There is nothing quite as satisfying as sinking your teeth into golden, crispy Zucchini & Feta Fritters that are bursting with fresh herbs, salty feta, and the subtle sweetness of zucchini. This dish is a delightful balance of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and fresh, perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or side. With simple ingredients that come together effortlessly, these fritters transform everyday zucchini into something truly special and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of these Zucchini & Feta Fritters lies in their simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in bringing the fritters to life. From the fresh zucchini providing moisture and body to the crumbly feta adding bursts of creamy saltiness, every element contributes to the perfect harmony of taste and texture.
- 2 medium zucchinis: Grated fresh zucchini forms the base and delivers a tender bite loaded with moisture.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta: This adds creamy saltiness and little pockets of flavor throughout the fritters.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps bind the mixture while keeping the fritters light and crispy.
- 1 egg: Acts as the essential binder to keep everything together during cooking.
- Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs (like parsley or dill): Season perfectly to enhance and lift the overall flavor profile.
- Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Zucchini & Feta Fritters
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by grating two medium zucchinis. To avoid sogginess, gently squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step ensures your fritters won’t turn watery and will crisp up beautifully when cooked.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, combine the grated zucchini with half a cup of crumbled feta, a quarter cup of flour, one beaten egg, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Stir everything together until just combined—the mix should hold together but not be too dense.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Warm a generous splash of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. You want the pan hot enough so the fritters sizzle when they hit the surface, which helps develop that fantastic crispy crust.
Step 4: Cook the Fritters
Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini and feta mixture into the hot oil, gently flattening them to form patties about 3 inches wide. Cook each fritter for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until golden, then flip carefully and cook another 3 to 4 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain even cooking and a crisp exterior.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm for the ultimate experience of crispness and melty feta goodness.
How to Serve Zucchini & Feta Fritters
Garnishes
Enhance your Zucchini & Feta Fritters with fresh garnishes like a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki for cool creaminess, a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs for brightness, or a lemon wedge to add a zesty lift that perfectly complements the feta’s saltiness.
Side Dishes
These fritters pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, tangy tomato salads, or even a simple cucumber and dill salad. For something heartier, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to create a balanced, vibrant meal everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the fritters as mini savory towers layered with dollops of herb-infused yogurt or spread them on small plates with a drizzle of chili oil for a kick. They also shine as finger foods on a party platter with an assortment of dips and fresh crudités.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the Zucchini & Feta Fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their crispness when reheated.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the fritters on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months, making them a handy, delicious snack anytime you crave them.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the fritters in a skillet over medium heat until crisp again or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make fritters soggy and lose their crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta provides a distinctive salty tang, you can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or halloumi for different flavors and textures in your fritters.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
Not at all. The skin adds color, nutrients, and texture. Just make sure to wash the zucchini well before grating.
Can I make these fritters gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. This substitution works well without compromising the fritters’ texture.
How do I keep the fritters from falling apart?
The key is squeezing out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini and using enough binder, like the egg and flour, to hold everything together during cooking.
Are these fritters suitable for freezing and reheating?
Definitely! Zucchini & Feta Fritters freeze beautifully and reheat well, making them a convenient option for quick meals or snacks when you’re short on time.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Zucchini & Feta Fritters, you are in for a treat that’s quick to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and just downright delicious every single time. They’re a little golden treasure that brings together the best of summer veggies and creamy feta in each bite. I can’t wait for you to make them and perhaps even tweak the herbs or sides to make this recipe your own go-to. Happy cooking and happy eating!