Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! I am super excited to share my Baked Zucchini Fritters recipe. You know those summer days when your garden (or your neighbor’s garden) is overflowing with zucchini? Well, that’s when this recipe truly shines. I remember the first time I decided to make these fritters; I was desperately trying to find a way to use up the mountain of zucchini my mom had given me. Little did I know, I was about to stumble upon a culinary gem that would forever be a staple in my home!
These fritters are delightfully crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor. They are perfect as a side dish, a snack, or even as a light lunch. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, so you can enjoy them without that post-fried guilt. Trust me, once you take a bite of these golden beauties, you’ll be twirling and dancing in your kitchen, just like I do!
What’s in Baked Zucchini Fritters?
Let’s dive into what makes these fritters so special. Each ingredient adds its own flair, turning simple zucchini into a flavor-packed delight.
Zucchini: The star of the show! Grated zucchini offers a delicate flavor and lots of moisture. I typically use medium-sized zucchini for a good balance of flavor and texture.
Eggs: These little wonders bind the fritters together, ensuring they don’t fall apart when you flip them. I always use large eggs for this recipe.
Breadcrumbs: They provide that lovely crunch we all adore! You can go with traditional breadcrumbs, or for a twist, try using panko for an even crispier texture.
Cheese: I like using feta for its tangy flavor, but you could also use shredded parmesan or mozzarella. Cheese adds a creamy element that makes every bite heavenly.
Green Onions: These add a touch of brightness and mild onion flavor that beautifully complements the zucchini.
Garlic: A little minced garlic never hurt anyone! It elevates the flavor profile of the fritters to a whole new level.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other delicious flavors.
Is Baked Zucchini Fritters Good for You?
Are you wondering if these fritters are as healthy as they are delicious? Well, let’s break it down!
Zucchini: This vegetable is low in calories and high in water content, making it fantastic for hydration and weight management. Plus, it’s rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants.
Eggs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, eggs provide a nutritious boost. Just be mindful if you’re watching your cholesterol—perhaps consider using egg whites or a flaxseed mixture instead.
Breadcrumbs: Opting for whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs can give you added fiber, making these fritters a bit more wholesome.
Cheese: While it does add extra calories and fat, cheese also contributes protein and calcium. Moderation is key!
So, all in all, these fritters can definitely be part of a healthy diet, especially when you enjoy them in moderation with a delicious dipping sauce or a nice side salad.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 8 fritters, perfect for sharing (or not!).
– 2 medium zucchini, grated and moisture squeezed out
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for crispy texture)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil spray (or a little for greasing)
How to Make Baked Zucchini Fritters?
Ready to whip up these delightful fritters? Here’s how:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows some moisture to draw out, which is crucial for avoiding soggy fritters.
3. After 10 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel and squeeze the excess moisture from the zucchini (trust me, this step is vital!).
4. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and then add the squeezed zucchini, breadcrumbs, feta, green onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well combined.
5. Scoop 1/4 cup of the mixture onto the baking sheet, forming patties. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of a spatula.
6. Lightly spray the tops of the fritters with olive oil for that golden crust.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden on both sides.
8. Serve them warm. Wipe the drool off your chin!
A Touch of Extra Flavor
Want to jazz things up? Here are a few tips:
– Serve these fritters with a yogurt dip or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast!
– For a flavor twist, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture.
– You can also swap in grated carrots or sweet potatoes for additional veggies. The world is your oyster!
I just can’t say enough wonderful things about these Baked Zucchini Fritters! Whether you’re trying to impress guests, or simply want to savor a satisfying snack, these little guys are sure to please. Give them a try, and feel free to share your experience – I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Happy cooking!