Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (1)

Jamielyn Nye
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These are the best quick and easy zucchini fritters recipe that are crispy and golden on the outside, and full of flavor and tender on the inside! Done in 30 minutes!

Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2)

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Calling All Zucchini Fans!

You’re going to love this zucchini fritters recipe as a creative way to showcase all your garden-fresh zucchini. If you’re stocked up, don’t forget to use them up and make these other best zucchini recipes, zucchini boats or zucchini bread are two other favorites!

These zucchini fritters are surprisingly simple to make and so tasty. They’re lower in carbohydrates than potato pancakes but just as easy to come together.

Everything is mixed in one bowl, then the batter is scooped up and dropped into a sizzling pan. Then, shallow fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside and nice and tender on the inside. So easy!

The secret to sturdy fritters that won’t fall apart in your hands is squeezing as much water out of the zucchini as possible. You can imagine what excess water would do! I’m going to show you the tips and tricks to making perfect zucchini fritters every time!

Why We Love Zucchini Fritters

  • Kid-friendly.Such a great way to sneak in some veggies into a crispy, delicious fritter with just the right amount of grease. Serve withgarlic aiolior homemade ranch and watch everyone devour them!
  • Versatile.Serve them for breakfast, or brunch, as an appetizer, as a snack, or side. They can be enjoyed warm or cold, with or without a dip.
  • Quick and easy.In under 30 minutes, this fritter recipe is done and ready to serve! I am making it even easier by showing you tips onhow to shred zucchini.

Recipe Ingredients

Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (3)

Find thefull printable recipewith specific measurements below.

  • Zucchini:Shred 3 medium zucchini or 2 large zucchinis.
  • All-purpose flour:This is what creates the structure for the zucchini fritters.
  • Large eggs:Whisked eggs are added to the ingredients to help bind the ingredients together. They are just one of the elements that ensure these fritters stay intact.
  • Sliced green onions:A fresh, slightly pungent, vibrant flavor.
  • Sea salt & black pepper:Just a bit of seasoning to taste.
  • Olive oil:There’s no deep-frying, so just a tablespoon or two of healthy olive oil will do. More, if needed, to get a beautiful golden exterior.

Flavor Boost

Add in a clove of minced garlic and a couple of Tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese. This is where it comes in handy to knowhow to mince garlicquickly and easily.

How to Make Zucchini Fritters

Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (4)
  1. Don’t skip this step!First thing’s first. Strain and squeeze your zucchini. Place the shredded zucchini in a colander in the sink. Sprinkle it with salt, which will naturally extract some of the water through osmosis (thank you science class), and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Squeeze out excess water.Transfer zucchini to a cheesecloth, nut milk bag, or paper towel, and use your hands to squeeze out any extra water.
  3. Combine ingredients for the batter.Place the zucchini in a large bowl along with the flour, eggs, and green onions and stir until just combined.
  4. Scoop and flatten.Add the olive oil to a large heavy-bottom or cast-iron skillet and heat a bit of olive oil over medium-low heat. Use a cookie scoop to scoop up about 3 Tablespoons of mixture and drop the batter into the oil and flatten it a bit with a spatula. Repeat with as many patties that can fit in the skillet while still leaving room in between each one.
  5. Cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown. Transfer the cooked zucchini fritters to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with salt and pepper while still warm.
  6. Servewith sour cream and chives, if desired. Dig in!

Recipe Tips

  • Get rid of excess moisture.Thanks to the eggs, zucchini, and oil, these fritters will still be nice and moist on the inside even though it’s super important to squeeze out the liquid from the zucchini! Don’t skip that step.
  • Double the recipe.If you want to make another batch, easily double the recipe. Believe me, I get it. They go fast!
  • Don’t peel the skin.Zucchini skin is soft, edible, and contains fiber.
  • Browning too quickly.If you notice this happening, turn down the heat.
  • Add fritter batter to hot oil.Make sure the oil is hot before adding the zucchini mixture to the pan. If it’s not, the fritters will have more time to absorb the oil, therefore ending in potentially soggy zucchini fritters.
  • Extra flavor.Your favorite fresh herbs are a great way to add in a bit of extra flavor, if desired. Also, chopped onion, shredded carrots, or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Crispier texture.Toss in some Italian bread crumbs, Panko or homemade breadcrumbs for a little extra texture.
Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (5)

