How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters—Easy Recipe!

Looking for a delicious and easy way to incorporate more veggies into your meals? Well, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing my secret to making the crispiest, most flavorful zucchini fritters you’ve ever tasted. Perfect for a quick family dinner or as a healthy side dish, these zucchini fritters are a game-changer. And the best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner ideas. Plus, they’re a great way to use up that zucchini that’s been sitting on your counter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these fritters are irresistible!
• Packed with fresh zucchini and herbs for a burst of flavor.
• Quick to prepare and cooks in just minutes—perfect for busy evenings.
• Gluten-free option available, making it a great choice for all dietary needs.
• Can be served as a side dish, snack, or even as a light lunch.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious zucchini fritters. Don’t worry, the full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

Zucchini Fritters Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup gluten-free flour (for a GF option)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to make these crispy zucchini fritters. It’s easier than you think, and you’ll be enjoying them in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by washing and grating the zucchinis. You can use a box grater or a food processor with the shredding attachment for this step. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for getting that crispy exterior, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

Sprinkle the salt over the grated zucchini and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out even more moisture. After 10 minutes, give the zucchini another good squeeze in the towel to remove any remaining liquid.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, egg, gluten-free flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic, black pepper, paprika or chili powder (if using), and chopped parsley or dill. Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the fritters dense.

Step 4: Shape the Fritters

Using your hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small patties, about ¼ inch thick. You should end up with around 8-10 fritters, depending on the size you prefer.

Step 5: Fry the Fritters

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the zucchini fritters in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining fritters.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the fritters are done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, a side salad, or as a side dish for your next Best Vegetable Casserole or Perfect Roasted Asparagus and Carrots.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your zucchini fritters turn out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip the moisture removal step. Extra moisture will make the fritters soggy, so take the time to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
• Use the right oil. Olive oil works beautifully for frying, but you can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the fritters in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• Experiment with flavors. Add a bit of chili powder for a spicy kick or some dried herbs for extra flavor.

How to Serve

These zucchini fritters are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• As a side dish for your next Savory Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables or grilled meats.
• As a snack on their own with a dipping sauce like tzatziki or marinara.
• As a light lunch with a fresh green salad.
• As a topping for a quick family dinner or a 30-minute meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to make these zucchini fritters ahead of time, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply shape and fry them as instructed. Cooked fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

There you have it—my secret recipe for crispy, delicious zucchini fritters that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a quick snack, or a flavorful addition to your next weeknight dinner, these fritters are sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, give them a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below!