These crispy zucchini patties are a fun and tasty snack! They are made with fresh zucchini, breadcrumbs, and cheese for extra flavor. They’re golden on the outside and soft inside!
Making these is so easy, even your kids can help! I love serving them with a yummy dip, and they disappear in no time. Seriously, you’ll want to keep some on hand for after-school munchies! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star of this recipe. If you’re out of zucchini or want a change, you can use finely grated carrots or yellow squash instead. Both will add sweetness and color to your patties!
Parmesan cheese: I love using Parmesan for its rich flavor, but if you want a different taste or need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute. It’s a fun twist!
Breadcrumbs: I usually use plain breadcrumbs, but panko gives a great crunch! If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the amount so the mixture isn’t too dry.
Egg: This helps bind the mixture. If you’re avoiding eggs, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce as a replacement. Both work great!
How Can I Make Crispy Zucchini Patties Perfectly?
The key to that crispy texture lies in removing as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. After grating, here’s what to do:
- Sprinkle salt over the grated zucchini and let it sit. This draws out the moisture, which is crucial for crispy patties.
- Once it sits, squeeze the zucchini tightly in a towel or paper towels. The drier it is, the crunchier your patties will be!
- Form the patties carefully. Too thick, and they may not cook through. Aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter for the perfect bite size.
- Cook in oil that’s hot enough to sizzle when you drop in the patties. This helps them form a lovely crust quickly!
Following these steps will ensure your crispy zucchini patties turn out delicious every time! Enjoy them as a snack or party appetizer! 🌟
Crispy Zucchini Patties Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 4 cups grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating if desired)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Frying:
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 35 minutes to whip up these delicious snacks. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a quick appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a large bowl. Once grated, sprinkle the zucchini with the teaspoon of salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture, which is key for crispy patties!
2. Squeeze Out Excess Water:
After the zucchinis sit, grab a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Squeeze the zucchini tightly to remove as much liquid as possible. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your patties will be!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini with flour, Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped onion (if you’re using it), breadcrumbs, black pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet on medium heat and pour a thin layer of oil into it. You want enough oil that it can cover the bottom of the pan, but not so much that it’s swimming!
5. Form and Fry the Patties:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture and shape it into small patties, roughly 2-3 inches in diameter. If you’d like extra crunch, lightly coat each patties’ surface with additional breadcrumbs before frying.
6. Cook Until Golden:
Carefully place the patties in the hot oil and fry them in batches, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and crispy!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the patties onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy.
8. Serve with Dipping Sauce:
Enjoy your crispy zucchini patties warm, served with your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream, tzatziki, or marinara. They’re sure to be a hit!
Now you’re all set to enjoy this tasty snack! Happy cooking! 🎉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! If you want to mix it up, you can substitute zucchini with grated carrots or yellow squash. Both will give a different but delicious flavor and texture to the patties!
Can I Make These Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape and fry the patties right before serving for the best texture. They can also be frozen; just freeze them before frying and cook from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover patties in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or skillet to restore their crispiness instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy.
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Patties?
These patties pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces! Try serving them with sour cream, tzatziki, or marinara sauce. They also make a great addition to salads or as part of a veggie platter.
