Ingredients

• Courgette (Zucchini): 1, grated
• Salt: To draw out moisture from the zucchini
• Oat Flakes: 4 tablespoons
• Cheese: 100 g, grated (use your preferred variety, such as Cheddar, Parmesan, or Mozzarella)
• Eggs: 2, beaten
• Pepper: To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Grate the Zucchini

1. Start by grating the zucchini into a large bowl. Use a fine or medium-sized grater to get even shreds.
2. Sprinkle salt over the grated zucchini and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. The salt will help to draw out excess moisture, which is essential for making the fritters crispy.

Step 2: Drain the Zucchini

1. After letting the salted zucchini sit, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crisp fritters instead of soggy ones.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

1. In the bowl with the drained zucchini, add the oat flakes. These will help to absorb any remaining moisture and act as a binder.
2. Stir in the grated cheese. The type of cheese you use will determine the flavor, so feel free to experiment with different varieties like cheddar for sharpness or mozzarella for a milder taste.
3. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and add them to the mixture.
4. Season with pepper and any additional herbs or spices you like. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Form the Fritters

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil to coat the surface.
2. Scoop out small portions of the zucchini mixture and shape them into flat patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
3. Place the fritters into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

1. Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them carefully to ensure they stay intact.
2. Once they are fully cooked, remove them from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the zucchini cheese fritters hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad. They pair well with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick.

Cooking Tips

• Moisture Control: Squeezing out the moisture from the zucchini is critical. If the zucchini holds too much water, the fritters will turn out mushy. You can also pat the grated zucchini dry with paper towels after salting it.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Parmesan gives a sharp, salty flavor, while a softer cheese like Mozzarella makes the fritters more gooey.
• Optional Add-Ins: You can add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the batter for extra flavor. A bit of garlic powder or onion powder can also add depth to the taste.
• Baking Alternative: If you prefer a healthier, less oily version, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fritters on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: These fritters freeze well! After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them in the oven directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 170 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg

FAQs

1. Can I make these fritters gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these fritters gluten-free by substituting the oat flakes with gluten-free oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can use almond flour for an even healthier option.

2. Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini?

Yes, you can substitute or add in other grated vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spinach. Just make sure to remove excess moisture, especially with water-heavy vegetables like zucchini.

3. What’s the best way to make the fritters extra crispy?

The key to making crispy fritters is squeezing out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini and not overcrowding the pan when frying. You can also increase the heat slightly during the last minute of frying to crisp up the edges.

4. Are zucchini fritters keto-friendly?

These fritters can be made keto-friendly by using almond flour or coconut flour in place of oats. Keep an eye on the carb content of the cheese you choose, and avoid any high-carb varieties.

5. How can I make the fritters healthier?

To make the fritters healthier, you can bake them instead of frying them in oil. Additionally, using a low-fat cheese and adding more vegetables, such as spinach or carrots, will increase the fiber and nutrient content.

Conclusion

Zucchini Cheese Fritters are a versatile and easy dish that works as a side, snack, or light main meal. Packed with flavor from the cheese and well-balanced with the tender zucchini, these fritters are sure to be a hit at any table. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, they offer a nutritious option that can be adjusted for gluten-free, keto, or vegetarian diets. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fritters are simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. Enjoy them with a dollop of yogurt or your favorite dip!