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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
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. - Extract 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. - Make the Batter:
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. - Form and Cook the Fritters:
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 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:
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- 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 in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up again. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
