Zucchini patties are a delightful and healthy dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. These patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, bursting with flavors from fresh zucchini, onions, and a mix of cheeses. They are also incredibly easy to make and perfect for using up an abundance of zucchini from your garden. This recipe is not only tasty but also versatile and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Patties:
- 2 cups grated zucchini
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Preparing the Zucchini Patties:
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze the zucchini to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, beaten eggs, chopped onion, all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded Mozzarella cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Season: Add salt to taste. You can also add a pinch of black pepper or other herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
- Form Patties: Take a small amount of the mixture and shape it into a patty. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serving:
- Serve Hot: Serve the zucchini patties hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They pair well with sour cream, tzatziki, or a simple garlic aioli.
Cook’s Notes
- Zucchini Preparation: It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the patties from becoming too soggy.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Feta or cheddar can be great substitutes for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding herbs and spices such as garlic powder, dill, or parsley.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
- Low-Carb: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for a low-carb version.
- Vegan: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute and use vegan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make these patties ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, simply form the patties and fry them.
- Can I freeze zucchini patties?
- Yes, these patties freeze well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or skillet.
- How can I prevent the patties from falling apart?
- Ensure you remove excess moisture from the zucchini and use enough binding agents like eggs and flour.
- What can I serve with zucchini patties?
- They are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes such as salads, grilled meats, or as a vegetarian main course.
- Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Zucchini patties are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or a light main course, these patties are sure to please. With their crispy exterior and flavorful, tender interior, they are a great way to use up zucchini and enjoy a healthy, tasty meal. Give this recipe a try and see how easy it is to make these delightful zucchini patties. Happy cooking!