These crispy zucchini fritters are the perfect snack for any time of day! Made with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a few simple herbs, they are crunchy on the outside and soft inside.
Plus, they’re super easy to whip up! Just grate the zucchini, mix everything, and pan-fry until golden. I love serving them with a nice dip. Who can resist a tasty snack that’s also good for you? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star here! If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works as a substitute. It has a similar texture and flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great, but if you prefer gluten-free, almond or chickpea flour can also do the trick. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using grated Parmesan for its rich flavor. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds a nice touch, but feel free to swap it for green onions, basil, or dill based on what you have on hand. Fresh herbs bring great flavor.
How Do You Get Crispy Fritters Without the Moisture?
Getting crispy zucchini fritters relies heavily on removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to do it:
- Grate the zucchini and sprinkle it with salt, letting it sit in a colander for 10-15 minutes. This helps pull out moisture.
- After soaking, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. The drier the mixture, the crispier your fritters will be!
By following this step, you’ll avoid soggy fritters and achieve that perfect golden-brown crunch. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 1 pound), grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy snack that doesn’t require much effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis. Once grated, place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This will help remove excess moisture, ensuring your fritters are crispy!
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After the waiting period, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. The drier they are, the better your fritters will turn out!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the dried zucchini with the flour, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, black pepper, and baking powder. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when formed into patties.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of olive or vegetable oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, but not so much that the fritters will be swimming in it.
5. Form and Fry the Patties:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture, form small patties and carefully place them in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan—this will make it harder to get them crispy.
6. Cooking Time:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Drain the Fritters:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them nice and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crispy zucchini fritters warm, with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side if you like. Enjoy this easy, tasty snack!
Get ready for a crispy treat that’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before forming the patties and frying them!
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Both will still yield delicious results!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a skillet to help them regain their crispiness!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Fritters?
These fritters go wonderfully with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a tangy tzatziki sauce. You could also try them with a spicy salsa or marinara for a fun twist!
