Vegetable Patties with Cheese

These crispy and flavorful vegetable patties are a delightful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables, combined with cheese and breadcrumbs for the perfect texture. Easy to make, they are great for lunch, dinner, or as a snack.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 courgette (zucchini), grated
  • 2 medium potatoes, grated
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 4-6 tablespoons breadcrumbs (adjust as needed)
  • Cheese to taste (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
  • Oil for frying
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Prepare the Zucchini:
    • Grate the courgette and season it with salt.
    • Leave it to drain for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
    • Squeeze out any remaining liquid.
  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Grate the potatoes and carrots.
    • Finely chop the onion and parsley.
  • Remove Excess Moisture:
    • Squeeze the grated potatoes well to remove excess water.
    • Ensure the zucchini is also well-squeezed to avoid soggy patties.
  • Mix Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, potatoes, grated carrots, chopped onion, and parsley.
    • Add cheese to taste, then crack in the eggs and mix thoroughly.
    • Season with salt and pepper.
    • Add 4-6 tablespoons of breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. Adjust the amount if the mixture is too wet or too dry.
  • Form and Cook the Patties:
    • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Form the mixture into small patties.
    • Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Serve:
    • Serve the patties hot with your favorite accompaniments.

5 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy topping.
  • Pair with a crisp green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
  • Enjoy with a tangy dipping sauce, such as marinara or garlic aioli.
  • Place in a burger bun with lettuce and tomato for a hearty veggie burger.
  • Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple soup for a wholesome dinner.

Cooking Tips

  • Squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated vegetables to prevent the patties from being soggy.
  • If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add an extra egg.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
  • Fry the patties over medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
  • For a healthier option, bake the patties at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rich in Vegetables: Packed with zucchini, carrots, and potatoes, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
  • Protein-Packed: Eggs and cheese add high-quality protein.
  • Customizable: Adjust ingredients to include more veggies or whole-grain breadcrumbs for added nutrition.
  • Low in Fat: Frying in a minimal amount of oil keeps these patties light.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat.
  • Customizable: Easily made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Kid-Friendly: A great way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters.

Nutritional Facts (Per Patty, Approximate)

  • Calories: ~120
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sodium: ~200 mg

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked patties in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients.
  • Crispy, cheesy, and packed with fresh vegetables.
  • Perfect for meal prep and versatile for different meals.
  • A satisfying and wholesome dish that everyone will love.

Conclusion

Vegetable Patties with Cheese are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables in a crispy, cheesy package. Whether served as a snack, side, or main dish, these patties are a versatile addition to your table. With their ease of preparation and adaptability, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
    Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  2. What type of cheese works best?
    Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan are great choices, but any melting cheese will work.
  3. Can I make these patties vegan?
    Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan cheese.
  4. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
    Crushed crackers, oat flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs are good alternatives.
  5. Can I add other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Try adding spinach, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
  6. How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
    Ensure the vegetables are well-squeezed and add enough breadcrumbs for binding.
  7. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the mixture ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  8. Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
    Yes, shape them into patties, freeze on a tray, and transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen.
  9. How do I make them spicier?
    Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
  10. What can I serve with these patties for a full meal?
    Pair with a grain like quinoa or couscous and a fresh salad for a complete meal.