These easy zucchini fritters are crunchy on the outside and soft inside, bursting with flavor! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a few spices, they make a tasty snack or side dish.
Sometimes, I can’t resist snacking on them right off the skillet! They are perfect with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh green zucchini is key for these fritters. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash can work too! They both provide moisture and flavor, just remember to salt and drain them well.
Flour: All-purpose flour is typical, but feel free to swap in whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, so adjust the quantity as needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding Parmesan gives a lovely savory touch. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast or leave it out entirely. You won’t lose too much flavor, but the fritters may be a bit less crispy.
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild oniony flavor. If you don’t have them, regular onions can be used, just chop them finely and use a little less so it’s not overpowering.
Olive Oil: This is for frying and adds a rich flavor. You can substitute with canola or avocado oil if you prefer a neutral taste. Just make sure to use a good amount to get that crispy texture!
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Zucchini Fritters?
The key to great zucchini fritters is managing the moisture. Zucchini has a high water content, so you need to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. The steps are simple:
- After grating the zucchini, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out moisture.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze the zucchini until it feels dry. This step ensures your fritters won’t be soggy!
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly. This will help bind everything together, giving you that nice fritter shape.
Following these steps will give you that lovely crispy outside and soft, flavorful inside that everyone loves!
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Olive oil for frying
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream or yogurt
- Fresh chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. In just half an hour, you’ll have crispy, delicious zucchini fritters ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by placing the grated zucchini in a large bowl and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the excess moisture. This step is super important for avoiding soggy fritters!
2. Remove Excess Moisture:
After letting the zucchini sit, grab a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels. Squeeze the zucchini tightly to remove as much moisture as you can. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will turn out!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In the same bowl with the zucchini, add in the flour, Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), egg, chopped green onions, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You should have a nice, thick mixture.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Next, heat up a skillet over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet so the fritters don’t stick.
5. Cook the Fritters:
Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Use a spatula to flatten them slightly. Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. They should smell amazing!
6. Drain Excess Oil:
When the fritters are done, carefully transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help soak up any extra oil, keeping them light and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side, and sprinkle fresh chives on top for a nice touch. Dig in and enjoy your delicious zucchini fritters!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute it with feta cheese for a tangy flavor or cheddar for a milder taste. Just ensure that the cheese you choose will melt well for that delightful texture!
What Can I Do if My Mixture is Too Wet?
If your zucchini mixture is too wet after squeezing out the moisture, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it holds together better. Alternatively, you could mix in some breadcrumbs for added texture and to absorb extra liquid.
Can I Bake These Fritters Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake the fritters, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle them with olive oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or warm them up in the oven for a crisper texture.
