Healthy Zucchini Fritters Side Dish Recipe

Introduction

These healthy zucchini fritters are a delicious and easy side dish that brings a fresh, light flavor to any meal. Made with simple ingredients and packed with herbs, they’re perfect for a quick snack or to accompany your favorite main course.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup oat flour (or almond flour for low-carb option)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds richness and crispness)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
• 1 tbsp olive oil or olive oil spray for pan-frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grate the zucchinis and then squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to prevent soggy fritters.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini with eggs, oat flour (or almond flour), Parmesan cheese if using, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, dried oregano or thyme, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix until a batter forms.
3. Step 3: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or spray with olive oil.
4. Step 4: Scoop about 1/4 cup of the batter for each fritter into the skillet, then flatten gently with the back of a spoon to shape them.
5. Step 5: Cook the fritters for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Step 6: Remove the cooked fritters from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispness, let the batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the flour to absorb moisture fully.
• Try swapping fresh dill for parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Use almond flour instead of oat flour for a low-carb, gluten-free version.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Serve with a dollop of extra Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep them crispy, or warm them gently in the oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain their crisp texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these zucchini fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. For best texture, cook them fresh just before serving.

How can I prevent the fritters from being soggy?

Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before mixing the batter, and avoid overcrowding the pan when frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Healthy Zucchini Fritters Side Dish Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 134 reviews

These Healthy Zucchini Fritters are a delicious and nutritious side dish featuring grated zucchini combined with eggs, oat flour, and flavorful herbs. Lightly pan-fried to golden perfection, they offer a crispy exterior with a tender, fluffy interior. Perfect for a low-carb or gluten-free diet when substituting almond flour, these fritters make a wholesome addition to any meal.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 fritters (serves 3-4) 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup oat flour (or almond flour for low-carb option)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds richness and crispness)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp olive oil or olive oil spray for pan-frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Then, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
2. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, oat flour (or almond flour), minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, sea salt, black pepper, dried oregano or thyme, and chopped fresh parsley or dill. Mix well until a uniform batter forms.
3. Heat the Skillet: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or lightly spray the pan with olive oil spray. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
4. Cook the Fritters: Scoop about 1/4 cup of the batter and drop it onto the skillet. Use the back of the spoon to gently flatten each scoop into a fritter shape. Cook for approximately 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until the fritters develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through.
5. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm as a side dish or snack.

Notes

• Ensure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to avoid watery fritters.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese and Greek yogurt or use plant-based alternatives.
• Almond flour can be used instead of oat flour for a lower carbohydrate option.
• Fritters can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 90°C) while cooking the remainder.
• These fritters pair well with a dollop of sour cream, tzatziki, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Keywords: zucchini fritters, healthy side dish, low carb, gluten free, vegetarian, oat flour fritters, pan-fried vegetables