These Zucchini and Vegetable Patties are a delightful and nutritious option for a quick dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, they’re perfect for a satisfying meal. Paired with a creamy yogurt sauce, this recipe offers a tasty and healthy twist on classic veggie patties. Easy to make and full of flavor, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 2 potatoes (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 carrot (about 1/2 cup grated)
- 100g mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup shredded)
- Chives (a handful, finely chopped)
- 2 eggs
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp oatmeal (about 15 grams)
- Vegetable fat (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 150g yogurt (about 2/3 cup)
- Fresh herbs (any greens, finely chopped, to taste)
- Garlic (minced, to taste)
- Salt, pepper, paprika (to taste)
Directions:
- Prep Vegetables:
- Wash and peel the potatoes, carrot, and zucchini. Grate them using a grater.
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated vegetables using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Finely chop the chives and garlic.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the grated vegetables, chopped chives, garlic, eggs, oatmeal, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Cook Patties:
- Heat vegetable fat in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Form the vegetable mixture into patties and place them gently in the hot pan.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt with finely chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve:
- Once the patties are cooked, drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Serve the patties hot, topped with slices of mozzarella cheese and accompanied by the yogurt sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the patties with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy as a light lunch or as a hearty snack.
- Pair with a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice for a more substantial dish.
- Top with additional fresh herbs for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the pan is hot before adding the patties to get a crisp exterior.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Press the patties gently with a spatula for an even cook.
- Adjust the seasoning of the patties and sauce according to your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Vegetables: Provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the zucchini, potatoes, and carrot.
- Protein Source: Eggs and mozzarella cheese add protein to the dish.
- Low in Calories: A great option for a light yet satisfying meal.
- Healthy Fats: Use of vegetable fat for frying can be replaced with a small amount of olive oil for a healthier option.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free: Make sure the oatmeal is certified gluten-free if needed.
- Low-Carb Option: Can be adapted by reducing the amount of potatoes.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Flavorful: Combines fresh vegetables with gooey mozzarella and a tangy yogurt sauce.
- Healthy: Packed with nutrients and can be adapted to suit dietary needs.
- Versatile: Great for various meals and easy to customize with different herbs and spices.
Conclusion: These Zucchini and Vegetable Patties are a delicious, nutritious option that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With a crispy exterior and a tender interior, they are complemented by a creamy yogurt sauce that adds extra flavor. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a tasty format. Enjoy making and sharing these patties with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use cheddar, feta, or any cheese of your choice.
- What can I substitute for oatmeal?
- You can use breadcrumbs or ground flaxseed as alternatives.
- Can I make these patties in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
- What if I don’t have chives?
- You can use green onions, parsley, or dill instead.
- How do I make the patties vegan?
- Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute and use vegan cheese.
- Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
- Yes, bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How can I make the patties spicier?
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for extra heat.
- What other vegetables can I add?
- You can add finely grated or chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- How do I know when the patties are done cooking?
- The patties should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through in the center.
- Can I use non-dairy yogurt for the sauce?
- Yes, you can use coconut, almond, or soy yogurt as a dairy-free alternative.