These easy zucchini fritters are crispy, tasty, and packed with fresh zucchini. They make a perfect snack or side dish that everyone will love!
I love how quick they are to whip up—grate, mix, and fry! Plus, they disappear fast at my house. Who can resist a golden, crunchy fritter? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis. They should feel heavy for their size. If zucchinis are out of season, you could use yellow squash or grated carrots for a different taste.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard for binding, but you can swap it out for gluten-free flour if needed. Almond or coconut flour will also work, but be cautious with amounts since they absorb moisture differently.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for its rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy taste. Another substitute could be pecorino romano for a sharper vibe.
Chives: Chives add a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, green onions or even fresh basil could be a fun twist. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch but use less since they’re more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for flavor but can also use canola or avocado oil for frying. These oils have a high smoke point, perfect for getting that crispiness.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Fritters Are Crispy?
The secret to crispy fritters lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. After grating, salt the zucchini and let it sit. This process draws out water.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze as much water as you can after 10 minutes.
- Don’t skip this step! The more moisture you remove, the crunchier your fritters will be.
- Also, make sure the oil is hot before adding the fritters to avoid sogginess.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus more for garnish)
- Olive oil for frying
For Serving (Optional):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these zucchini fritters will take about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes to make a crispy, delicious dish that’s perfect for snacks or even as a side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a large bowl. Once they’re grated, sprinkle the salt over the top and mix everything well. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out any extra moisture, keeping your fritters nice and crispy!
2. Drain the Zucchini:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and place the grated zucchini inside. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can—this step is really important for achieving that crispy texture!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In the same bowl with the drained zucchini, add the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, garlic powder, egg, and chopped chives. Stir everything together until well combined; you’ll have a green, gooey mixture ready for cooking!
4. Heat the Oil:
Now, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add enough olive oil to just coat the bottom of the pan—this helps fry the fritters perfectly! Wait until the oil is hot, but not smoking.
5. Fry the Fritters:
Once the oil is hot, take spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture and drop them into the skillet. Flatten each one slightly with the back of your spoon. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. It’s okay if they get a little messy—this just adds to the charm!
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping them nice and light.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the fritters warm, garnished with additional chives on top. You can add a lovely dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for an extra tasty treat. Enjoy your delicious and easy zucchini fritters!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as feta, cheddar, or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly. If using a softer cheese like mozzarella, you might need to adjust the flour a bit to maintain the fritters’ firmness.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these fritters gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Rice flour or almond flour are also great alternatives, but check the moisture level of your zucchini when using them, as they may require slight adjustments for consistency.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Fritters?
Yes, you can add other finely grated vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or corn for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the amount of flour slightly if you add a significant volume of additional veggies to maintain the fritter’s structure!
