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Crispy Zucchini Parmesan Fritters with Easy 5-Step Lemon Herb Sauce

crispy zucchini parmesan fritters - featured image

These crispy zucchini Parmesan fritters are a quick, easy, and delicious snack or side dish featuring a golden crust and tender interior, paired perfectly with a bright, zesty lemon herb sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 14 oz or 400g), grated and squeezed dry
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (about 1.4 oz or 40g), or almond flour for gluten-free option
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil (for frying)
  • For the lemon herb sauce:
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt (about 4 oz or 120g)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Grate and drain the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist to squeeze out as much moisture as possible (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, Parmesan cheese, flour, minced garlic, chopped parsley and chives, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the batter holds together but is not too wet. Add more flour 1 tbsp at a time if needed (about 5 minutes).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill and parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve (about 5 minutes).
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter and gently shape into rounds. Fry fritters 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, adjusting heat as needed (about 15 minutes).
  5. Transfer fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with lemon herb sauce on the side or drizzled over. Enjoy immediately for best crispiness (about 2 minutes).

Notes

Squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to avoid soggy fritters. Use medium heat to prevent burning and greasiness. Do not overcrowd the pan when frying. Keep cooked fritters warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven if frying in batches. The lemon herb sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated to enhance flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, Parmesan fritters, lemon herb sauce, crispy fritters, easy appetizer, vegetarian, quick snack