These cheesy zucchini fritters are a crispy, savory snack or side dish that is both satisfying and easy to make. With the perfect balance of grated zucchini, Parmesan, and gooey melted cheese on top, these fritters are sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or alongside your main dish for an extra burst of flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500 g courgettes (zucchini)
- 20-30 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dry garlic
- 2 tbsp flour (adjust as needed)
- Cheese (mozzarella or other hard cheese), for topping
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander.
- Season with salt and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- After resting, squeeze the zucchini well to remove any remaining liquid. This step is crucial to prevent the fritters from becoming soggy.
- Mix the Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the grated and squeezed zucchini, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, black pepper, and dry garlic.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until you achieve a batter-like consistency. The mixture should be thick enough to hold together when scooped but not too dry. Adjust the amount of flour as necessary.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Scoop spoonfuls of the zucchini batter into the pan, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form fritters.
- Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Cheese:
- Once the fritters are golden brown, add a slice of mozzarella or another hard cheese on top of each fritter.
- Continue to fry for another 2 minutes, or until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- Serve:
- Remove the fritters from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Moisture Control: Properly squeezing the excess liquid from the zucchini is essential for achieving the right texture in the fritters.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for varied flavors.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritters to avoid sogginess.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
- Enjoy alongside grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve as an appetizer with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara or tzatziki.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini is low in calories and packed with vitamins A, C, and K, promoting good vision, immune function, and bone health.
- Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor and provides calcium and protein.
- These fritters are high in fiber from zucchini, supporting digestion and heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour.
- Suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet (if using almond flour instead of regular flour).
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 9g
- Carbs: 16g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven for the best texture.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cheesy zucchini fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. The addition of cheese elevates the dish, making it irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a tasty snack or a side dish, these fritters are simple to make and can be enjoyed by everyone. They’re also a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing taste!
Conclusion
These cheesy zucchini fritters are a perfect blend of crunchy, cheesy goodness and vegetable nutrition. They’re easy to make, versatile, and sure to be a hit at any meal. Serve them as a snack or pair them with your main dishes. With endless flavor possibilities, they’ll become a family favorite in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Yes! You can use mozzarella, cheddar, gouda, or any cheese you prefer for topping the fritters. - Can I make these fritters in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying. Cooked fritters can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, but they won’t be as crispy as fried fritters. - Are these fritters suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. - How can I make these fritters spicy?
Add some chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for an extra kick. - Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Fresh zucchini is best, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using. - Can I add other vegetables to the fritters?
Yes, you can add finely grated carrots, onions, or even corn for variety. - How do I prevent the fritters from becoming soggy?
Squeeze out all excess moisture from the zucchini before mixing it into the batter. - How long will these fritters stay crispy after cooking?
The fritters are best enjoyed immediately, but you can keep them crispy by reheating them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. - Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, freeze the cooked fritters in a single layer, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.