These Zucchini, Mushroom, and Pea Fritters are a delicious and healthy option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome oats, these fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The combination of zucchini, mushrooms, peas, and a touch of cheese creates a savory flavor that’s perfectly balanced. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a tasty snack, these fritters are sure to satisfy your hunger while providing a nutrient-rich dish. They’re also an excellent way to sneak in extra vegetables and enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini, grated
- 3 celery stems, chopped
- 7 mushrooms, sliced
- 300 grams frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (to taste)
- Fresh green onions, chopped (to taste)
- 150 grams cheese, grated (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
- 6 tablespoons oatmeal
- 3 eggs
- Olive oil, for frying and cooking
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with a little salt and let it rest for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze out the remaining liquid from the zucchini.
- While the zucchini is resting, chop the celery and green onions, and slice the mushrooms.
- In a large pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and mushrooms, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the mushrooms have released their moisture. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Fritter Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sautéed celery and mushrooms, frozen peas (you can defrost them if you prefer), chopped parsley, and chopped green onions. Add the grated cheese, oatmeal, and eggs to the bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together until well combined. The oatmeal and eggs will help bind the mixture together.
3. Form the Fritters:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Take spoonfuls of the fritter mixture and form small patties with your hands or a spoon. Place them carefully into the hot skillet. Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve:
- Once the fritters are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the fritters warm with a side of yogurt or a fresh green salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dipping sauce: A tangy yogurt-based sauce or tzatziki pairs wonderfully with these fritters.
- Pair with a salad: These fritters make an excellent side dish for a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Add a side of rice: For a more filling meal, serve these fritters with a side of rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips
- Drain the zucchini well: It’s essential to squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated zucchini, or your fritters might become soggy.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Make them gluten-free: Replace the oatmeal with gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Variations to Try
- Add more vegetables: You can experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers to the fritter mix.
- Add protein: For added protein, try adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even a can of drained chickpeas to the mixture.
- Use different cheese: Try different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Make them spicy: Add a diced chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the fritter mixture for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Benefits
These Zucchini, Mushroom, and Pea Fritters are packed with nutrients. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that provides vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins, while peas provide protein and additional fiber. The oats help to bind the fritters and add a dose of whole grains, and the cheese adds calcium and protein. These fritters are a great way to get a good dose of vegetables while enjoying a crispy, savory treat.
Conclusion
These Zucchini, Mushroom, and Pea Fritters are a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With their crispy exterior, savory vegetable filling, and a hint of cheese, they’re a satisfying meal or snack that’s both healthy and flavorful. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, these fritters will impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re easy to make, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Yes, you can replace or add other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers for a different flavor.
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Can I make these fritters ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the fritters in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven before serving.
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Can I freeze these fritters? Yes, you can freeze the fritters after they’ve been cooked. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or skillet.
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Can I make these fritters without cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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How do I make these fritters crispier? Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fritters to the pan. Also, allow the fritters to cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to achieve a golden, crispy crust.