How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Easy Recipe

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy recipe that the whole family will love? Well, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m super excited to share with you my secret to making the crispiest, most flavorful zucchini fritters you’ve ever tasted. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or even as a tasty side dish for your next gathering, these zucchini fritters are a game-changer. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights
• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
• Customizable to suit your dietary needs (gluten-free, vegetarian, and more)
• Kid-friendly and a great way to get everyone eating their veggies
• Perfect as a side dish or even as a light meal

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious zucchini fritters:

• 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)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these crispy zucchini fritters. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!

1. Prepare the Zucchini

Start by washing and grating the zucchinis. You can use either a box grater or a food processor for this step. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and gently squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for getting that perfect crispiness!

2. Remove Excess Moisture

After squeezing out the moisture, transfer the zucchini to a large bowl. Sprinkle the salt over the zucchini and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out any remaining moisture. Then, give it another good squeeze with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Don’t skip this step—it’s key to avoiding soggy fritters!

3. Mix the Batter

In the same bowl with the zucchini, add the egg, gluten-free flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic, black pepper, paprika or chili powder, parsley or dill, and mix everything together until well combined. The batter should be thick but still pourable. If it feels too wet, you can add a little more flour.

4. Shape the Fritters

Using your hands or a spoon, shape the batter into small patties, about ¼ inch thick. You should end up with around 8-10 fritters, depending on the size you prefer. Don’t make them too thick, as they might not cook evenly.

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 patties 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 batter.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the fritters are done, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, a side salad, or even as a side dish for your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites or Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls. They’re also a fantastic addition to a quick family dinner or a weeknight meal prep!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• For extra crispiness, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet—fry the fritters in batches if necessary.
• Add a little paprika or chili powder for a spicy kick if you prefer a bit of heat.
• Experiment with different herbs like parsley, dill, or even cilantro for a fresh flavor.

How to Serve

These zucchini fritters are so versatile! You can serve them as a main dish with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken, or as a quick side dish alongside your favorite easy pasta recipes. They’re also a great addition to a 30-minute meal prep for a healthy and tasty weeknight dinner idea.

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 their crispiness.

And there you have it—crispy, delicious, and easy zucchini fritters that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a healthy side dish, or a tasty meal prep idea, this recipe has got you covered. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media!