These crispy zucchini patties are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! Made with fresh zucchini, breadcrumbs, and a hint of cheese, they are golden and crunchy on the outside.
They’re perfect for a quick meal or a fun snack. I love making a big batch and freezing some for later—because sometimes you just need a tasty treat in a hurry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis work best for those crispy patties. If zucchini is unavailable, try using yellow squash. Both have similar moisture content and flavor.
Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy!
Breadcrumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs; however, you can use panko for an extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a good alternative in case you’re avoiding gluten.
Egg: If you need a vegan substitute, mashed flaxseed or a chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) works well as a binding agent.
How Can You Ensure the Patties Are Crispy?
Making crispy zucchini patties is all about managing moisture. Here’s how to perfect this step:
- After grating, sprinkle the zucchini with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This extracts excess moisture.
- Don’t skip the squeezing! Use a clean towel or cheesecloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Use enough oil when frying. You want the patties to fry, not steam. Make sure the oil is hot before adding patties.
Following these steps will help you achieve that golden, crispy exterior every time! Enjoy cooking!
Crispy Zucchini Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy meal option. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly. Then, grate them using a box grater or a food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for approximately 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture.
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After the zucchini has sat, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Removing this moisture is crucial for ensuring your patties are crispy!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan, the egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed into a cohesive mixture.
4. Form the Patties:
With your hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. For an extra crunchy finish, take some additional breadcrumbs and lightly coat the outside of each patty.
5. Fry the Patties:
In a large skillet, heat about 3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of the mixture—it should sizzle!), carefully place the patties in the skillet. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This helps keep them nice and crispy!
7. Enjoy:
Serve your crispy zucchini patties warm with a side of sour cream, tzatziki, or any other dipping sauce you love. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal!
Enjoy your crispy zucchini patties as a delightful addition to any meal!
FAQ for Crispy Zucchini Patties Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini as frozen zucchini can be too mushy when thawed. If you have to use frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw it completely, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing.
How Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free zucchini patties, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour. Make sure the breadcrumbs you use are also gluten-free!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Patties?
Store any leftover zucchini patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or a skillet over low heat to regain their crispiness.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray or brush them lightly with oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
