Crispy Zucchini Halloumi Fritters are a delightful blend of fresh zucchini and salty halloumi cheese, perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or snack. These fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavors from herbs and spices. Easy to make and delicious to eat, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis (500 g), grated
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil + extra for frying the fritters
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 3 spring onions, thinly sliced
- 180 g halloumi cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Freshly crushed black pepper
- 1 egg, whisked
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup (90 g) plain flour
Instructions
- Prep the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with sea salt flakes. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Afterward, squeeze the zucchini firmly with your hands or a clean cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the drained zucchini with minced garlic, thinly sliced spring onions, and grated halloumi cheese. Add the dried oregano, thyme, basil, smoked paprika, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to blend all the flavors together.
- Incorporate the Egg and Flour: Mix in the whisked egg and baking powder until the mixture is well combined. Gradually add the plain flour, stirring continuously until the batter binds together and holds its shape.
- Prepare the Pan: Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Ensure you have extra olive oil on hand for frying the fritters in batches.
- Shape the Fritters: Using a spoon or your hands, form the zucchini mixture into small patties. Gently place the patties into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry Until Crispy: Cook the fritters for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the fritters hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki if desired. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Crispy Zucchini Halloumi Fritters are a delicious and easy way to enjoy the fresh flavors of zucchini combined with the rich, salty taste of halloumi. These fritters make a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Their crispy texture and savory flavor will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or simply on their own for a satisfying treat!