy.
What to Serve Alongside Crispy Zucchini Fritters
When it comes to serving Crispy Zucchini Fritters, the options are plentiful! Here are some fantastic ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the fritters beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.
- Yogurt Dips: Serve with a variety of yogurt-based dips, like tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or a zesty remoulade for an exciting flavor combination.
- Brunch Spread: These fritters are perfect for brunch, served alongside poached eggs, avocado toast, or smoked salmon for a filling meal.
- Summer BBQs: They make a great addition to any summer barbecue, pairing well with grilled meats and fresh corn on the cob.
- Picnics: Pack them for a picnic, enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making for a delightful outdoor meal.
- Storage Tips: Utilize a container to keep leftovers fresh. A layer of parchment paper between fritters can help maintain their crispness during storage.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Crispy Zucchini Fritters are a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether for a picnic, brunch, or a casual dinner, these fritters are sure to impress. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! With their simplicity and deliciousness, they may just become your new favorite snack or side dish.
Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini and trim off the ends. Grate them on the large holes of a box grater (or use the grater attachment of a food processor). Transfer the shredded zucchini to a large bowl, mix in the salt, and let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Prep Oven to Keep Fritters Warm (Optional): Preheat the oven to 200°F. Place a baking rack inside a baking pan.
- Dry Zucchini: After 20 minutes, squeeze out the liquid by wrapping the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or paper towels and twisting firmly—really press hard to remove as much water as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crispier the fritters! Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine: Add the eggs to the side of the shredded zucchini and whisk the eggs together. Add all the ingredients through cayenne, and mix well. Sprinkle the flour and baking powder evenly over the top and combine. The batter should be thick. If it’s too runny, add a little flour.
- Scoop: Heat a large, non-stick or seasoned cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Scoop ¼ cup of batter (I use this ice cream scoop), and sprinkle some panko over the top, then pat it in. Drop the scoop, panko side down, into the sizzling oil. Repeat with 2-3 more rounds.
- Flatten & Panko: Then, sprinkle the tops of the rounds with more panko. Gently flatten them with a spatula (make sure to flatten enough so they cook through).
- Cook: Cook for 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly before being cooked inside, reduce the heat. Transfer the fritters to the prepared baking rack and place them in the oven to warm while you cook the remaining fritters. You will likely need to add additional oil between batches. (A thin layer of oil across the bottom ensures the fritters get that irresistible, crispy, golden edges.)
- Serve: Season to taste with additional salt and pepper and serve with sauce such as yogurt, sour cream, tzatziki, or garlic yogurt “aioli.”
Notes
- Tip 1: These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them in the oven or on a skillet to regain their crispiness.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked fritters. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. Reheat directly from the freezer.
- Tip 3: Feel free to add other vegetables such as grated carrots or corn for additional flavor and texture.
- Tip 4: Pair them with mixed greens or a fresh salad to make a hearty meal. They also work great as an appetizer for gatherings.
- Tip 5: Bake them instead of frying for a lighter take. Just place them on a baking sheet with a little olive oil and bake until crispy.
