Zucchini fritters are a delightful way to enjoy the mild flavor and versatility of zucchini. These easy-to-make fritters are packed with grated zucchini, crispy on the outside, and soft on the inside. They’re perfect as a light lunch, a delicious appetizer, or a satisfying side dish.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Servings: 2-3 people
Ingredients:
- 2 Medium Zucchinis
- Salt to taste
- 1 Large Egg
- 100 ml Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 20 grams Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 60 grams All-Purpose Flour
- Black Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- Olive Oil for frying
Directions:
- Grate the zucchini: Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the zucchinis. Sprinkle them with salt in a large bowl and toss to coat. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water.
- Drain the zucchini: After 10 minutes, the zucchini will release some moisture. Drain the excess water using a colander or by squeezing the grated zucchini with your hands.
- Prepare the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Add the grated parmesan cheese, flour, black pepper, and baking powder to the egg mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a thick batter.
- Incorporate the zucchini: Fold the drained zucchini into the batter until evenly distributed.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough olive oil into a large frying pan to coat the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not sizzling.
- Fry the fritters: Scoop the batter by tablespoons and gently drop them into the hot oil. Flatten the tops slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Cook until golden brown: Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these zucchini fritters on their own as a light lunch or appetizer.
- Pair them with a side salad or yogurt dip for a more complete meal.
- Serve them alongside your favorite main dish like grilled chicken, fish, or pasta.
- Get creative with dips! Marinara sauce, tzatziki sauce, or a simple lemon garlic aioli are all delicious options.
Cooking Tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Cook the fritters in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- For thicker fritters, use slightly less milk in the batter.
- You can experiment with different cheeses besides parmesan. Feta cheese, goat cheese, or mozzarella would all work well.
- For a vegan option, use a flaxseed egg substitute and omit the parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese.
- This recipe incorporates cheese for a boost of protein and calcium.
- You can control the amount of oil used for frying, making it adaptable to your dietary needs.
Dietary Information:
This recipe can be adapted to fit various dietary needs:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. A vegan option is mentioned in the cooking tips.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free milk and omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Storage:
Leftover zucchini fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy and quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- A delicious way to incorporate zucchini into your diet
- Versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways
- Customizable with different cheeses and herbs
- Healthy and satisfying appetizer or side dish
So ditch the deep fryer and whip up a batch of these delightful zucchini fritters! They’re sure to become a new favorite.