Name: Zucchini Fritters with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
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); 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

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If you are craving a fresh, crispy, and utterly satisfying dish, then this Zucchini Fritters with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These golden fritters come together quickly with simple ingredients that transform humble zucchini into a flavorful masterpiece bursting with fragrant herbs and the irresistible umami of Parmesan cheese. Whether you want a vibrant side dish, a light snack, or a starter to impress guests, this recipe delivers crunchy edges and tender insides that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds six separate layers of ingredients. At the top left is a pile of thin green shredded cucumber, next to it on the right is a small heap of finely chopped pale yellow garlic, and further right is a layer of bright green chopped scallions. Below these, on the bottom right, there is a mound of white flour sprinkled with black pepper, and to the left of it, a bright orange layer of shredded carrot topped with black pepper as well. The bowl and all ingredients are clearly visible with bright, natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering straightforward yet flavorful ingredients is the secret to these fritters’ magic. Each element plays an essential role, from the fresh zucchini providing moisture and texture to the Parmesan cheese adding depth and crispness. The fresh herbs and garlic create wonderful aromatic layers that elevate this simple dish into something truly special.

Zucchini (2 medium): Use fresh, firm zucchini and grate it finely for the best texture.
Eggs (2 large): They bind the mixture perfectly while keeping fritters tender and rich.
Oat flour (1/4 cup): Adds structure and slight nuttiness; almond flour works great for a low-carb alternative.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): A showstopper ingredient for cheesy richness and a golden crust.
Plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese (1/4 cup): Adds creamy moisture without weighing down the batter.
Garlic clove (1, minced): Infuses a subtle kick and warmth to the flavor profile.
Sea salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all flavors naturally—salt is always essential.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Adds a mild heat and complexity.
Dried oregano or thyme (1/2 tsp): These herbs bring aromatic earthiness and pair beautifully with zucchini.
Fresh parsley or dill (2 tbsp, chopped): Fresh herbs brighten the fritters with vibrant color and lively taste.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Ideal for pan-frying to a perfect golden finish without excess greasiness.

How to Make Zucchini Fritters with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by grating your zucchinis finely using the large holes of a box grater or a food processor if you prefer. Once grated, wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Removing water is crucial to achieve crisp fritters that hold their shape without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried zucchini with eggs, oat flour or your choice of flour, and the Parmesan cheese. Add the plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and dried herbs of your choice like oregano or thyme. Finally, fold in the fresh chopped parsley or dill. Stir everything gently until a cohesive batter forms, making sure the zucchini is well coated with the binding ingredients.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or use an olive oil spray for lighter frying. The oil should be hot enough so the fritters sizzle as they hit the pan, which creates that beautiful golden crust you want.

Step 4: Cook the Fritters

Using a ¼ cup measure, scoop the batter into the hot skillet and flatten each mound gently with the back of a spatula to form patties. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the fritters are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid moving them too soon to ensure they hold together well and develop a crispy exterior.

Step 5: Drain and Serve Warm

Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, but wait to garnish or add dipping sauces until just before serving.

How to Serve Zucchini Fritters with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe

A tall stack of golden-brown vegetable fritters sits on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The fritters have a crispy texture with visible pieces of green zucchini and orange carrot mixed throughout each layer. The stack is topped with a dollop of white sour cream sprinkled with black pepper and garnished with ringed slices of bright green spring onions. The layers look uneven and crunchy, showing the fresh vegetable bits clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tangy tzatziki pairs wonderfully with the crispy fritters, enhancing their fresh flavors. Sprinkle extra chopped herbs like parsley or dill on top to lift the presentation and add a burst of color and fragrance that makes the dish feel even more homemade and inviting.

Side Dishes

These fritters complement a wide variety of meals beautifully. Serve them alongside a bright salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes for a light lunch, or bring them out with grilled chicken or fish for a satisfying dinner. Their herbaceous, cheesy profile also makes them a delightful partner to roasted vegetables or a simple tomato sauce drizzled over the top.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your zucchini fritters to the next level by stacking them with layers of creamy avocado, smoked salmon, or a poached egg for a fancy brunch idea. You can also chop them up and toss into grain bowls or salads, adding texture and flavor in unexpected ways that keep every bite interesting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Zucchini Fritters with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their crispness, avoid stacking them directly; instead, layer them between sheets of parchment paper.

Freezing

These fritters freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Freeze uncooked fritters on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Cook them straight from frozen in a hot pan for a few extra minutes per side for a quick snack or side dish anytime you need.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover fritters on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps the fritters stay crispy instead of soggy, unlike microwaving, which can soften the texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful sharpness and helps create a crispy crust, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a mild mozzarella for a different flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have oat or almond flour?

All-purpose flour or even chickpea flour can work well as substitutes. Just be mindful that they may alter the texture slightly, with chickpea flour adding a nuttier taste and all-purpose flour making them more delicate.

Are these fritters suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! Using almond flour instead of oat or regular flour reduces the carb content significantly, making the fritters a great option for low-carb or keto-friendly meals.

How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart while cooking?

Removing excess moisture from the zucchini and adequately binding the batter with eggs and flour are key steps. Also, avoid flipping the fritters too soon—wait until the edges are golden and firm enough to hold together.

Can I make these fritters vegan?

You can adapt the recipe by replacing eggs with a flax or chia seed egg substitute and using vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

Every time I make this Zucchini Fritters with Herbs and Parmesan Recipe, it reminds me why simple ingredients bring the most joy in the kitchen. These fritters are crisp, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, perfect for any occasion or craving. I genuinely encourage you to try making them yourself—they are sure to become a beloved staple in your home as they have in mine!