Craving a tasty way to use zucchini? Try these Crunchy Zucchini Patties with Cheese and Herbs. Ideal as a snack, starter, or side dish, these patties offer a burst of flavor and texture. The mix of shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, and a touch of paprika enhances the zucchini’s natural taste, making these patties a hit with everyone. They’re simple to prepare and versatile enough to enjoy alone or paired with your favorite main course. Ready to whip up these crispy, cheesy treats?
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 3 eggs
- 100g (3.5 oz) grated cheese (Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon red paprika
- 100g (3.5 oz) breadcrumbs
- 50g (1.8 oz) all-purpose flour
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Start by washing the zucchini and patting them dry. Grate the zucchini using a coarse grater. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to achieving a crispy texture in your fritters.
- Season and Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes, then add the grated cheese, Italian herbs, and red paprika. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Set up three shallow bowls or plates: one with the all-purpose flour, another with the beaten eggs, and the last with the breadcrumbs. If you like, you can season the breadcrumbs with a bit more Italian herbs or paprika for extra flavor.
- Form the Fritters:
- Take a small handful of the zucchini mixture and form it into a small patty or fritter shape, about the size of the palm of your hand. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Dip each fritter first into the flour, coating it lightly.
- Finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
- Fry the Fritters:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fritters into the pan, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure the fritters cook through without burning. When finished, place the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
- Top of Form
- Bottom of Form
- Serving:
- Serve the crispy zucchini fritters hot, either on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as marinara, sour cream, or a tangy yogurt sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or as a side to grilled meats or fish.
Conclusion
These Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Cheese and Herbs are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a savory snack, or a side dish to complement your meal, these fritters are sure to satisfy. The combination of tender zucchini, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs wrapped in a crispy coating makes for a delightful bite every time. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Give this recipe a try, and savor the delicious, crispy goodness of homemade zucchini fritters!