Baked Zucchini Parmesan Fritters with Tomato Sauce

These Baked Zucchini Parmesan Fritters with Tomato Sauce are a flavorful and healthy dish perfect for any meal. The crispy fritters combined with a rich tomato sauce make for a delightful and nutritious option.

Preparation Overview

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Serves: 4 people

Ingredients

  • For the Fritters:
    • 5 eggs
    • 70 g Parmesan, grated
    • 70 g flour
    • 100 g breadcrumbs
    • 2 zucchini
    • Olive oil
    • Salt, to taste
    • Black pepper, to taste
  • For the Tomato Sauce:
    • 1 red onion
    • 1 pepper (red, yellow, or green)
    • 250 ml chopped tomatoes
    • 3 cloves of garlic
    • Olive oil
    • Salt, to taste
    • Sugar, to taste
    • Black pepper, to taste
    • Paprika, to taste
    • Dried parsley, to taste
    • Dill, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Fritters:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Grate the zucchini and place in a colander. Sprinkle with a little salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze out the remaining liquid.
  3. In a large bowl, beat 3 of the eggs.
  4. Add the grated zucchini, Parmesan, flour, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
  5. Form the mixture into small patties and place them on the prepared baking tray.
  6. Drizzle olive oil over the patties to help them crisp up.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

  1. Finely chop the red onion and pepper.
  2. Mince the garlic cloves.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
  6. Season with salt, sugar, black pepper, paprika, dried parsley, and dill to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve:

  1. Serve the baked zucchini fritters hot, topped with the homemade tomato sauce.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Pasta: Serve over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
  • As an Appetizer: Enjoy as a starter or appetizer with a side of garlic bread.
  • For Brunch: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and healthy brunch option.

Cooking Tips

  • Removing Moisture: Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to keep the fritters from becoming too soggy.
  • Crispy Fritters: For extra crispiness, you can pan-fry the fritters in a little olive oil before baking.
  • Sauce Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar in the tomato sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Zucchini: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
  • Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
  • Tomatoes: High in vitamins C and K, and beneficial plant compounds.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients.
  • Flavorful: The combination of crispy fritters and rich tomato sauce is delicious.
  • Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for any cook.

Conclusion

These Baked Zucchini Parmesan Fritters with Tomato Sauce are a tasty and healthy option that’s perfect for any meal. With their crispy texture and flavorful sauce, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe and enjoy a nutritious and satisfying dish. Bon appétit!