Description
Crispy Zucchini Fritters are golden, crunchy on the outside, and tender on the inside – the perfect way to enjoy fresh zucchini. Lightly seasoned with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, these fritters are pan-fried until beautifully crisp and make a delicious appetizer, snack, or side dish. Serve them with sour cream, Greek yogurt dip, or tzatziki for a refreshing touch.
Ingredients For Crispy Zucchini Fritters
2 medium zucchinis (about 3 cups grated)
1 tsp salt (to draw out moisture)
2 large eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 green onions, finely chopped
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional)
3 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro)
Oil for pan-frying (olive oil or vegetable oil)
Instructions
Prepare the zucchini: Grate zucchinis using a box grater. Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt, let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Mix the batter: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, then add flour, Parmesan, garlic, green onions, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Stir in the squeezed zucchini until combined.
Heat the pan: Add a thin layer of oil to a skillet over medium heat.
Cook fritters: Drop 2–3 tbsp of batter per fritter into the pan. Flatten slightly with a spatula. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Drain and serve: Place fritters on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dip.
Servings
Makes about 10–12 fritters (serves 4 as a side dish or appetizer).
Nutritional Info (per fritter, approx.)
Calories: 85
Protein: 4g
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 190mg
Notes
Be sure to squeeze out excess zucchini water – this step is crucial for crispiness.
For gluten-free fritters, substitute flour with almond flour or chickpea flour.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 2 days; reheat in an air fryer or oven for best texture.
Tips
Add shredded carrots or corn for variety.
For extra crispiness, coat fritters lightly in breadcrumbs before frying.
Serve with tzatziki, sour cream, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – fry in batches for even browning.
Benefits
Rich in fiber and antioxidants from zucchini.
Contains protein and calcium from eggs and Parmesan.
A healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks.
Quick and easy way to include more vegetables in meals.
Q/A
Q: Can I bake zucchini fritters instead of frying?
A: Yes! Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: How do I keep fritters from falling apart?
A: Make sure the zucchini is well-drained, and don’t skip the egg and flour – they bind everything together.
Q: Can I freeze zucchini fritters?
A: Yes! Freeze cooked fritters in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag. Reheat in an oven or air fryer until crispy.
Q: What dips go best with zucchini fritters?
A: Greek yogurt dip, ranch, marinara, tzatziki, or even hummus pair wonderfully.
