Ingredients

• 1 zucchini (about 200g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 30 g oat flakes (about 1/3 cup)
• 100 g cheese, grated (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 2 large eggs
• Black pepper, to taste
• Spring onions (optional, chopped, for garnish)

Making It Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Wash and Grate: Start by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Using a grater, shred the zucchini into a large bowl.
2. Remove Excess Water: Sprinkle the grated zucchini with 1 teaspoon of salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini. This step is crucial for ensuring your fritters hold together.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

1. Mix in a Bowl: In the bowl with the squeezed zucchini, add the oat flakes, grated cheese, and eggs.
2. Season: Add black pepper to taste and mix all the ingredients until well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold together when formed into patties. If it seems too wet, add a bit more oat flakes to absorb the moisture.

Step 3: Cook the Fritters

1. Heat the Pan: In a non-stick skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan without deep-frying the fritters.
2. Form Patties: Once the oil is hot, take a generous spoonful of the zucchini mixture and form it into a patty. Place it in the skillet and flatten it slightly with a spatula. Repeat this process, leaving space between each fritter in the pan.
3. Cook Until Golden: Cook the fritters for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

1. Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
2. Garnish: If using, sprinkle with chopped spring onions for added flavor and presentation.

Cooking Tips

• Cheese Options: You can use any cheese that melts well. Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese are all excellent choices.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add herbs like parsley, dill, or Italian seasoning to the mixture for extra flavor.
• Make-Ahead: The mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before cooking.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve your fritters warm with sour cream, yogurt, or a spicy dip. They can also be enjoyed cold, making them a great addition to lunch boxes.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or toaster oven to regain their crispness.
• Freezing: These fritters freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.

Nutritional Facts (per fritter, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

FAQs

1. Can I use other vegetables?
   • Absolutely! Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spinach can be added for variation.
2. What can I substitute for eggs?
   • You can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binding agent. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
3. Are these fritters gluten-free?
   • Yes, if you ensure that the oat flakes are certified gluten-free.
4. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
   • Yes, place the formed fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?
   • Squeezing out excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial. If the mixture seems too wet, add more oat flakes or a small amount of flour.

Conclusion

These cheesy zucchini fritters are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they make for an irresistible snack or side dish. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, a light dinner, or as a party appetizer, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the ease of preparation and the ability to customize the ingredients make this recipe a must-try. Enjoy these fritters warm with your favorite dipping sauce, and relish the satisfying flavors in every bite!