Favorite Ways to Serve Zucchini Fritters

  • On the go.They’re portable and great for packing in school lunches, or for work. Perfect as an after-school snack too!
  • Dip them!Finding your favorite dipping sauce is part of the fun of eating these babies! I love a goodgarlic aiolibecause the creamy garlic mixed with the fresh lemon juice is irresistible. A creamy dill dip,tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt, or sour cream are also fantastic options.
  • As a side dish, these are great instead of both starch or veggies, or both. Enjoy them on the side ofcrispy lemon baked fish,grilled salmon, orranch chicken, just to name a few.
  • Have them as your maindish alongside some pasta salads likeCaprese pasta salad, orSouthwestern pasta salad.

Storage

Keep leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for a few months. To reheat them, pop them in the oven to warm through.

FAQs

How to make these in the oven?

If you’re interested in baking these instead, you can! Bake for 20-24 minutes in a 400-degree oven.

Can I use yellow squash instead?

Ooh, that would be great! Go for it. They are very similar and interchangeable in most zucchini recipes.

Can I make these gluten-free?

I haven’t tested these with gluten-free flour, however, I don’t see why you couldn’t. You could use a gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose flour, almond meal, or almond flour if you have it. Let me know how it works out, I’d love to hear from you!

How do you keep fritters from falling apart?

To keep zucchini fritters from falling apart, make sure you are using the right ingredients and adding the binding agents like flour or eggs. You can also refrigerate the mixture before frying.

Why are my zucchini fritters soggy?

So, this can happen when you’re skillet and oil isn’t hot enough and you’ve dropped the zucchini batter in too soon. Doing this won’t give the exterior its initial browning quickly enough to protect the inside. So, the middle of the zucchini fritter has a longer time to absorb too much of the oil, waiting for it to heat up.

Are zucchini fritters healthy?

Yes, they deliver tons of nutrition! Making homemade zucchini fritters means you can control the amount of salt and keep it a low sodium recipe. Olive oil is a healthy fat that keeps the cholesterol and saturated fat at bay. Plus the eggs provide protein, and the zucchini itself is full of vitamin c, b, and a, minerals, and plenty of antioxidants.

Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (6)

More Ways to Use Zucchini

  • Baked Zucchini Fries: Coated in a crispy parmesan topping.
  • Roasted Zucchini and Squash: An easy and healthy side dish recipe.
  • Ratatouille: The perfect way to showcase your fresh summer vegetables.
  • Vegetable Skewers: Vibrant veggies grilled to perfection.
  • Zucchini Muffins. Moist and tender with a soft crumb and warm cinnamon flavor.

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Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (7)

Zucchini Fritters Recipe

4.99 from 73 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

These are the best quick and easy zucchini fritters recipe that are crispy and golden on the outside, and full of flavor and tender on the inside!

Prep Time: 15 minutes mins

Cook Time: 10 minutes mins

Total Time: 25 minutes mins

Video

Ingredients

  • 4 cups shredded zucchini , 3 medium or 2 large zucchinis
  • cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs , whisked
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 to 3 Tablespoons olive oil , more as needed

For serving: sour cream and green onions

    Instructions

    • Place the shredded zucchini in a colander in the sink. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes so water can strain. Use a paper towel or cheese cloth to squeeze out any extra water.

    • Place the zucchini in a bowl. Add the flour, eggs, green onions, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir just until combined.

    • Add the olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-low heat. After a minute, scoop the mixture with a large cookie scoop (or 3 Tablespoons) and add to the pan. Gently press down with a spatula and then cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Flip and then cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Turn up the heat or turn down if browning too fast.

    • Transfer cooked zucchini fritters to a plate lined with paper towel. Sprinkle the top with salt and pepper if desired. Serve the zucchini fritters with sour cream and chives if desired.

    Notes

    Variations:

    • If you want to boost the flavor ad in a clove of minced garlic
    • Add 1/4 cup shredded cheese or grated parmesan cheese.

