Zesty Zucchini Fritters
Looking for a way to make zucchini shine? These Zesty Zucchini Fritters are your answer. With a crispy exterior and a burst of flavor from lemon zest and Parmesan, they transform a humble vegetable into something special.
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Ingredients for Zesty Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini is the star, bringing moisture and a mild flavor. We draw out excess water to keep the fritters crisp. Salt helps release that moisture. All-purpose flour binds everything together, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. Green onions provide a hint of sharpness. The egg acts as a binder, and garlic gives a subtle kick. Lemon zest introduces a zesty brightness. Black pepper enhances the flavors, and olive oil is for frying to golden perfection.
Zesty Zucchini Fritters Tips & Tricks
- Use a food processor to grate zucchini faster, especially if making large batches.
- Ensure your skillet is well-heated before frying to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to keep the temperature consistent and achieve a crispy texture.
Serving Ideas for Zesty Zucchini Fritters
These fritters pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. They also shine next to a fresh salad or as a side to grilled chicken. For a Mediterranean vibe, serve with tzatziki sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different cheese?
- Yes, feta or cheddar can be great substitutes for Parmesan.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to retain crispiness.
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely, prepare the batter ahead and fry when ready to serve.
Zesty Zucchini Fritters Recipe Walkthrough
Start by grating your zucchini. Use the large holes of a box grater for best results. Once grated, sprinkle with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out the water. After waiting, squeeze the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy fritters.
Next, grab a large bowl and mix the zucchini with flour, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, garlic, lemon zest, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. You should end up with a thick batter.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet. Gently flatten each spoonful with a spatula. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
Once done, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps soak up any excess oil. Serve them hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zing.
Why This Zesty Zucchini Fritters Works
- Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes.
- A fantastic way to use up zucchini when your garden overflows.
- The lemon zest adds a refreshing twist you'll crave.
- Kid-friendly and perfect for sneaking in more veggies.
- Great as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil for frying
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Grate the zucchinis and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
- 2. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel.
- 3. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, garlic, lemon zest, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- 4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 5. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula.
- 6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- 7. Transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- 8. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.