These Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Made with shredded zucchini, a touch of onion, and crispy breadcrumbs, they’re golden-brown and crunchy.
I love how these fritters are perfect as a snack or side dish. Plus, they’re so easy to make that I can whip them up anytime I have extra zucchini! Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are best for these fritters. If you have yellow squash, it works too! Both lend a nice texture. For a low-carb version, try cauliflower instead.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the fritters. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or chickpea flour can be great substitutes that still hold everything together nicely.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds flavor and richness. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast brings a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Egg: This is used to bind the mixture. If you’re vegan, you can use flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins) or mashed banana as a substitute, but keep in mind it will change the flavor.
How Can I Make My Zucchini Fritters Extra Crispy?
For crispy fritters, the key lies in getting rid of excess moisture from the zucchinis. Follow these tips to achieve that perfect crunch:
- After shredding the zucchini, toss it with salt and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out the moisture.
- Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as possible. The dryer the zucchini, the crispier the fritters!
- Make sure your oil is hot before adding the fritters to the pan. This helps to create that golden outer crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil’s temperature and make the fritters soggy. Fry them in batches!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have tasty, crispy zucchini fritters that everyone will love!
Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups shredded)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or yellow onion
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect to have these delicious fritters ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Shred the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and use a box grater or food processor to shred them. Next, place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out any excess moisture, ensuring crispy fritters!
2. Remove Excess Water:
Once the zucchinis have rested, take the towel and squeeze the shredded zucchini tightly to remove as much water as possible. This is a crucial step to achieving that crispy texture!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried zucchini, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onions, black pepper, and baking powder (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until you have a well-combined batter. It should feel cohesive and ready to form into fritters.
4. Heat the Oil:
Grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, allowing it to heat up. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle when you add the fritters.
5. Form the Fritters:
Use a scoop or tablespoon to grab about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture for each fritter. Flatten each scoop gently to form small patties. Now, carefully place the fritters into the hot oil—without crowding the pan!
6. Fry Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. If necessary, cook them in batches to ensure they fry evenly.
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm fritters with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy your tasty, crispy zucchini fritters as a delightful appetizer or side dish!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is best for this recipe, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using to achieve that crispy texture.
What Can I Substitute for Egg in This Recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, consider using 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. This will act as a binding agent, similar to an egg!
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Can I Bake These Fritters Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush or spray with a little oil and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will result in a slightly different texture but still delicious!
