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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Dip

crispy parmesan zucchini fritters - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini fritters are a quick and easy snack or side dish featuring fresh zucchini, nutty Parmesan, and a flavorful garlic dipping sauce. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, they offer a comforting and satisfying bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini, shredded (about 3 cups / 300g)
  • 1 cup (100g) finely grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano recommended)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (plus 1 clove for dipping sauce)
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus a pinch for dipping sauce)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 23 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
  • ½ cup (120ml) Greek yogurt (for dipping sauce, can substitute dairy-free yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for dipping sauce)

Instructions

  1. Shred the zucchini using a box grater or food processor to yield about 3 cups (300g). This takes approximately 5 minutes.
  2. Transfer shredded zucchini to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible by twisting tightly over the sink. This step takes 3-5 minutes and is crucial to avoid soggy fritters.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried zucchini, grated Parmesan, flour, eggs, 2 minced garlic cloves, sliced green onions, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly until the batter is slightly sticky and holds together when scooped.
  4. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a nonstick or cast iron skillet until shimmering.
  5. Scoop 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter into the pan, flattening gently with a spatula to form 3-inch rounds. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
  6. While fritters cook, prepare the garlic dipping sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste and chill until serving.
  7. Keep cooked fritters warm on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F / 90°C) while finishing the rest.

Notes

Squeezing out zucchini moisture is essential to avoid soggy fritters. Use medium heat to ensure fritters cook through without burning. A thin spatula helps flip fritters gently. Keep cooked fritters warm in a low oven. Batter can rest 10-15 minutes before frying to improve texture. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or gluten-free flour. Baking alternative: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, Parmesan fritters, garlic dipping sauce, crispy fritters, easy snack, gluten-free option, vegetarian