These Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters are a fun way to enjoy veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, a few simple spices, and a crispy outer layer, they are perfect as a snack or a side dish.
I love making these when I have extra zucchini. They cook up quickly, and the crunch is so satisfying! Plus, they taste great dipped in yogurt or your favorite sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini provides the base for these fritters. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too! Just make sure to remove excess moisture as you would with zucchini.
Flour: All-purpose flour holds the fritters together. You can switch it up with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier or gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Parmesan cheese: This adds a wonderful cheesy flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Egg: The egg helps bind everything. For a vegan version, mashed flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water can replace the egg. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Fritters?
The key to crispy zucchini fritters lies in removing their moisture. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Grate the zucchini and salt it. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out water.
- Squeeze the zucchini well! Use a kitchen towel or fine mesh sieve to remove as much water as possible.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—give each fritter room to cook evenly.
- Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.
Enjoy making these delicious fritters and feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs! They’re tasty on their own or paired with dips.
Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups shredded)
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have crispy, delicious zucchini fritters ready in about 30-35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
First, grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. After grating, place the shredded zucchini in a fine mesh sieve or a kitchen towel. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture.
2. Squeeze Out the Water:
After the zucchinis have rested, it’s important to squeeze them thoroughly to remove as much water as possible. Using your hands or a kitchen towel, squeeze out the liquid—this step is key to achieving crispy fritters!
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with flour, Parmesan cheese, the egg, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix everything until well combined. The mixture should hold together when you scoop it.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan for frying, but not so much that the fritters are submerged.
5. Cook the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of the zucchini batter into the hot pan. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon, making them about 3 inches in diameter. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the pan and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil. Serve them warm, with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for garnish.
These fritters are not only easy to make but also full of flavor, with a satisfying crunch that makes them irresistible. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or delicious side dish!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While green zucchini is the most common, you can also use yellow squash. Just make sure to remove excess moisture the same way you would with zucchini.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain their crunch.
Can I Freeze Zucchini Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen in the oven until crispy.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Fritters?
These fritters are delicious with a variety of dips! Try serving them with sour cream, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or even a spicy aioli for added flavor. Fresh herbs mixed into the yogurt make a lovely addition too!
