These zucchini fritters are a delightful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for a light snack or side. The combination of fresh zucchinis, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of black pepper creates a savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a way to use up your garden zucchinis, this recipe is sure to please.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 150 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
- Zucchinis: 2 (about 300 grams)
- Salt: To taste
- Egg: 1 large
- Milk: 100ml (about 1/2 cup)
- Parmesan Cheese: 20 grams (about 1/4 cup), grated
- Flour: 60 grams (about 1/2 cup)
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Olive Oil: For frying
Directions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Squeeze out the excess liquid with your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and milk together until well combined.
- Add the grated zucchinis, Parmesan cheese, flour, black pepper, and baking powder. Stir until the mixture forms a thick batter.
- Cook the Fritters:
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon to form fritters.
- Cook each fritter for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the zucchini fritters hot, as a side dish or appetizer.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Enjoy with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchinis to avoid soggy fritters.
- You can substitute Parmesan with any hard cheese like pecorino or a vegan cheese alternative.
- If the batter seems too runny, add a bit more flour to thicken it.
- Cook the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring they cook evenly.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Zucchinis are low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C.
- Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium, supporting bone health.
- Olive oil provides healthy fats and antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Allergens: Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked fritters individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Healthy and Delicious: A nutritious way to enjoy vegetables with a cheesy twist.
- Versatile: Serve as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
- Family-Friendly: A great way to sneak veggies into meals for picky eaters.
Conclusion:
Zucchini fritters are a versatile and tasty dish that fits perfectly into any meal. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these fritters offer a delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchinis. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for any zucchini lover.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of flour?
- Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond or oat flour.
- Can I make these fritters without eggs?
- Yes, you can use a flax egg or a mashed banana as a binder.
- How do I prevent the fritters from becoming too soggy?
- Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out the moisture from the grated zucchinis.
- Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
- Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
- Absolutely! Try adding grated carrots, corn, or chopped spinach.
- How do I know when the fritters are done?
- The fritters should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Can I freeze the zucchini fritter batter?
- It’s best to freeze the cooked fritters, but the batter can be frozen if necessary.
- What’s the best way to reheat fritters?
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
- Can I make the fritters in advance?
- Yes, make them a day ahead and reheat before serving.
- What can I serve with these fritters?
- Serve with dips like tzatziki, aioli, or marinara sauce for added flavor.