Golden-fried fritters made with grated zucchini, Parmesan, fresh herbs, and aromatic garlic—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with Italian flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Crisp and flavorful: Crunchy edges with a tender, cheesy interior.
-
Vegetable-packed: A delicious way to enjoy zucchini with minimal effort.
-
Simple ingredients: Common pantry and fridge staples come together easily.
-
Quick to make: Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
-
Perfect appetizer or side: Great for entertaining or pairing with a meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
2 medium zucchini (about 12 oz total), grated
-
½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
-
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
-
¼ cup all-purpose flour
-
1 large egg
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (or basil)
-
¼ tsp black pepper
-
1/4 tsp dried oregano (optional)
-
2 Tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil), for frying
-
For serving (optional): lemon wedges, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli
Directions
-
Prep zucchini
Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, sprinkle with ½ tsp salt, and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This ensures crisp fritters. -
Mix batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, pepper, and oregano if using. Stir in the drained zucchini and gently fold in flour until evenly coated. -
Form fritters
Scoop about 2 Tbsp of zucchini mixture per fritter and shape into patties roughly 2–3 inches across and ½-inch thick. -
Heat oil
Warm 1 Tbsp of oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering. -
Fry fritters
Add fritters in a single layer, leaving room to flip. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and repeat with remaining oil and batter. -
Serve
Taste and season with additional salt if needed. Serve warm, with a squeeze of lemon or dipping sauce such as marinara or garlic aioli.
Servings and timing
-
Yield: 12–16 fritters (3–4 servings)
-
Prep time: 10 minutes
-
Cook time: 10 minutes
-
Total time: ~20 minutes
Variations
-
Cheesy twist: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or feta.
-
Spicy style: Add ¼ tsp crushed red pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.
-
Herb variation: Swap parsley for fresh dill, chives, or thyme.
-
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour.
-
Baked option: Bake on a lined 400°F sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
storage/reheating
-
Refrigerator: Store cooled fritters in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 3–5 minutes until crisp; pan-fry for best texture.
-
Freezer: Flash-freeze fritters on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in oven or air-fryer.
FAQs
1. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes – grated yellow squash works well. Drain thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
2. Why do I need to squeeze out zucchini?
Removing moisture ensures the fritters hold together and crisp up nicely.
3. Can I make these ahead?
Form patties and refrigerate uncooked for up to 4 hours; cook just before serving.
4. Are they vegetarian?
Yes – completely vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free.
5. How do I prevent them from sticking?
Heat the pan properly and don’t crowd the fritters; allow space to flip.
6. Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely – grated carrots, corn kernels, or finely chopped spinach are delicious additions.
7. What dipping sauces go well?
Serve with marinara, garlic aioli, tzatziki, or a squeeze of lemon.
8. Can I bake them instead?
Yes – bake on a lined sheet at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
9. How do I keep them crisp?
Let them cool briefly on a rack; for storage, reheat in a hot oven or pan.
10. Can I freeze after cooking?
Yes – after cooling, freeze in a single layer then transfer to a bag; reheat to crisp.
Conclusion
Italian Zucchini Fritters are a quick, flavorful way to enjoy zucchini—crispy, cheesy, and packed with fresh Italian herbs. Whether as a snack, side, or appetizer, these fritters are versatile, easy to prepare, and a satisfying way to up your veggie game. Enjoy them hot, crispy, and full of flavor!
