These zucchini fritters are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the fresh flavors of zucchini, herbs, and feta cheese. The combination of crispy, golden-brown fritters with the tangy taste of lemon makes this dish perfect for any meal. Follow these simple steps to create a savory treat that everyone will love!
Preparation Time:
Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Fritters:
12 ounces zucchini or summer squash (1 large or 2 small zucchini)
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for sprinkling
2 large eggs
1 medium lemon (zest and wedges)
2 medium scallions, finely chopped
6 sprigs fresh parsley or fresh dill (or a combination), chopped
1 sprig fresh mint (optional), chopped
2 1/2 ounces feta cheese (1/2 cup crumbled)
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Instructions:
Prepare the Zucchini:
Trim and grate the zucchini or summer squash 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 2 large eggs with a fork until broken up.
Finely grate the zest of 1 medium lemon (about 2 teaspoons) and add it to the eggs.
Add the chopped scallions, parsley or dill, and mint (if using) to the bowl.
Crumble the feta cheese into pieces no larger than 1/2-inch and add to the bowl.
Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir to combine.
Combine Zucchini and Egg Mixture:
After the zucchini has drained, pick it up a handful at a time, squeeze out as much liquid as possible, and add it to the egg mixture.
Stir with a flexible spatula until combined.
Add Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder evenly over the top of the mixture.
Fold with the 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, cooking 4 fritters at a time.
Gently pat down each fritter until about 3 inches wide.
Pan-fry until golden-brown on the bottom, about 2 1/2 minutes. Carefully flip with a flat spatula and cook until the second side is golden-brown and cooked through, about 2 1/2 minutes more.
Transfer the cooked fritters to a serving plate.
Cook Remaining Batter:
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter.
Serve:
Serve the fritters warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Serving Suggestions:
These fritters pair well with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side.
Serve with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Cooking Tips:
Squeezing Zucchini: Ensure you squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
Herb Substitutes: You can experiment with other herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
Zucchini: Low in calories, high in water content, and a good source of vitamins A and C.
Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy texture and provides calcium and protein.
Herbs: Fresh herbs add flavor without extra calories and provide antioxidants.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: Yes
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Storage:
Leftover fritters can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 8 minutes.
Conclusion:
Zucchini fritters are a flavorful and healthy dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Enjoy these delicious fritters as a snack, appetizer, or a light meal!
FAQ:
1. Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini?
Yes! You can substitute zucchini with other grated vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or squash.
2. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. However, it’s best to cook them just before serving for optimal crispiness.
3. How do I prevent the fritters from being soggy?
Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the grated zucchini as possible before mixing it with the other ingredients.
4. Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked fritters. If freezing cooked fritters, layer them with parchment paper and store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
5. What can I serve with the fritters?
They pair well with Greek yogurt, tzatziki sauce, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.
6. How do I make these fritters vegan?
To make them vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a dairy-free feta cheese alternative.
7. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used as a substitute, but use them sparingly since they are more concentrated in flavor.
8. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option, though it may alter the texture slightly.
9. How do I know when the fritters are done cooking?
The fritters should be golden-brown on both sides and firm to the touch when fully cooked.
10. What is the best way to reheat leftover fritters?
The best way to reheat them is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes, which helps to restore their crispiness.