Who says you need meat to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal? These Zucchini Fritters prove otherwise, delivering all the taste and texture you could ask for in a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Paired with a creamy herbed yogurt sauce, these fritters are perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Fritters:
- 2 Zucchinis: Fresh and medium-sized, grated.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To enhance flavor.
- 3 Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 100 grams of Cheese: Grated; choose a flavorful cheese like Parmesan or sharp cheddar for best results.
- Italian Herbs: Adds a classic herby flavor.
- Paprika: For a subtle smokiness.
- 100 grams of Breadcrumbs: Provides the necessary crunch.
- 50 grams of Flour: Helps form the fritters.
- Sunflower Oil: For frying; chosen for its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons Sour Cream or Yogurt: Base of the sauce; use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 1 Cucumber: Finely grated, adds freshness.
- A sprig of Dill: Finely chopped, for a herby touch.
- 2 cloves of Garlic: Minced, for a punch of flavor.
- Salt and Paprika: To season the sauce.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Grate the zucchinis into a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Squeeze out as much water from the zucchini as possible to ensure the fritters are not soggy.
- Mix Fritter Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix the drained zucchini with eggs, grated cheese, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Set up three shallow dishes for the flour, beaten eggs, and mixed breadcrumbs with additional paprika and herbs.
- Form and Fry the Fritters:
- Heat the sunflower oil in a frying pan.
- Form the zucchini mixture into patties, dredge in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Fry each patty until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Make the Sauce:
- Mix sour cream or yogurt with cucumber, dill, garlic, salt, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the fritters hot with the herbed yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
Culinary Tips:
- Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to prevent the fritters from becoming mushy.
- Keep the oil at a consistent medium heat to avoid burning the fritters.
Health Benefits:
- Zucchini is low in calories but high in fiber, making it filling and great for digestion.
- The use of herbs and spices adds flavor without extra calories.
- Opting for Greek yogurt in the sauce adds a protein boost.
Conclusion: Zucchini Fritters with Herbed Yogurt Sauce are not just easy to make but also incredibly versatile and delicious. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a meal that’s both flavorful and fulfilling. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to cut down on meat, these fritters are sure to impress.