Name: Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated); 1 tsp salt; 1 large egg; ¼ cup gluten-free flour (or regular flour); 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp paprika or chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill; 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

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These Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters are a flavorful and satisfying treat that’s perfect for a snack, side dish, or even a light meal. With a crispy exterior and tender inside, these fritters are packed with zucchini goodness and seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a healthy side dish, these fritters are the perfect option!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These zucchini fritters are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. They are incredibly easy to make, gluten-free, and a great way to use up summer zucchini. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs makes these fritters irresistible. Plus, they’re customizable – add a bit of spice, or keep them mild, depending on your preference. Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
¼ cup gluten-free flour (or regular flour)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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)

Directions

Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and cut off the ends. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander set over a bowl.
Sprinkle the zucchini with salt and toss gently to coat. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out moisture.
After 15 minutes, use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini. For best results, use a nut milk bag to extract the liquid.
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, flour, Parmesan (if using), minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika.
Add the squeezed zucchini and chopped parsley to the mixture and stir until well combined. The batter should be thick enough to hold together when scooped.
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter at a time and form small patties. Place them on a plate while you heat the oil.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the patties to the skillet, leaving space between them.
Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 10-12 fritters and takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking.

Variations

Add cheese: Stir in extra cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesy twist.
Spicy fritters: Add more paprika or chili powder, or toss in some finely chopped jalapeños for added heat.
Add herbs: Try fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for a different herbal flavor.
Vegan version: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg for a vegan version.
Dipping sauce: Serve with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch, Greek yogurt, or tzatziki for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes! If you’re not following a gluten-free diet, you can use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour.

How do I make these fritters crispy?

Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. Also, cook them on medium heat so they have enough time to crisp up without burning.

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.

Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just cook the fritters when you’re ready to serve.

How can I make these fritters more flavorful?

Experiment with adding different spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for a new flavor profile. You can also toss in some chopped spinach or other veggies for extra nutrients.

Can I freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes, after frying, let the fritters cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Reheat directly from frozen when needed.

Conclusion

Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters are the perfect combination of savory, crispy, and tender. With their simple ingredients and quick cooking time, they’re a great choice for a healthy snack, appetizer, or side dish. Whether you’re using up extra zucchini or simply craving something flavorful, these fritters are sure to become a new favorite!