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These crispy zucchini fritters are a delightful balance of texture and flavor, combining a golden, crunchy exterior with a tender, moist interior.
What sets this recipe apart is the subtle use of Parmesan cheese, which adds a savory depth and enhances crispiness without overpowering the natural mildness of zucchini.
Rich in fiber and low in carbohydrates, these fritters offer a light yet satisfying option for those seeking nutritious, veggie-forward meals.
The inclusion of eggs provides a good source of protein, while olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats, making this recipe well-rounded nutritionally.
Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these fritters require minimal prep and cook time, making them ideal for busy households or meal prep.
Their simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and versatile serving options make them a reliable, tasty choice for everyday cooking.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Box Grater
Essential for finely shredding zucchini into long strands, this classic tool ensures the right texture and moisture release. Its versatility makes it indispensable for shredding cheese, carrots, and more in everyday cooking.
Non-Stick Skillet
Perfect for achieving the crispy golden crust on each fritter without sticking or excessive oil use. A good-quality non-stick skillet reduces cleanup and enables even cooking for a variety of dishes.
Ice Cream Scoop
Ideal for portioning out consistent, evenly sized fritters to ensure uniform cooking and presentation. Beyond fritters, it’s perfect for scooping cookie dough, muffins, or ice cream with ease.
Oven Rack and Tray
Used to keep the cooked fritters warm and crispy in the oven before serving. This setup also aids in reheating leftovers while preserving texture, proving useful for roasting and baking tasks.
Quick Crispy Zucchini Fritters You’ll Love
Equipment
- 1 Box grater
- 1 Non-stick skillet (8-10 inch)
- 1 Ice cream scoop (1/4 cup size)
- 1 Oven tray with rack
Ingredients
- 500 g 1 lb zucchini (about 2 medium)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions finely sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large garlic clove minced
- ½ cup 75 g all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of black pepper
- 4 tbsp olive oil divided
- For serving: yogurt or sour cream extra chopped green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini – Grate and Salt: Start by thoroughly washing the zucchini under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Using a box grater, grate the zucchini on a diagonal to create long, thin strands. This helps achieve the ideal texture and moisture release. Transfer the grated zucchini into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt evenly over the zucchini. Toss gently to distribute the salt throughout. Let the salted zucchini sit for at least 10 minutes. This resting period allows the salt to draw out excess moisture, which is crucial to prevent soggy fritters.
- Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini: After the zucchini has rested, you’ll notice liquid pooling at the bottom of the bowl. To ensure crispy fritters, it’s important to remove as much moisture as possible. Use your hands to firmly squeeze handfuls of zucchini over the sink or a bowl to catch the liquid.Alternatively, gather the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist to wring out the water. Aim to leave the zucchini damp but not dripping wet, as some moisture is needed for binding.
- Combine Batter Ingredients: With the zucchini now ready, add one large egg into the bowl to act as a binder. Finely slice two green onions and add them in for a fresh, mild onion flavor. Grate about 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese—freshly grated will provide the best flavor and texture, but store-bought works fine. Mince one large garlic clove and add it to the mixture for a subtle savory kick. Gently mix all these ingredients together until they are evenly distributed through the zucchini.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Next, evenly scatter 1/2 cup (75 grams) of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder over the zucchini mixture. Avoid dumping the flour in one spot; instead, sprinkle it around to encourage even mixing. Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for seasoning. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the flour and baking powder into the zucchini mixture carefully. Stir just until the flour disappears and the batter is thick but still soft. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make fritters tough.
- Prepare Cooking Surface and Heat Oil: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat thoroughly for about 2-3 minutes. Pour 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the pan and swirl it to coat the entire cooking surface evenly.Maintaining the right oil temperature is key—too hot and the fritters will burn, too low and they won’t crisp properly. If your stove tends to run hot, reduce the heat slightly to medium.
- Portion and Shape Fritters: Use a 1/4 cup ice cream scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the batter evenly.Drop three to four mounds of batter into the hot pan, spacing them apart to avoid overcrowding. Immediately use a spatula to gently press each mound down to about 1 centimeter (around half an inch) thick. This ensures even cooking and helps develop a golden crust.
- Pan-Fry Until Golden Brown: Cook the fritters undisturbed for approximately 3 minutes. Check underneath by carefully lifting one with a spatula—when it’s a deep golden brown, it’s time to flip. Flip each fritter carefully and cook the other side for an additional 3 minutes. Both sides should be crispy and beautifully browned. If they brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and adjust as needed.
- Keep Fritters Warm While Cooking Remaining Batter: Once cooked, transfer the fritters to an oven tray fitted with a rack. Place the tray in a preheated oven set to 100°C (200°F) to keep the fritters warm and maintain their crispiness. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed. This method keeps the finished fritters warm and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the zucchini fritters immediately for the best texture and flavor. Top each serving with a dollop of creamy yogurt or sour cream to complement the crispy fritters. Sprinkle extra chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish. These fritters make a perfect light meal or appetizer and pair wonderfully with a crisp salad or as a side dish
Notes
- Properly squeezing out zucchini moisture is essential to avoid soggy fritters.
- Use fresh Parmesan for best flavor and extra crispiness; pre-grated cheese works but is less flavorful.
- The batter consistency should be thick but soft—too runny results in fragile fritters, too thick makes them dense.
- Adjust cooking heat carefully to achieve a golden crust without burning.
- Keep cooked fritters warm in a low oven on a rack to maintain crispness.
- These fritters are best served fresh but can be reheated with care to restore texture.
Chef’s Secrets to Crispy Perfection
Achieving perfectly crispy zucchini fritters comes down to managing moisture and heat.
Salting the grated zucchini and allowing it to rest draws out water that would otherwise make your fritters soggy.
Don’t rush the squeezing step—it’s worth the effort for a crisp exterior.
When mixing the batter, fold the flour in gently and avoid overworking to keep the fritters light and tender.
Cooking on medium to medium-high heat ensures a golden crust without burning, but adjust according to your stove’s power.
Using Parmesan cheese not only adds savory depth but also encourages a satisfying crunch.
Lastly, keeping finished fritters warm on a wire rack in a low oven prevents steam from making them limp before serving.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Flavor
Zucchini fritters are versatile and pair beautifully with creamy accompaniments.
A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or sour cream complements the savory flavors while adding a cooling contrast.
Fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or chives sprinkled on top brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
For a more substantial meal, serve the fritters alongside a crisp green salad or a light tomato and cucumber salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
They also work well as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish, making them perfect for casual dinners or entertaining guests.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
These fritters are best enjoyed immediately after cooking to capture their crispy texture.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place the fritters on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 250°C (480°F) for about 5 minutes.
This method helps re-crisp the exterior without drying them out.
Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the fritters soggy.
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked fritters individually on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
Reheat from frozen in a hot oven or pan-fry gently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Fritters
Q1: Can I use gluten-free flour instead?
Yes, gluten-free all-purpose flour can be substituted in equal amounts. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so adjust the batter thickness as needed.
Q2: How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese instead of Parmesan. The texture might be a bit different but still delicious.
Q3: What if my zucchini is too watery?
If your zucchini is extremely juicy, salt it and let it sit longer, then squeeze out excess water thoroughly. You can also add a little more flour to help bind the batter.
Q4: Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is possible but the fritters won’t be as crispy. Bake on a greased or parchment-lined tray at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for more even browning.
Q5: How can I add more flavor?
Feel free to add herbs like dill, basil, or parsley to the batter, or spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for a twist. Adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers can also enhance flavor and texture.
This recipe is inspired by recipetineats and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
