If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious way to enjoy zucchini, this recipe will become your new favorite. These Cheesy Zucchini, Ham, and Mozzarella Fritters combine shredded zucchini with eggs, garlic, ham, and gooey mozzarella to create golden, savory patties that crisp up beautifully in a pan. They are hearty enough to serve as a light lunch or dinner, yet quick enough for a snack or side dish. With the ham providing a salty punch, the zucchini lending freshness, and the mozzarella melting into creamy pockets, this recipe is the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and comfort.
Ingredients
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500 g zucchini
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Salt, to taste
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2 eggs
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Ground black pepper, to taste
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½ tsp dried garlic (or garlic powder)
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1 tbsp all-purpose flour
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60 g ham, diced
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2–3 spring onions, chopped
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100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
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2–3 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Cooking Directions
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Prepare the zucchini – Grate the zucchini on the large holes of a grater and transfer to a bowl. Sprinkle generously with salt and let it stand for 5–10 minutes to release excess water. After resting, squeeze the zucchini thoroughly with your hands or a clean kitchen towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
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Prepare the batter – In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add the squeezed zucchini, pepper, dried garlic, and flour. Mix until well combined.
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Add flavor – Stir in the diced ham, chopped spring onions, and shredded mozzarella. Mix again until the mixture is evenly distributed. It should be thick and slightly sticky.
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Fry the fritters – Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using a spoon, scoop small portions of the mixture into the pan and flatten gently into fritter shapes. Fry for 5–7 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 5–7 minutes on the other side.
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Serve hot – Remove the fritters to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with sour cream, yogurt sauce, or simply enjoy them on their own while they’re crisp and cheesy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 4 servings)
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Calories: 230 kcal
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Protein: 11 g
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Fat: 14 g
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Carbohydrates: 12 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sodium: 450 mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s versatile, quick, and satisfying. The zucchini keeps the fritters moist and light, while the ham adds protein and savory depth. The mozzarella creates pockets of creamy, melty goodness in every bite. They’re kid-friendly, lunchbox-friendly, and make a wonderful way to sneak extra veggies into your meals without sacrificing taste.
Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Zucchini fritters are a beloved recipe in many kitchens, with variations popping up across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. They are often used as a clever way to use up seasonal zucchini when gardens overflow. Adding ham and mozzarella makes this version more filling and hearty, taking inspiration from Italian flavors where ham and cheese are classic companions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place fritters in a skillet over low heat to crisp them back up, or warm them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fritters soggy.
Common Variations to Try
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Vegetarian – Skip the ham and add extra veggies like grated carrot, corn, or mushrooms.
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Cheese lovers – Try cheddar, gouda, or feta instead of mozzarella.
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Spicy twist – Add chili flakes or a touch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
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Herb boost – Fresh dill, basil, or parsley can brighten the flavors even more.
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Mini bites – Fry smaller spoonfuls to make bite-sized fritters perfect for appetizers.
Pairing Recommendations
These zucchini fritters are great on their own, but pair beautifully with dips like sour cream, garlic yogurt, tzatziki, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Serve with a fresh salad for a balanced light meal, or alongside grilled chicken, roasted fish, or soup for something more substantial.
Health Benefits
Zucchini is low in calories yet packed with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber that supports digestion. Eggs provide protein and essential nutrients, while mozzarella adds calcium for strong bones. By including ham in moderation, you also boost the protein content. Overall, this recipe strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition, making it both delicious and wholesome.
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Conclusion
These Cheesy Zucchini, Ham, and Mozzarella Fritters are proof that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for any time of day. Whether you serve them as breakfast, lunch, a snack, or dinner, they’ll be devoured in no time. With their ease, versatility, and comfort factor, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen.