Easy Zucchini Fritters
The BEST crispy zucchini fritters! Made with simple ingredients, they're golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. A foolproof way to use up summer zucchini.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 about 12 fritters
- 4 medium zucchini coarsely shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt for drawing out moisture
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1/3 cup shredded cheese Parmesan, cheddar, or your favorite
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Prepare Zucchini: Place shredded zucchini in a colander and toss with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Let stand for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
Squeeze Dry: Transfer the zucchini to a clean kitchen towel. Gather the edges and twist tightly to squeeze out every drop of excess liquid. This step is crucial for crispy fritters.
Make Batter: In a medium bowl, combine flour, beaten eggs, shredded cheese, and chives. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add the squeezed dry zucchini and stir until well combined.
Fry Fritters: Heat a generous layer of olive oil (about 2-3 tbsp) in a large skillet over medium high heat. Drop heaping tablespoons of batter into the hot pan, gently flattening each with the back of the spoon. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Cook Until Golden: Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to drain.
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh chives. Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Draining is Key: Don't skip salting and squeezing the zucchini; it's the secret to non soggy fritters.
- Cheese: Almost any shreddable cheese works. Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Herbs: Substitute chives with fresh parsley, dill, or thyme.
- Freezing: Flash freeze cooked, cooled fritters on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a 325°F oven until hot and crisp.