Zucchini fritters are a versatile and delicious dish that can serve as an appetizer, side, or even a light main course. Made from grated zucchini mixed with a variety of ingredients such as eggs, cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, these fritters are pan-fried until golden and crispy. They offer a fantastic way to use up surplus zucchini, especially during the summer months when this vegetable is in abundance.
Cooking zucchini fritters is straightforward. The key step involves salting the grated zucchini and letting it sit to draw out excess moisture, which ensures the fritters will be crispy rather than soggy. After mixing the ingredients, the mixture is shaped into patties and pan-fried in olive oil until each side is beautifully browned.
Zucchini fritters can be enjoyed on their own, with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, or with a side salad for a complete meal. They are a delightful way to enjoy the fresh, mild flavor of zucchini in a form that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander over the sink. Add salt and gently toss to combine. Let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for preventing soggy fritters.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into patties. If the mixture is too wet to hold its shape, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Cook: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a generous amount of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
- Serve: Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm, optionally with a side of sour cream or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Enjoy your delicious zucchini fritters as a tasty appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course! They’re perfect for incorporating more vegetables into your meals in a flavorful way.