Description
These Crispy and Easy Zucchini Fritters are a delicious and quick way to enjoy fresh zucchini. Grated zucchini is combined with egg, gluten-free flour, herbs, and optional Parmesan, then pan-fried to golden perfection. They make a perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish that’s naturally gluten-free and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchinis and cut off the ends. Grate them using a box grater or food processor, then place in a colander.
- Draw out moisture: Sprinkle the grated zucchini with salt and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This process helps remove excess water, which is essential for crisp fritters.
- Remove excess liquid: Using your hands or a clean kitchen towel, firmly squeeze the zucchini to extract as much moisture as possible to ensure a good texture.
- Make the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, gluten-free flour, Parmesan cheese (if using), minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika until smooth. Add the zucchini and parsley, stirring until well combined.
- Form fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time and shape into small patties of even thickness. Place each formed fritter on a plate.
- Cook the fritters: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fritters in batches, cooking each side for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the zucchini fritters warm with your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream or tzatziki, and garnish with extra parsley for freshness.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
- You can substitute gluten-free flour with all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice umami flavor and helps with crispiness.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a bright, fresh taste.
- Cook fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which lowers the oil temperature and inhibits crispiness.
