Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe

Introduction

These crispy and easy zucchini fritters are a perfect way to enjoy fresh summer vegetables. Lightly seasoned and pan-fried to golden perfection, they’re great as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make these delicious fritters at home.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup gluten-free flour (for a GF option)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly, cut off the ends, and grate using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander set over a bowl.
2. Step 2: Sprinkle the salt over the zucchini and toss gently to coat. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Step 3: After resting, squeeze the zucchini firmly by hand, a clean kitchen towel, or a nut milk bag to remove excess liquid. This ensures crispy fritters.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, gluten-free flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the squeezed zucchini and chopped parsley to the bowl. Stir until the mixture forms a thick batter that holds together when scooped.
6. Step 6: Scoop about two tablespoons of batter and shape into small, even patties. Place them on a plate while heating the oil.
7. Step 7: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the fritters in the skillet with space between them.
8. Step 8: Fry each side for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, serve the fritters immediately after frying or keep them warm in a low oven.
• Try substituting fresh dill for parsley to change the flavor profile.
• For a dairy-free version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
• If you prefer spicier fritters, increase the paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness, or warm briefly in a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make zucchini fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. Cook them just before serving for best texture.

What can I serve with zucchini fritters?

Zucchini fritters pair well with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a tangy dipping sauce like tzatziki or marinara.

Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 79 reviews

These Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters are a quick and flavorful snack or side dish, perfect for using fresh zucchinis. They are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of spice. Made with gluten-free flour for an inclusive twist, these fritters are pan-fried in olive oil to achieve the perfect crispy texture.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 10–12 fritters 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Zucchini Preparation

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
• 1 teaspoon salt

Batter

• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup gluten-free flour (for a GF option)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill

For Cooking

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly, trim the ends, then grate them using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini into a colander set over a bowl to catch liquid.
2. Salt and drain: Sprinkle salt evenly over the grated zucchini and toss gently to coat. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which is key for achieving crispiness.
3. Remove excess moisture: After resting, use your hands, a clean kitchen towel, or a nut milk bag to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini to prevent soggy fritters.
4. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, gluten-free flour, grated Parmesan (if using), minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
5. Combine zucchini and herbs: Stir in the drained zucchini and chopped parsley or dill until the batter is thick and well combined to hold its shape when cooked.
6. Form patties: Scoop about two tablespoons of the batter per fritter and shape into small, evenly thick patties. Arrange them on a plate while heating the oil.
7. Heat oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
8. Cook the fritters: Place the fritters in the skillet with space between each. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels if desired.

Notes

• Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure crispy fritters.
• If you want to make this dish vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg or other egg replacer and omit Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
• The paprika or chili powder is optional but adds a nice subtle heat.
• These fritters are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to regain crispiness.
• You can serve with a dollop of sour cream, yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Keywords: zucchini fritters, gluten-free fritters, crispy zucchini fritters, easy zucchini recipe, fry fritters, vegetarian fritters