Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Savory Farro & Tangy Goat Cheese: Your Ultimate Summer Recipe
Did your garden bless you with an abundant harvest of zucchini this year? Or perhaps you simply adore this versatile summer squash? This crispy zucchini fritters recipe is the absolute perfect, most flavorful way to transform your summer produce into a delightful meal. With a satisfyingly crispy exterior and a wonderfully light, tender interior, these fritters are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with a symphony of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. They make an ideal lunch, a light dinner, or a fantastic side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
These deliciously crisp zucchini fritters are truly a revelation, offering a vibrant and healthy solution for utilizing your bounty of summer zucchini. Originally inspired by a brilliant recipe featured in Cooking Light magazine around 2013, this rendition elevates the classic fritter by incorporating unique ingredients and expert techniques. It’s a healthy, filling option that stands out as a superb summer alternative to heavier dishes like traditional veggie burgers or even gourmet turkey burgers. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor and satisfying texture!
Why You Will Love These Crispy Zucchini Fritters
- The Texture is Absolutely Ideal: Achieving that perfect balance of a tender interior and a crisp, golden-brown exterior is key to an excellent fritter. Our secret lies in thoroughly salting and squeezing the grated zucchini to release its excess moisture before cooking. This crucial step prevents soggy fritters and guarantees a delightful crunch with every bite.
- They Boast a Wonderful Depth of Flavor and Texture: Unlike many other zucchini fritter recipes that can sometimes fall flat, this recipe is elevated by the inclusion of farro. Farro is a robust, chewy, and nutty ancient grain that not only adds a hearty, savory, and incredibly filling quality to the dish but also introduces an interesting textural contrast that you’ll simply adore.
- The Recipe is Exceptionally Balanced: This dish is a masterclass in flavor harmony. It combines the mild, savory notes of zucchini and farro with the bright, tangy kick of creamy goat cheese and the intense, concentrated sweetness of slow-roasted tomatoes. Each component plays its part, creating a perfectly balanced meal that satisfies all your cravings.
Table of Contents
- Why You Will Love These Crispy Zucchini Fritters
- Essential Ingredients for Zucchini Fritters
- Delicious Variations to Try
- Professional Tips for Making Perfect Zucchini Fritters
- How to Make Zucchini Fritters: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Chef Lindsey’s Expert Recipe Tip
- Zucchini Fritter Recipe FAQs
- Recommended Dishes to Explore
- Full Zucchini Fritters Recipe Card
- Before You Go
Essential Ingredients for Zucchini Fritters
Crafting these delectable zucchini fritters requires a careful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component contributes to the unique flavor and texture profile, making every bite a delight. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Zucchini: You’ll need approximately 1 pound (about 3.5 cups) of freshly shredded zucchini for this recipe. For convenience, you can easily shred it using a standard cheese grater or a food processor equipped with a grating attachment. Don’t let any extra zucchini go to waste; it’s perfect for other delightful dishes like my Baked Zucchini and Ricotta Casserole or a hearty, low-carb Zucchini Lasagna!
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for bringing out the natural flavors of the zucchini and balancing the entire dish. Don’t be shy with the salt, especially when drawing out moisture from the zucchini.
- Farro: This ancient grain is a game-changer in this recipe! You’ll need 2 cups of cooked farro, which typically translates to about 1 cup of dry farro. Cook it according to the package directions, usually with a 2:1 water-to-farro ratio. Its chewy texture and nutty flavor add incredible depth and make the fritters more substantial.
- Breadcrumbs: For the best flavor and binding, I highly recommend using seasoned Italian breadcrumbs. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, simply mix in a teaspoon or two of Italian seasoning to achieve a similar aromatic profile.
- Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions (about 1-2 medium onions, yielding 3 tablespoons) contribute a mild, savory, and slightly sweet onion flavor that complements the other ingredients without being overpowering. They also add a subtle freshness.