    Air fryer: Preheat to 350°F. Spray rack with oil. Cook for 5 minutes and then flip and cook and additional 5 minutes, or until crispy.

    Storage: Store in a covered container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer on medium heat until warm.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 2fritters | Calories: 108kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 416mg | Potassium: 264mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 287IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg

    Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

    Course: Side Dish

    Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

    Categorized as: American, Appetizers, Nut-Free, Side Dishes, Stovetop, Vegetarian

    Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (8)

    Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is also the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook. Here you will find easy family-friendly recipes for every occasion.

    More about Jamielyn Nye

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    Add a comment

    70 comments

      • Lea
      • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (13)

      Loved them. Very tasty and very easy to prepare.

      • Reply
      • Lisa
      • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (14)

      Easy & Delicious! A new favorite!

      • Reply
      • Sheila Davis
      • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (15)

      These are awesome. I’m trying to adapt this for use in an air fryer, do you have any tips for that?

      • Reply
      • Jq
      • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (16)

      Absolutely delicious. I used a lil more oil them it said and cooked them a little longer for crisper. I made them thin To die for. Oh I also added a half of shredded potato to the whole mix!

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        That sounds great! I am glad that you loved these zucchini fritters.

        • Reply
      • Leo D Morton

      Can this be made in air fryer?

      • Reply
        • I Heart Naptime

        Yes! These can be placed in the air fryer for five minutes or until golden brown.

        • Reply
          • Jamie Longfellow

          I am diabetic so I am constantly watching carbs. Any idea how air frying effects the carb amount?

        • Elizabeth Webb

        I have a vegan friend who omits the eggs and flour and replaces both with besan (chick pea) flour and adds Indian curry spices. So yum!

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          That is a great idea! We will have to try that version too!

          • Reply
        • Debbie Reilly
        • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (17)

        Yummy! Zucchini one of my favorite veggies. More veggies please!

        • Reply
        • Steve
        • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (18)

        Five stars. Great recipe.

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          Thank you for the great review! Glad that you enjoyed it!

          • Reply
        • Helene

        I haven’t tried this yet but can you substitute the flour for something else?

        • Reply
          • Jamielyn Nye

          You could use an almond flour or gluten free flour. I haven’t tested with breadcrumbs, but that may work too. If you give it a shot, let us know how it goes!

          • Reply
          • Sharla Carey

          Helene, I was wondering this as well to make it keto approved… either almond flour, or possibly unflavored protein powder may work 😊

          • Reply
        • Sherri Baker

        Can I use grated zucchini in place of shredded

        • Reply
          • Taylor @ I Heart Naptime

          That should work!

          • Reply
        • Kim Fletcher
        • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (19)

        I added grated Parmesan cheese and a crushed garlic clove. they were very good! Will make again.

        • Reply
          • Taylor @ I Heart Naptime

          Mm sounds delicious. Glad you enjoyed them, Kim!

          • Reply
        • Tonya
        • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (20)

        Super great! Very flavorful and easy! A different twist when you have a lot of zucchini.

        • Reply
          • Taylor @ I Heart Naptime

          So happy to hear you enjoyed them, Tonya!

          • Reply
        • MAK
        • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (21)

        Easy and delicious!

        • Reply
        • Gerda Shymkowich

        Can I freeze these once cooked?

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          Yes you can freeze them. Make sure you reheat in a frying pan or toaster oven (they’ll be too soggy in the microwave).

          • Reply
        • Jennifer

        Can I use coconut oil?

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          Sure! It may change the flavor a bit, but should still be delicious.

          • Reply
        • kathie mason

        can these be cooked on a waffle iron?

        • Reply
          • Jamielyn Nye

          I haven’t tried, but let us know if you do! Sounds delicious :)

          • Reply
        • Susan
        • Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (22)

        These were a hit. I added our favorite Indian spice blend to them and they were really flavourful. I will be making them again but not without a milk bag or cheesecloth to make draining the juice from the zucchini easier.

