These zucchini fritters offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, with the creamy mozzarella and fresh tomato slices complementing the crispy, savory fritter perfectly. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that proves vegetables can be just as indulgent as any pizza! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 Zucchinis (about 400g total), grated
- Salt
- 1 large Egg
- 1 tablespoon Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons Flour
- Olive Oil, for frying
- 1-2 Tomatoes, sliced
- Mozzarella Cheese, sliced
- Dry Basil, for seasoning
- Sweet Peppers, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a generous amount of salt and let sit for 10-15 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchini.
Mix Zucchini Fritter Batter:
- After the zucchini has rested, squeeze out the excess liquid by pressing the grated zucchini against the sides of the colander or wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel and wringing it out.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, egg, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), black pepper, and flour. Stir until the mixture forms a cohesive batter.
Cook Fritters:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, spoon portions of the zucchini batter into the skillet, flattening them into round fritter shapes with the back of the spoon.
- Cook the fritters for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy.
Add Toppings:
- A few minutes before the second side is finished cooking, top each fritter with a slice of tomato, a few slices of mozzarella, and some sweet pepper slices if using.
- Sprinkle dry basil over the toppings for added flavor.
Finish Cooking:
- Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt and the toppings warm through, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and the fritters are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet.
- Serve hot, either as a main dish with a side salad or as an appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Dish: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light and nutritious meal.
- Appetizer: Enjoy as an appetizer with a dipping sauce like marinara or a yogurt-based dip.
Cooking Tips:
- Excess Moisture: Make sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini to ensure crispy fritters.
- Even Cooking: Flatten the fritters evenly in the skillet to ensure they cook through uniformly.
- Cheese Melting: Covering the skillet helps the cheese melt and creates a nice, gooey topping.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Zucchini and tomatoes are high in vitamins and antioxidants.
- Protein: Eggs and mozzarella cheese add a good source of protein.
- Low-Carb: A great low-carb option for a satisfying meal.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative if necessary.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it perfect for busy days.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy fritters, creamy cheese, and fresh tomatoes is irresistible.
- Healthy: Packed with vegetables and protein, making it a nutritious choice.
Conclusion:
These Cheesy Zucchini Fritters with Tomato and Mozzarella are a delightful and nutritious meal option. Their crispy texture and flavorful toppings make them a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these fritters as a main dish or a tasty appetizer and savor the delicious combination of fresh vegetables and melted cheese!