These easy zucchini fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re made with fresh zucchini, a little cheese, and spices to give them a yummy flavor!
Let’s be real, these fritters are perfect for sneaking in some veggies. I often serve them with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream—it’s a match made in heaven! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis. If you can’t find them, yellow squash works well too. They both have similar textures and flavors.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the fritters structure, but you can switch to whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Gluten-free flour blends are a good choice too!
Parmesan Cheese: This gives a nice salty kick. If you want a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor. If they’re not available, green onions can be a great substitute, or you can even use dried onion flakes.
Olive Oil: Ideal for frying, but you can also use avocado oil which has a higher smoke point. This can help achieve that lovely crispiness.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Fritters Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about moisture control and frying technique. After grating your zucchini and sprinkling it with salt, let it sit. This step draws out excess moisture that can make your fritters soggy.
- After 10 minutes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Ensure your oil is hot before adding the mixture to the pan. A medium heat is key; too low will make them greasy, and too high may burn them.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and that golden exterior.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Olive oil for frying
- Sour cream or yogurt for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. You’ll spend some time grating the zucchini and mixing everything together, but the cooking is quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate and Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a bowl. Once you have them all grated, sprinkle the zucchini with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out some of the excess moisture. This step helps keep the fritters from being too soggy.
2. Drain the Zucchini:
After the zucchini has sat for 10 minutes, it’s time to squeeze out the extra moisture. Take a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels, place the grated zucchini inside, and squeeze tightly to remove as much liquid as you can. This will help make your fritters nice and crispy!
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped chives. Mix everything together well until all the ingredients are nicely incorporated. The mixture should be somewhat thick but not too dry.
4. Heat the Oil:
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the skillet. You want the oil hot enough that it sizzles when you add the fritter mixture!
5. Cook the Fritters:
Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of the spoon to form patties. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
6. Flip and Drain:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the zucchini fritters warm, garnished with additional chives. You can add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side if you like! Enjoy your delicious and healthy fritters!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute it with feta for a tangy flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the fritters.
What If My Zucchini Is Soggy?
If your grated zucchini is still too watery after squeezing, try adding a little more flour to the mixture to help absorb the moisture. If you’re heavily reliant on zucchini, you may want to add a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs as well for better consistency.
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just make sure to cook them fresh before serving for the best texture! Leftover fritters can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, consider reheating them in a skillet rather than the microwave. This will help to revive their crunch!
