Zucchini Patties are a delicious and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these patties are perfect for a light meal or a tasty appetizer. With a blend of zucchini, cheese, and a hint of onion, they are sure to be a hit with everyone.
INGREDIENTS
- Zucchini: 2 cups grated zucchini. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture for the best texture.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten, to help bind the ingredients together.
- All-purpose Flour: ½ cup, which helps to hold the patties together.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated, adding a rich and savory flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup shredded, providing a gooey and melty texture.
- Onion: ¼ cup chopped, for a subtle hint of sweetness and crunch.
- Salt: To taste, enhancing all the flavors in the patties.
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons, for frying the patties until golden brown and crispy.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Place grated zucchini in a medium bowl. If the zucchini is too watery, squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Step 2:
- Add the beaten eggs, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped onion, and salt to the bowl with the zucchini. Stir until well combined to create the zucchini mixture.
- Step 3:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Step 4:
- Scoop tablespoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, carefully flattening each scoop into a patty shape. Fry the patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Step 5:
- Cook the patties for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them halfway through the cooking time.
- Step 6:
- Once cooked, transfer the zucchini patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Step 7:
- Serve the zucchini patties warm, as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Zucchini Patties immediately while they are hot and crispy for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair these patties with a dipping sauce like sour cream, tzatziki, or marinara for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a complete meal, serve the patties alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish to grilled meats.
- If you have leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again.
Helpful Notes
- You can add grated carrots or bell peppers to the mixture for added color and nutrition.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or feta for a unique twist on the recipe.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests adding a pinch of nutmeg to the zucchini mixture for an unexpected depth of flavor.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis recommends serving these patties with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
- Chef Ina Garten advises using a non-stick skillet to make flipping the patties easier and to ensure they don't stick.