Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe

Introduction

These crispy and easy zucchini fritters make a delicious, light snack or side dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have golden, flavorful fritters ready in no time. Perfect for enjoying fresh zucchini in a crispy, savory form.

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 zucchinis thoroughly, trim the ends, then grate using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander set over a bowl.
2. Step 2: Sprinkle salt over the zucchini and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Step 3: After resting, squeeze the zucchini firmly using your hands, a clean kitchen towel, or a nut milk bag to remove excess moisture.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, flour, Parmesan (if using), garlic, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the squeezed zucchini and chopped parsley, and stir until the batter is well combined and thick enough to hold together.
6. Step 6: Scoop about two tablespoons of batter at a time and shape into small patties of even thickness. Place them on a plate.
7. Step 7: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add fritters to the skillet, spacing evenly.
8. Step 8: Cook fritters for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before mixing the batter.
• Try adding chopped green onions or a pinch of cumin for additional flavor.
• Use almond or chickpea flour as gluten-free alternatives for a different texture.
• If you prefer a milder taste, omit paprika or chili powder.

Storage

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness. 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 and shape the patties ahead, then refrigerate for a few hours before frying. Cook them fresh for the best texture.

How do I prevent the fritters from being soggy?

The key is removing excess moisture from the zucchini by salting and squeezing it thoroughly before mixing. Cooking in hot oil also helps achieve a crispy exterior.

Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 138 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 fritters (serves 3-4) 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters recipe is a delicious and simple way to transform fresh zucchinis into golden, crispy patties. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these fritters are perfect as a snack, side dish, or light meal. The fritters use grated zucchini combined with gluten-free flour, eggs, and flavorful seasonings, pan-fried until perfectly crisp on the outside while tender inside. Optional Parmesan cheese and herbs add extra depth of flavor, making this recipe versatile and crowd-pleasing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Zucchini Mixture

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

Batter

• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup gluten-free flour (for a gluten-free 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 Frying

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly, then cut off the ends. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander set over a bowl.
2. Draw out moisture: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the grated zucchini and toss gently to coat. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which is key for crispiness.
3. Squeeze out excess water: After resting, squeeze the zucchini firmly with your hands or wrap in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much liquid as possible. Using a nut milk bag is another method to ensure the fritters won’t be soggy.
4. Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, gluten-free flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika until smooth.
5. Combine zucchini and batter: Add the squeezed zucchini and chopped parsley or dill to the batter. Stir well to combine. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.
6. Form patties: Scoop about two tablespoons of the batter at a time and shape it into small, evenly thick patties using your hands or a spoon. Place the patties on a plate while you heat the oil.
7. Heat the oil: Warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
8. Cook the fritters: Place the patties carefully in the hot skillet, leaving space between each. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

Notes

• Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure crispy fritters.
• You can substitute gluten-free flour with all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern.
• Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory flavor to the fritters.
• Add paprika or chili powder for a subtle spicy twist.
• These fritters are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a bright, fresh taste.
• Adjust the seasoning according to taste and dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: zucchini fritters, gluten-free zucchini recipe, crispy zucchini pancakes, easy vegetable fritters, healthy snack, vegetarian appetizer