These healthy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese, they are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
They’re super easy to whip up, and you can dip them in your favorite sauce! I love serving them with a dollop of yogurt. Trust me, they vanish quickly from the plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are best for these fritters. If you’re short on zucchinis, you can substitute with yellow squash. The same technique applies, and the flavor is quite similar!
Flour: Whole wheat flour adds a bit of nutrition, but you can use gluten-free flour if needed. Oat flour or almond flour are both great alternatives that can also work well in this recipe.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a nice flavor boost. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works wonderfully and adds a cheesy taste without the dairy!
Egg: Eggs help bind the mixture together. For a vegan substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How Do I Get Crispy Zucchini Fritters?
To achieve that lovely crispness, it’s important to drain the zucchini thoroughly. No one wants soggy fritters! Here’s how to ensure yours come out crispy:
- After grating the zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can. The drier the zucchini, the better!
- Fry the fritters in batches, giving them enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Adjust the heat to medium; too high and they burn, too low and they won’t crisp up. Just keep an eye on them as they cook.
Healthy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 15-20 minutes to cook the fritters. Total time is about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate the Zucchini:
Using a box grater or a food processor, grate the zucchinis. After grating, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can; this ensures that your fritters will be crispy and not soggy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Put the drained zucchini in a mixing bowl. Add the salt, whole wheat flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if using), and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. It should form a thick batter.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive or avocado oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the fritters, as this helps them to fry nicely.
4. Form and Fry the Fritters:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture, shape it into a small patty. Carefully place it in the hot skillet. Repeat this process for the remaining mixture, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow even cooking.
5. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to catch the perfect golden color!
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy for serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm with a side of Greek yogurt, your favorite dipping sauce, or even a salad. They make a great appetizer, snack, or meal!
Enjoy your healthy and easy zucchini fritters! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like carrots, yellow squash, or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that each vegetable may change the flavor slightly, so feel free to experiment!
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until they’re warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Fritters?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the fritters on the sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
You can easily make gluten-free zucchini fritters by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free if necessary!