        • Reply
          • I Heart Naptime

          Mmm that added spice blend sounds terrific! Glad you enjoyed the recipe, Susan :)

          • Reply
        • Paulita Sotelo

        Were great although I wish they were more crispier. I added jack cheese wonderful 👍

        • Reply

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      Easy Zucchini Fritters Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

      FAQs

      Why are my zucchini fritters falling apart? ›

      Typically, there is more than likely not enough of a binder in the fritter batter mix. Cheese, bread crumbs and eggs all act as binders and will help to hold these vegetable cakes in place. Fritters may also fall apart if you fail to use enough oil, or too much!

      Why are my vegetable fritters soggy? ›

      If you have too much oil in the pan or it isn't hot enough before you add the batter, the fritters will absorb the oil and become soggy.

      Why are my zucchini fritters sticking to the pan? ›

      If your zucchini fritters are falling apart, it's likely because the fritters are sticking to the skillet or the batter was too wet. Getting the zucchini dry before preparing the batter so the binding agents can hold the fritter together. If you have a non-stick frying pan, opt for that as well.

      How long to let zucchini sit in salt? ›

      1. Place zucchini slices in colander and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons salt. Set colander over bowl until about 1/3 cup water drains from zucchini, about 30 minutes. Rinse and thoroughly dry zucchini.

      What is fritter batter made of? ›

      Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a medium bowl. Beat egg, milk, and melted shortening together in a small bowl. Stir egg mixture into flour mixture.

      Does baking soda make fritters crispy? ›

      Is baking soda or powder best for frying? A pinch of baking soda can help produce crispy fried foods. It reacts with the acid in the batter to create carbon dioxide bubbles. These lead to an airy batter and a crisper, fluffier result.

      Why do you put baking powder in fritters? ›

      They just need a simple, light batter of flour, cornstarch, and baking powder mixed with seltzer to tie them together. The seltzer and baking powder ensure that the fritters are shatteringly crisp–even slightly tired vegetables emerge from the oil crunchy, fresh, and sweet.

      Should you rest fritter batter? ›

      Let the batter rest in the fridge before cooking.

      This will let the gluten in the batter relax, making for a nicer texture once cooked.

      How do you keep zucchini crisp when cooking? ›

      The secret to zucchini with the best flavor and texture is roasting it in a 450°F oven. Roasting zucchini at a high temperature instead of baking or sautéing helps develop browning and a slight char on the outside, which keeps it from getting soggy.

      Should zucchini bread be cool before removing from pan? ›

      Don't leave the loaf in the pan too long – Once you remove the bread from the oven, let it sit for 10 to15 minutes. But after that, it should be turned out onto a cooling rack to finish cooling. Otherwise, the edges can get a little too done in the still-hot pan.

      How can I enhance the flavor of zucchini? ›

      You can season the oil before you add the zucchini with garlic, shallots, spices, or red pepper flakes, it's totally up to you. Once the oil, butter, or combination thereof is heated, add all of the zucchini. If the pan seems crowded at first, don't worry. Season with salt and toss to begin drawing out the moisture.

      Why do you soak zucchini in salt water? ›

      Vegetables with high water content tend to become mushy and bland if they aren't rid of excess moisture before cooking. To do that, you need two things: salt and time. Salting these watery vegetables draws out extra water and flavor molecules.

      How do you keep fritters from falling apart? ›

      Get the skillet searing hot.

      A hot skillet will start cooking the fritters as soon as they hit the pan. That helps sear a crust on each fritter that will hold them together. A pan that's too cool will create a lackluster crust that could result in a floppy fritter if you're not careful.

      How do you keep fritters together? ›

      Here are some frittering tips:

      Chop everything to small dice so that the fritters stay together when frying, you are just adding enough egg and flour to barely coat the ingredients, and large chunks have a tendency to make the fritters fall apart.

      Why is my zucchini bread falling apart? ›

      The most common reason for zucchini breadand other quick breads (and cakes) to collapse as they cool is the ingredients are too vigorously or quickly mixed, which incorporates lots of less stable air bubbles into the batter.

      How do you keep breadcrumbs from falling off zucchini? ›

      Chill the breaded zucchini: It helps the breading stay stuck, which means they won't fall off in the fryer and they'll be crunchier.

      References

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