Crispy Zucchini and Herb Fritters
Golden brown and bursting with fresh herbs, these zucchini fritters are the perfect blend of crisp exterior and tender interior. Paired with a tangy yogurt herb dip, they make an ideal appetizer, snack, or light meal that celebrates seasonal produce with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These fritters are easy to make and packed with flavor. Fresh zucchini and herbs give them a bright, garden-fresh taste, while feta cheese adds a creamy, salty contrast. The yogurt dip brings a cooling tanginess that complements the warm fritters beautifully. They’re also versatile, naturally vegetarian, and can be customized in countless ways.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for draining zucchini)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill or cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the yogurt herb dip:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped mint or cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Using a clean towel or cheesecloth, squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini, red bell pepper, scallions, parsley, dill or cilantro, feta cheese, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a thick batter forms.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop the batter into the skillet using a spoon or small ice cream scoop. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- For the dip, mix all the ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
- Serve the warm fritters with the yogurt herb dip on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 10–12 fritters, serving 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Cheese alternatives: Use goat cheese or shredded mozzarella in place of feta.
- Add-ins: Include grated carrot, corn kernels, or chopped spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute flour with a gluten-free blend or chickpea flour.
- Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes to the batter.
- Oven-baked: Instead of frying, bake the fritters at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy. The yogurt dip can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
How do I keep the fritters from falling apart?
Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini and use the correct amount of flour and egg to bind the mixture.
Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, cook them fully, let them cool, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
What other dips pair well with these fritters?
Try tzatziki, spicy sriracha mayo, or a garlic aioli as alternative dips.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to fry immediately after mixing, but you can prepare the grated zucchini and chopped vegetables a few hours ahead and combine just before cooking.
Are these fritters suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re a great way to sneak vegetables into a child-friendly format.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but you can substitute dried ones in smaller amounts (about one-third of the fresh quantity).
What type of oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil.
How can I make them more crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. Also, drain the fritters on paper towels immediately after frying.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is tender and adds color and nutrients. Just wash the zucchini well before grating.
Can I serve them cold?
They’re best served warm, but they can be enjoyed at room temperature, especially for picnics or packed lunches.
Conclusion
Crispy Zucchini and Herb Fritters are a delightful, flavorful way to enjoy fresh vegetables. With a crisp outside, soft and savory interior, and a cooling yogurt dip on the side, they offer a satisfying balance of textures and tastes. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch, they are sure to impress with both simplicity and flavor.
PrintCrispy Zucchini and Herb Fritters
Golden brown and full of fresh herbs, these zucchini fritters are crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly paired with a tangy yogurt dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for draining zucchini)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill or cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Yogurt Herb Dip:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped mint or cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess water using a clean towel.
- In a large bowl, combine zucchini, bell pepper, scallions, herbs, feta, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until a thick batter forms.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Scoop batter into the pan using a spoon, flattening slightly.
- Fry fritters for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Mix all dip ingredients in a bowl and serve alongside warm fritters.
Notes
- Squeeze zucchini well to avoid soggy fritters.
- Use a mix of dill and mint for a more complex flavor.
- Fritters can be reheated in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 fritters with dip
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: zucchini fritters, herb fritters, vegetarian appetizer, Greek yogurt dip, summer fritters