A Crispy, Savory, and Healthy Treat
Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-brown fritter bursting with the fresh flavors of zucchini, spinach, and feta cheese. Pair that with a cool, garlicky tzatziki sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing. Whether you need a light meal, a tasty appetizer, or a satisfying snack, Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki are a fantastic choice.
This dish combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with wholesome ingredients. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Plus, these fritters are easy to make, naturally vegetarian, and perfect for meal prep.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about this flavor-packed, crispy vegetarian delight!
Ingredients for Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki
These fritters and their creamy garlic tzatziki dip are made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that create the perfect balance of flavors.
For the Garlic Tzatziki
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Greek yogurt | 1 ½ cups |
Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
Small cucumber, peeled and chopped | 1 |
Olive oil | 2 tsp |
Lemon juice | ½ lemon |
Dill, chopped | 2 tbsp |
Kosher salt | To taste |
For the Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Zucchini, grated | 2 medium |
Baby spinach, chopped | 3 handfuls |
Feta cheese, crumbled | ½ cup |
Fresh herbs (dill, mint, oregano), minced | ¼ cup |
Large eggs, lightly beaten | 3 |
Scallions, minced | 2 |
Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
All-purpose flour | ⅓ cup |
Baking powder | ½ tsp |
Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Olive oil (for frying) | As needed |
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s start cooking!
How to Make Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki
1. Prepare the Garlic Tzatziki
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill.
- Add salt to taste and stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Prep the Zucchini
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater.
- Place the zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
3. Make the Fritter Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Grated zucchini
- Chopped spinach
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Minced fresh herbs (dill, mint, oregano)
- Lightly beaten eggs
- Minced scallions and garlic
- Stir in the flour and baking powder, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Form and Cook the Fritters
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per fritter, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Carefully place them in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the fritters are golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the fritters on a serving platter and serve warm with the chilled garlic tzatziki.
- Garnish with extra dill or mint if desired.
- Enjoy as a light meal, snack, or appetizer!
Why You’ll Love These Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters
✅ Crispy and Flavorful – Perfectly seasoned and golden brown.
✅ Nutritious and Filling – Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.
✅ Naturally Vegetarian – A satisfying meat-free meal option.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Health Benefits of These Mediterranean Fritters
1. Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants
Zucchini, spinach, and herbs provide vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
2. High in Protein
With eggs, feta cheese, and Greek yogurt, this dish delivers a good source of protein for muscle repair and energy.
3. Supports Digestion
Greek yogurt and vegetables contain gut-friendly probiotics and fiber, aiding digestion.
4. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Option
For a lower-carb version, swap flour for almond flour and breadcrumbs for ground flaxseeds.
Customizing Your Fritters
1. Make Them Gluten-Free
- Use gluten-free flour or chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour.
2. Add More Protein
- Stir in cooked quinoa or grated halloumi for an extra protein boost.
3. Try Different Herbs and Spices
- Add cumin, paprika, or red pepper flakes for extra depth of flavor.
4. Make It Dairy-Free
- Use vegan feta and coconut yogurt for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 As a Main Course – Pair with a side salad and pita bread.
🥙 In a Wrap – Stuff into a warm pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and tzatziki.
🥗 With a Side Salad – Serve alongside a Greek or Mediterranean salad.
🍳 For Breakfast – Enjoy with poached or fried eggs for a protein-packed start.
Storage and Reheating Tips
1. Refrigeration
- Store fritters in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep the tzatziki refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing
- Freeze cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
3. Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Skillet: Reheat in a dry pan over medium heat until warm and crispy.
FAQs About Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters
1. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.
2. How do I keep my fritters from being soggy?
Make sure to squeeze out excess liquid from the zucchini before mixing the batter.
3. Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.
Final Thoughts: A Crispy, Savory, and Healthy Delight
These Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki are a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean flavors. They’re crispy, cheesy, packed with veggies, and perfect for any occasion.
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Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki: A Delightful Vegetarian Dish
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 fritters 1x
Description
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters are bursting with Mediterranean flavors! Paired with a cool, garlicky tzatziki sauce, they make the perfect vegetarian appetizer, light meal, or snack. Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, these fritters are a great way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish!
Ingredients
For the Garlic Tzatziki
- 1 ½ cups Greek yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Kosher salt, to taste
For the Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 3 handfuls baby spinach, chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (dill, mint, oregano), minced
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 scallions, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
Instructions
Preparing the Garlic Tzatziki
- In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
- Season with salt to taste and stir well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Preparing the Fritters
-
Grate and Drain the Zucchini
- Place the grated zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Afterward, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
-
Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, minced herbs, beaten eggs, minced scallions, and garlic.
- Stir in the flour and baking powder, mixing until well incorporated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
-
Form and Cook the Fritters
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter for each fritter and flatten slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Serving
- Arrange the warm fritters on a serving platter.
- Serve with chilled garlic tzatziki on the side.
- Garnish with extra dill or mint, if desired.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the fritters in batches.
- To make them gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for chickpea or almond flour.
- Feta adds saltiness, so taste the batter before adding extra salt.
- Tzatziki gets better over time, so make it ahead for maximum flavor!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean