Ingredients

To prepare Savory Zucchini Fritters with Cheese and Olives, you will need the following ingredients:

• Zucchini: 1 medium-sized
• Salt: To taste
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Egg: 1 large
• Dried garlic: To taste
• Flour: 4 tablespoons (all-purpose or whole wheat)
• Olive oil: For frying
• Cheese: 60 grams (feta, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice), crumbled or grated
• Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
• Olives: 30 grams, sliced (green or black, depending on preference)
• Parsley: A handful, chopped, for garnish

Steps on How to Make Savory Zucchini Fritters

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Grate the Zucchini: Start by washing and trimming the ends of the zucchini. Using a box grater or a food processor, grate the zucchini finely.
2. Season with Salt: Place the grated zucchini in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and mix well. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture from the zucchini, which helps prevent soggy fritters.
3. Squeeze Out the Excess Liquid: After 10 minutes, take the grated zucchini and transfer it to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible to ensure a firmer fritter texture.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

1. Combine Other Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the squeezed zucchini, finely chopped onion, and the egg. Mix well to combine.
2. Add Seasonings and Flour: Season the mixture with dried garlic, adding salt to taste. Then, add 4 tablespoons of flour to help bind the fritters together. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Add Cheese and Olives: Gently fold in the crumbled cheese and sliced olives, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a non-stick frying pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan to help achieve a crispy exterior.
2. Spread the Mixture: Once the oil is hot, use a spoon or small ice cream scoop to drop portions of the zucchini mixture into the pan. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form patties.
3. Cook the Fritters: Fry the fritters on low heat for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid high heat, as this can cause the outside to burn before the inside is fully cooked.
4. Flip the Fritters: To flip the fritters, use a large plate. Place the plate over the pan, carefully invert the fritters onto the plate, and then slide them back into the pan to cook the other side.

Step 4: Serve

1. Prepare for Serving: Once the fritters are cooked and golden brown on both sides, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
2. Garnish: Serve the fritters warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Fritter)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one fritter (based on making about 8 fritters):

• Calories: 100 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g

These fritters are a great source of vegetables and can provide a balanced amount of protein and healthy fats, especially when paired with a yogurt dip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even grated sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.

2. What type of cheese is best for fritters?

Feta cheese adds a nice tangy flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even vegan cheese works well.

3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While it’s best to fry the fritters fresh, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a stir before cooking.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.

5. Can I freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes! After cooking, allow the fritters to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer in a hot oven or skillet.

Tips for Making the Best Zucchini Fritters

1. Don’t Skip the Salt: Salting the zucchini before cooking is crucial as it removes excess moisture and enhances the flavor.
2. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or chives for additional flavor.
3. Adjust the Thickness: If your batter seems too thick, you can add a little water or more olive oil. Conversely, if it’s too thin, add a bit more flour.
4. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Pair these fritters with a dipping sauce like tzatziki, yogurt, or a spicy ketchup for an added zing.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Zucchini fritters are best served fresh, but they can be kept at room temperature for a couple of hours if needed.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for about three days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked fritters as previously described. They make for a quick meal option when you’re in a pinch.

Conclusion

These Savory Zucchini Fritters with Cheese and Olives are a wonderful addition to any meal, whether as a snack, appetizer, or a main course. They are easy to prepare, nutritious, and full of flavor, making them a fantastic way to enjoy zucchini and incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Perfect for a light lunch or dinner alongside a fresh salad, these fritters also make a great party dish or picnic option. With their crispy texture and savory filling, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these delicious fritters that are as satisfying as they are healthy! Happy cooking