These crispy zucchini fritters are perfect for a light snack or meal, combining fresh zucchini with a cheesy, golden crust. The accompanying yogurt-dill sauce adds a refreshing, tangy contrast that complements the savory flavors of the fritters. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome dish ready in no time!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Ingredients
- Zucchini: 2 small, thinly sliced (do not peel)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Milk: 3 tbsp (45 ml)
- Grated Parmesan: 2-3 tbsp
- Flour: 100 g (3.5 oz) / approx. ¾ cup
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- Yogurt or sour cream: ½ cup (120 g)
- Cucumber: 1 small, finely chopped
- Dill: a handful, chopped
- Salt (for sauce): to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Batter: Beat the eggs with salt and pepper in a bowl. Stir in milk and Parmesan, then gradually add the flour and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchini into the batter and mix to coat.
- Fry the Fritters: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Make the Sauce: Combine yogurt (or sour cream), chopped cucumber, dill, and salt in a small bowl.
- Serve: Serve the hot fritters with the yogurt-dill sauce on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a light snack, appetizer, or a side dish.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Great for dipping in marinara or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the oil is hot before adding the batter to fry evenly and avoid soggy fritters.
- Add some garlic or onion powder to the batter for extra flavor.
- Use a paper towel to absorb excess oil from the fritters after frying.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, which are great for your skin and immune system.
- Yogurt provides probiotics that help with digestion and gut health.
- Parmesan cheese adds calcium for strong bones.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- To make gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free flour.
- Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and yogurt alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Calcium: 10% of daily intake
Storage
- Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results to restore crispiness.
- Yogurt-dill sauce should be kept in the fridge and used within 2 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, even on a busy weeknight.
- Deliciously crispy and cheesy with a refreshing sauce.
- A great way to use up fresh zucchini, especially during the summer season.
- Versatile enough to serve as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
Conclusion
These zucchini fritters are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy goodness with a cool, refreshing yogurt dip. The ingredients are simple, yet they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or an appetizer to impress guests, this recipe is a versatile and tasty option. The fritters are easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome homemade dish in under 35 minutes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. - Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to use the batter fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 1 hour before frying. - Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, you can freeze them after frying. Reheat in the oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. - What can I use instead of Parmesan?
You can use Pecorino Romano or any other hard cheese. - How do I prevent the fritters from being soggy?
Make sure to pat the zucchini dry before adding them to the batter, and fry in hot oil. - Can I make these fritters without eggs?
You can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) as an egg substitute. - Can I add other vegetables to the fritters?
Yes, grated carrots or finely chopped spinach would be a great addition. - What can I serve with these fritters?
They go well with yogurt sauce, tzatziki, or even a simple tomato salsa. - How can I make the fritters crispier?
Use less batter per fritter and ensure the oil is hot enough when frying.