why make this recipe
Zucchini Parmesan Fritters are a delicious way to enjoy summer’s star vegetable, zucchini. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish. This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Not only are they tasty, but they are also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet!
how to make Zucchini Parmesan Fritters
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp water
Directions:
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean dish towel or cheesecloth.
- In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini, egg, flour, black pepper, kosher salt, Parmesan cheese, and water. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small patties.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Coat each patty in breadcrumbs, then fry in batches until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with marinara sauce.
how to serve Zucchini Parmesan Fritters
Serve the Zucchini Parmesan Fritters warm alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. They make a lovely appetizer for parties, a snack for kids, or a side dish for dinner. You can also garnish them with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added flavor.
how to store Zucchini Parmesan Fritters
If you have leftover fritters, let them cool completely first. Then, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven to retain their crispiness.
tips to make Zucchini Parmesan Fritters
- Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. This helps the fritters crisp up better during frying.
- You can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like basil or oregano to the batter.
- Adjust the thickness of the patties according to your preference; thinner ones will be crispier!
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables such as carrots, corn, or bell peppers. For a spicier kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
FAQs
Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the fritters! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Fresh zucchini is best for this recipe. If using frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing.
How can I make these fritters vegan?
You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent and skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
