Zucchini fritters are a fantastic way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. These crispy, golden-brown delights are infused with the aromatic goodness of herbs and tangy feta cheese, making them perfect for any meal. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or light main course, these fritters are quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With a hint of lemon to brighten the flavors, they’re a great addition to your recipe collection.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Zucchini or Summer Squash: 12 ounces (1 large or 2 small), grated (340 grams)
- Kosher Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons, plus more for sprinkling
- Large Eggs: 2
- Lemon, zested: 1 medium (2 teaspoons zest)
- Scallions: 2 medium, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup or 25 grams)
- Fresh Parsley or Dill: 6 sprigs (2 tablespoons, finely chopped)
- Fresh Mint (optional): 1 sprig (1 tablespoon, finely chopped)
- Feta Cheese, crumbled: 2 1/2 ounces (1/2 cup or 70 grams)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: to taste
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup (60 grams)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, divided
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Trim and grate the zucchini on the large holes of a box grater into a colander (about 3 cups).
- Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and toss to combine.
- Let sit in the sink or over a bowl for at least 15 minutes to drain excess moisture.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until broken up.
- Add the lemon zest, chopped scallions, parsley or dill, mint (if using), crumbled feta cheese, remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Combine Zucchini and Egg Mixture:
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini by hand and add it to the egg mixture. Stir until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients:
- Sprinkle the flour and baking powder evenly over the top. Fold with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
- Cook the Fritters:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Drop 1/4-cup portions of the batter into the pan, forming 4 fritters at a time. Gently pat each fritter to about 3 inches wide.
- Pan-fry until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 1/2 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the second side until golden brown, about 2 1/2 minutes more.
- Transfer to a serving plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil as needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the fritters warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.
- Pair with a side of grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a snack with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Tips
- Squeezing Zucchini: Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
- Herb Substitutes: Experiment with other herbs like basil, cilantro, or chives for a different flavor profile.
- Crispy Fritters: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the batter to achieve crispy edges.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from zucchini and fresh herbs.
- Feta cheese provides protein and calcium.
- Olive oil offers healthy fats that are good for heart health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free flour.
- Vegan: No, contains eggs and cheese.
- Dairy-Free: No, contains feta cheese.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 450mg
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350ºF (175ºC) oven for about 8 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for any time of the day.
- Versatile and adaptable with various herbs and cheeses.
- Healthy and nutritious, loaded with fresh vegetables and healthy fats.
- Perfectly crispy and delicious, with a tangy flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Conclusion
These zucchini fritters with herbs and feta are a versatile and delicious option for any meal. With their crisp texture and fresh flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a tasty appetizer, or a light meal, these fritters offer a nutritious and flavorful choice. Try them today and see how they bring a delightful twist to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta, or even grated Parmesan for a different flavor. Keep in mind that each cheese will slightly alter the taste and texture of the fritters. - Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just make sure the consistency of the batter remains similar to ensure proper cooking. - Can I bake these fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the fritters at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. However, they may not be as crispy as when pan-fried. - What can I do if the batter is too wet?
If the batter is too wet, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a consistency that holds together when forming the fritters. Also, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. - How do I prevent the fritters from sticking to the pan?
Ensure your pan is well-heated before adding the oil, and use a nonstick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and cause sticking. - Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the fritters soon after preparing the batter to maintain their texture. However, you can grate and drain the zucchini ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to mix it with the other ingredients. - How long can I store leftover fritters, and how should I reheat them?
Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in a 350ºF oven for about 8 minutes, or until warmed through, to restore their crispiness. - Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, you can freeze cooked fritters. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. - What can I serve with zucchini fritters?
Zucchini fritters pair well with a variety of dips such as tzatziki, Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a simple lemon-garlic aioli. They also complement a fresh salad or can be served as a side dish to grilled meats. - Can I make these fritters without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or a store-bought egg replacer for a vegan option.