Zucchini & Feta Fritters
These Zucchini & Feta Fritters are a delightful way to enjoy fresh zucchini, offering a crispy exterior and a tender, savory interior. Packed with tangy feta and fresh herbs, they make for a perfect high-protein snack, side dish, or light meal.
For 4 servings
Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial for crispy fritters.
After 10-15 minutes, firmly squeeze the zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible. You can use your hands, a clean kitchen towel, or paper towels. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters will be.
In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, large egg, all-purpose flour, baking powder, chopped fresh dill (or parsley), minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until just combined; do not overmix.
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, drop spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the zucchini mixture into the pan, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form small patties.
Cook the fritters for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Taste one fritter and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, either on their own or with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, perhaps seasoned with a little lemon juice or extra fresh herbs.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Squeeze, Squeeze, Squeeze!** The single most important step for crispy fritters is to remove as much moisture from the grated zucchini as possible. Don't be shy!
- 2**Don't Overcrowd:** Cook the fritters in batches to ensure they brown properly and maintain a consistent temperature in the pan. Overcrowding can steam them instead of frying.
- 3**Adjust Seasoning:** Feta is salty, so add additional salt to the mixture only after tasting. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if desired.
- 4**Serve Warm:** These fritters are best enjoyed fresh and warm, when their texture is at its peak crispiness.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like chopped mint, chives, or oregano for a different aromatic profile.
Cheese AlternativeCheese Alternative
Replace feta with grated Parmesan, crumbled goat cheese, or even halloumi for a distinct flavor and texture.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Zucchini is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
High in Protein
With eggs and feta cheese, these fritters offer a significant protein boost, essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function.
Vitamin and Mineral Rich
Zucchini provides Vitamin C and K, while feta contributes calcium. The herbs add antioxidants, making this dish nutrient-dense.
Frequently asked questions
While best served fresh, you can prepare the zucchini mixture up to a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook just before serving for optimal crispiness. Cooked fritters can be reheated in a dry skillet or oven.
