I recently learned this amazing zucchini recipe from a friend in Spain, and it’s become one of my absolute favorites. The combination of zucchini, rice, and a few simple ingredients creates a dish that’s not only tasty but also satisfying. The best part? The crispy, golden exterior paired with the soft, flavorful interior makes for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any meal. Plus, the preparation is simple, and the result is truly delicious!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini are the star of this dish, offering a mild flavor and tender texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
180 grams (6.3 oz) of rice: Rice adds a hearty element to the dish, absorbing flavors and adding substance to each bite.

300 ml (10 fl oz) water: Used for cooking the rice, ensuring it’s fluffy and perfectly cooked.
1 onion, finely chopped: Onions provide a sweet and savory base, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
1 egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the ingredients together during cooking.

3 tablespoons flour: The flour gives structure to the mixture, making it easier to form and fry the zucchini pieces.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish, along with a hint of herbal flavor.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: These essential seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the zucchini and other ingredients.

Sunflower oil, for frying: Sunflower oil is ideal for frying, giving the zucchini a crispy, golden-brown finish.

Instructions:

Cook the Rice:
- Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring the 300 ml (10 fl oz) of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed, about 15-18 minutes. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside to cool.

Prepare the Zucchini:
- While the rice is cooking, wash the zucchini thoroughly. Trim the ends and grate the zucchini using a coarse grater. Place the grated zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze the zucchini to remove any remaining liquid.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, and chopped parsley. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Crack the egg into the mixture and stir until well combined. Add the flour, salt, and black pepper to taste, and mix until the mixture holds together when pressed.
Form the Zucchini Patties:
- Using your hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small patties or balls. Make sure they are compact and hold their shape.
Fry the Zucchini Patties:
- Heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the zucchini patties into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the patties on each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to ensure even cooking.
Drain and Serve:
- Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the zucchini patties hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Addition: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, to the zucchini mixture before forming the patties.
Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or some finely chopped fresh chili to the mixture.
Serve with Dips: These zucchini patties pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as tzatziki, garlic aioli, or a simple yogurt sauce.

Conclusion:

This Spanish-inspired zucchini recipe is a delightful way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The combination of zucchini, rice, and simple seasonings results in a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, these zucchini patties are sure to be a hit. The crispiness from frying combined with the soft, flavorful interior makes each bite a treat. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my household—and it just might become a staple in yours too!