Zucchini croquettes are a delightful and light snack or appetizer, perfect for any occasion. These croquettes are crispy on the outside and soft, moist, and flavorful on the inside. Made with fresh zucchini, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and bread crumbs, they are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The subtle sweetness of the zucchini is complemented by the rich, salty Parmesan, and a hint of garlic, making these croquettes a family favorite. They are ideal for dipping or serving alongside a fresh salad. This versatile dish is sure to impress your guests!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Zucchini – 21 oz (600 g), cut into large chunks, boiled in salted water, and squeezed
• Garlic powder – A pinch
• Fresh chopped parsley – 1 teaspoon
• Grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan – ½ cup (50 g)
• Eggs – 2
• Bread crumbs – About ¾ cup (90 g)
• Salt – To taste
• Freshly ground black pepper – To taste
• Vegetable oil for deep frying – Peanut oil is recommended

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Cut and Boil the Zucchini: Start by cutting the zucchini into large chunks. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the zucchini, and cook for about 10-12 minutes until the zucchini is tender. Be careful not to overcook, as you want the zucchini to hold some texture.
2. Drain and Squeeze: Once the zucchini is cooked, drain it in a colander and let it cool slightly. After cooling, use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the croquettes from becoming too soggy.

Step 2: Make the Zucchini Mixture

1. Mash the Zucchini: Transfer the drained zucchini to a large mixing bowl and mash it with a fork or potato masher. It should have a somewhat smooth consistency but still retain some texture.
2. Add the Seasonings and Cheese: To the mashed zucchini, add a pinch of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh parsley, and ½ cup (50 g) of grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Add the Eggs and Bread Crumbs: Crack two eggs into the zucchini mixture and stir well. Gradually add about ¾ cup (90 g) of bread crumbs to the mixture. The bread crumbs will help bind the mixture together. You want the consistency to be firm enough to hold its shape, so adjust the bread crumbs as needed.
4. Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give the mixture a final stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Croquettes

1. Form the Croquettes: Using your hands, take small portions of the zucchini mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and shape them into oval or round croquettes. You can flatten them slightly for even cooking.
2. Prepare for Frying: Place the shaped croquettes on a tray or plate. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate the croquettes for about 15-20 minutes to help them firm up before frying.

Step 4: Fry the Croquettes

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot, heat enough peanut oil to deep-fry the croquettes. The oil should be heated to around 350°F (180°C). To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles and turns golden within 30-40 seconds, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Croquettes: Carefully place the croquettes into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the Croquettes: Once the croquettes are golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve Hot: Serve the zucchini croquettes hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. These croquettes are great on their own or paired with a dipping sauce like marinara, tzatziki, or aioli.

Cooking Tips:

• Squeeze the Zucchini Well: Removing as much moisture as possible from the zucchini is crucial for achieving crispy croquettes. After boiling, be sure to thoroughly squeeze out the water.
• Adjusting the Consistency: If the zucchini mixture feels too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs to firm it up. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of beaten egg or a splash of milk to balance it out.
• Customizing the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with the flavors by adding different herbs, like basil or oregano, or incorporating a bit of grated onion or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Baking Instead of Frying: For a lighter version, you can bake the croquettes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked croquettes by placing them on a tray in the freezer until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 220-250 kcal
• Protein: 10-12 g
• Fat: 15-18 g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18 g
• Fiber: 3-4 g
• Sugar: 2-3 g
• Sodium: 350-400 mg

Zucchini croquettes are a relatively light and nutritious snack, providing a good balance of protein from the Parmesan cheese and eggs, along with healthy fats from the peanut oil used for frying. Zucchini is rich in fiber and vitamins, making these croquettes a guilt-free indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use gluten-free bread crumbs? Yes, you can substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

2. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the zucchini mixture a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and when ready to cook, shape the croquettes and fry them fresh.

3. How can I make the croquettes crispier? To make the croquettes extra crispy, you can roll them in additional bread crumbs before frying. You can also double-fry them by frying for 2 minutes, removing them from the oil to rest, then frying again until fully crisp.

4. Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying them? Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake the croquettes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), brush the croquettes with a little olive oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. What dipping sauces pair well with zucchini croquettes? Zucchini croquettes pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, tzatziki, aioli, or even a simple squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion:

Zucchini croquettes are the perfect way to turn a simple vegetable into a crispy, flavorful snack or appetizer. With the combination of fresh zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic, these croquettes offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own, they are guaranteed to impress. Easy to make and customizable to suit your taste, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for any occasion, these zucchini croquettes are sure to become a family favorite!