If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, these Zucchini and Oatmeal Fritters are a perfect choice. Packed with nutritious vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and potatoes, combined with hearty oatmeal and cheese, these fritters are delicious and filling. Paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, they make an excellent side dish or even a light main course. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply cooking a wholesome dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

• 5 tablespoons oatmeal (quick oats or rolled oats)
• 1 zucchini, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt (for the zucchini)
• 100 grams (3.6 oz) cheese, grated (preferably mozzarella or cheddar)
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 eggs
• Parsley, finely chopped (save some for the sauce)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 potato, grated
• Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 3 teaspoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• Chives, finely chopped
• Parsley, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Grate the zucchini, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This step allows the zucchini to release excess water.
2. Meanwhile, grate the carrot and potato, and set them aside.
3. After the zucchini has rested, squeeze out the excess water using a clean kitchen towel or your hands. This ensures the fritters won’t be soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Fritter Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated and squeezed zucchini, grated carrot, grated potato, and 5 tablespoons of oatmeal.
2. Add 2 eggs, 100 grams of grated cheese, 2 minced garlic cloves, and a handful of finely chopped parsley.
3. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. If you like a bit more flavor, you can also add some paprika or cumin.
4. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb moisture.

Step 3: Fry the Fritters

1. Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Take a small portion of the fritter mixture and shape it into a patty (about the size of your palm).
3. Place the patty in the heated oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Once done, transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt (or sour cream), 3 teaspoons of mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of ketchup.
2. Add finely chopped chives, a bit of parsley, and 1 minced garlic clove (optional for a stronger garlic flavor).
3. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Arrange the crispy zucchini and oatmeal fritters on a plate and serve with the garlic yogurt sauce on the side.
2. Garnish with extra parsley or chives for a fresh, colorful touch.

Cooking Tips

1. Squeeze out excess water: It’s crucial to remove as much water as possible from the zucchini and potatoes. The drier the vegetables, the crispier your fritters will be.
2. Add extra flavor: If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili flakes to the fritter mixture.
3. Customize the cheese: Use any type of cheese you prefer or have on hand. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta can add different flavors and textures to the fritters.
4. Baking alternative: If you prefer a lighter, less oily version, you can bake the fritters in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or a pan for a few minutes until warm.
• Freezer: If you want to freeze the fritters, first let them cool completely. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen in a pan or oven.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, 1-2 Fritters with Sauce)

• Calories: 200-250
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

1. Can I make these fritters gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular oats with certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, make sure any additional ingredients (like the cheese and seasonings) are also gluten-free.

2. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute or add vegetables like sweet potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers. Just ensure you squeeze out the moisture from any watery vegetables.

3. What’s a good substitute for oatmeal?

If you don’t have oats, you can use breadcrumbs or almond flour. Both options will help bind the mixture, but breadcrumbs will create a slightly different texture.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives. For the sauce, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, and ensure the mayonnaise is dairy-free.

5. How can I make the fritters crispier?

The key to crispy fritters is frying them at the right temperature. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the fritters, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Additionally, draining the fritters on a paper towel will remove excess oil and keep them crispy.

Conclusion

These Zucchini and Oatmeal Fritters are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, side, or even a main meal. The combination of healthy vegetables, hearty oats, and savory cheese makes them both nutritious and satisfying. The accompanying garlic sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick, enhancing the flavors of the fritters. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or making a quick lunch, these fritters are bound to become a favorite. Easy to prepare, adaptable to different diets, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a must-try!