Crispy Zucchini Fritters

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: A Light, Healthy Snack

Overview

These crispy zucchini fritters are a delicious way to enjoy vegetables with a golden crunch on the outside and a tender interior. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they’re both nutritious and satisfying. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from zucchini, and boosted with protein from eggs and yogurt, these fritters offer a guilt-free option for health-conscious eaters. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be customized with different herbs and cheeses to suit your taste.

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 500g)
• ½ tsp salt (to draw out moisture)
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
• Olive oil for frying

Optional Topping:

• Greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

1. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater.
2. Place the grated zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Afterward, squeeze out as much water as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step ensures crispy fritters.

2. Make the Batter:

1. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs.
2. Add the flour, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, baking powder, black pepper, and the squeezed zucchini. Mix well until a thick batter forms.

3. Fry the Fritters:

1. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Scoop spoonfuls of batter into the pan and flatten slightly with a spatula to form fritters.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
4. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

4. Serve:

Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Garnish with extra herbs if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 3 Fritters)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Calcium: 10% of Daily Value

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Health Benefits of Crispy Zucchini Fritters

1. Rich in Antioxidants:
   Zucchini is loaded with vitamin C and carotenoids, which help protect against inflammation and oxidative stress.
2. Supports Digestion:
   The high fiber content in zucchini promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.
3. Good for Heart Health:
   Olive oil used for frying provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and lower bad cholesterol.
4. Boosts Bone Health:
   Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein, essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles.
5. Low in Calories and Carbs:
   Zucchini is naturally low in calories, making these fritters an excellent choice for those watching their weight or following low-carb diets.

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Tips for Success

• Get Crispy Fritters: Removing as much water as possible from the zucchini ensures your fritters turn out crispy.
• Add Protein: For a heartier dish, mix in crumbled feta or shredded chicken.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or oat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

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These crispy zucchini fritters are a versatile, healthy snack that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them with a yogurt dip or on their own, they’re a flavorful way to add more vegetables to your diet. Perfect for family meals, parties, or even meal prep, these fritters are sure to become a household favorite!