Few dishes strike the perfect balance between crispy, cheesy, and flavorful like Crispy Zucchini Halloumi Fritters. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an easy side dish, or a light vegetarian meal, these golden fritters will satisfy every craving.
The combination of grated zucchini, salty halloumi cheese, and aromatic herbs makes for an irresistible bite. The crispy outside and soft, cheesy inside create a texture you won’t be able to resist. Plus, they’re easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making these delicious zucchini fritters!
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Zucchini Halloumi Fritters
✔ Crispy and Cheesy – The perfect combination of crunch and gooey halloumi.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple steps with minimal prep time.
✔ Packed with Flavor – Herbs and smoked paprika add depth and aroma.
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Serve as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
✔ Vegetarian-Friendly – A delicious meat-free option.
Ingredients for Zucchini Halloumi Fritters
Here’s what you’ll need to make crispy zucchini fritters:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Zucchini | 2 large (500 g) | Grated, excess moisture removed |
| Sea salt flakes | 1 teaspoon | Helps draw moisture from zucchini |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon + extra | For mixing and frying |
| Garlic cloves | 2 large, minced | Adds a rich, aromatic flavor |
| Spring onions | 3, thinly sliced | Mild onion flavor |
| Halloumi cheese | 180 g, grated | Salty and chewy texture |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Enhances Mediterranean flavors |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Adds earthiness |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Complements the zucchini |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Provides a subtle smoky kick |
| Black pepper | Freshly crushed | To taste |
| Egg | 1 large, whisked | Helps bind the mixture |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon | Ensures light, fluffy fritters |
| Plain flour | ½ cup (90 g) | Helps hold everything together |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Zucchini Halloumi Fritters
1. Prep the Zucchini
- Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain.
- Squeeze the zucchini firmly using your hands or a clean cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
2. Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Drained zucchini
- Minced garlic
- Thinly sliced spring onions
- Grated halloumi cheese
- Dried oregano, thyme, basil, smoked paprika, and black pepper
- Stir everything well to blend the flavors.
3. Incorporate the Egg and Flour
- Mix in the whisked egg and baking powder.
- Gradually add the plain flour, stirring continuously until the mixture binds together.
- The batter should hold its shape when pressed together.
4. Prepare the Pan
- Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add olive oil and let it warm up before adding the fritters.
5. Shape the Fritters
- Use a spoon or your hands to form small patties with the zucchini mixture.
- Gently place the patties into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry Until Crispy
- Cook each fritter for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring a crisp texture.
7. Drain and Serve
- Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs, yogurt, or tzatziki for an extra burst of flavor!
Tips for the Best Zucchini Halloumi Fritters
✅ Remove Excess Moisture – Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini to prevent soggy fritters.
✅ Use Fresh Halloumi – The saltiness and chewy texture make a big difference.
✅ Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Add more smoked paprika or black pepper for an extra kick.
✅ Make Them Gluten-Free – Use almond flour or chickpea flour instead of plain flour.
✅ Use a Non-Stick Pan – Helps prevent sticking and ensures an even, crispy fry.
Variations of Zucchini Halloumi Fritters
1. Spicy Zucchini Fritters
- Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes to the mixture for an extra kick.
- Serve with a spicy garlic yogurt sauce.
2. Mediterranean-Style Fritters
- Mix in chopped fresh parsley and mint for a Mediterranean touch.
- Serve with lemon wedges and hummus.
3. Protein-Packed Fritters
- Add ½ cup of chickpea flour for extra plant-based protein.
- Serve with a poached egg on top for a protein boost.
4. Low-Carb Keto Zucchini Fritters
- Swap flour for almond flour to reduce carbs.
- Fry in avocado oil for a keto-friendly alternative.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Values may vary based on portion size and ingredient substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Yes! You can store the batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
2. How do I store leftover fritters?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or air fryer for best results.
3. Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes! Freeze the cooked fritters on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C).
4. What can I serve with these fritters?
Pair them with tzatziki, Greek yogurt, hummus, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
5. Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
6. Can I make these fritters vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use vegan cheese.
Final Thoughts: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight
These Crispy Zucchini Halloumi Fritters are the perfect combination of texture, flavor, and crunch. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they’re a delicious and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare.
Try them today and enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful treat that you’ll want to make again and again!