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:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- 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.
- In a large bowl, beat 3 of the eggs.
- Add the grated zucchini, Parmesan, flour, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties and place them on the prepared baking tray.
- Drizzle olive oil over the patties to help them crisp up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- Finely chop the red onion and pepper.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
- 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:
- 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!