These Yellow Lentil and Zucchini Fritters are a delightful and nutritious option for a snack or a meal. Packed with protein-rich yellow lentils, fresh zucchini, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and flavorful olives, these fritters are seasoned to perfection and fried until golden and crispy.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 200 g yellow lentils
- 1 medium zucchini
- Salt (for seasoning and draining zucchini)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Oil for frying
- 6-8 sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 40 g olives, finely chopped
- 85 g almond flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chili flakes, to taste
Directions:
- Cook the Lentils:
- Rinse 200 g of yellow lentils under cold water. Place them in a pot with enough water to cover and cook until soft, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate 1 medium zucchini and add a generous pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out the excess water from the zucchini.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 1 minced clove of garlic and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked yellow lentils, drained zucchini, sautéed onion and garlic, 6-8 finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and 40 g finely chopped olives. Mix well.
- Add the Almond Flour and Seasoning:
- Add 85 g of almond flour to the mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and chili flakes to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the Fritters:
- Take small portions of the mixture and form them into oval shapes, about the size of a large walnut.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the fritters in batches until they are golden and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the fritters warm, as a snack or a side dish. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Greek yogurt or a tahini dipping sauce.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and nutritious meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the fritters from absorbing too much oil.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Yellow Lentils: High in protein and fiber, supporting muscle repair and digestion.
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
- Almond Flour: Provides healthy fats and protein.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free (ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free).
- Vegetarian.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan or oven to regain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These fritters are a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
- They are easy to make and packed with nutrients.
- Ideal for a healthy snack or a light meal.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the delicious and nutritious Yellow Lentil and Zucchini Fritters with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives. These fritters are perfect for any time of the day and are sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!