- Flour: I prefer using whole wheat flour in this recipe for added fiber and a slightly nuttier taste, enhancing the overall health benefits. However, all-purpose flour works perfectly as a substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme is key here, adding an earthy, fragrant note that pairs beautifully with zucchini and tomatoes. The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme; if opting for dried thyme, remember to use half the amount (about ½ tablespoon), as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Eggs: Three large, lightly beaten eggs serve as the primary binding agent, holding all the ingredients together and giving the fritters their tender structure.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides an essential aromatic base, infusing the fritters with its pungent, savory goodness.
- Olive Oil: Used both in the fritter mixture and for pan-frying, a good quality extra virgin olive oil contributes to the flavor and helps achieve that desired crispy crust.
- Goat Cheese: This ingredient is a star! Crumbled goat cheese introduces a creamy texture and a wonderfully tangy, savory flavor that brightens the fritters. If goat cheese isn’t your preference, crumbled feta cheese is an excellent alternative. These fritters are also fantastic served with a dollop of cool Greek yogurt, a refreshing tzatziki sauce, or even your favorite creamy dipping sauce like ranch dressing.
- Tomatoes: For the delightful slow-roasted component, you’ll need 1 ½ pounds of sweet grape tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes are a perfectly suitable and equally delicious alternative. Once you master slow-roasting them, you’ll be halfway to making a phenomenal Tomato Goat Cheese Galette!
Refer to the comprehensive recipe card below for exact quantities and detailed ingredient information.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to customize your zucchini fritters and add new dimensions of flavor and convenience.
- Air Fryer Method for a Lighter Touch: To avoid heating up your kitchen on a hot summer day, or if you simply prefer a slightly healthier cooking method, your air fryer is a perfect tool! Cook your fritters in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 10 minutes, flipping halfway, or until they reach your desired level of crispness and are beautifully golden brown. This method often results in less oil and an equally satisfying crunch.
- Add a Cheesy Boost with Parmesan or Cheddar: For an extra layer of savory richness and a delightful saltiness, consider incorporating a bit of grated Parmesan cheese or even sharp cheddar cheese into your zucchini mixture. Start with about ¼ cup and adjust to your taste. If you add cheese, remember to taste the mixture before cooking and adjust other seasonings or your accompanying dip accordingly to maintain a balanced flavor profile.
- Infuse with Fresh Herbs for Vibrant Flavor: Herbs can elevate any dish! You can gently fold chopped fresh herbs like bright parsley, aromatic basil, or refreshing fresh dill directly into the fritter mixture before cooking for an internal burst of flavor. Alternatively, sprinkle them generously over your finished zucchini pancakes just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh aroma. Another excellent idea is to toss your grape or cherry tomatoes with a spoonful of vibrant pesto or a hint of fresh lemon juice before slow-roasting to enhance their natural sweetness and tang.
Professional Tips for Making Perfect Zucchini Fritters
Achieving consistently amazing zucchini fritters is all about a few key techniques. These professional tips will ensure your fritters are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every single time, turning you into a fritter master!
- Squeeze Your Shredded Zucchini Exceptionally Well: This is arguably the most critical step for crispy fritters! Zucchini contains a high amount of water, and if not removed, this moisture will steam your fritters instead of allowing them to crisp up. Use a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel to wring out as much liquid as humanly possible. Don’t be gentle; squeeze until you think no more water can come out – then squeeze a little more! This ensures your fritters develop that desirable golden-brown, crunchy crust.
- Consider Using a Food Processor for Efficiency: If you’re looking to save precious minutes in the kitchen, or if a traditional box grater isn’t your preferred tool, a food processor can be your best friend. Utilize a grating attachment (often called a grating disc) in your food processor to quickly and uniformly shred the zucchini. This method is incredibly fast and produces consistent shreds, which contributes to an even cooking texture.
- Fry the Fritters in Small Batches to Prevent Crowding: Patience is a virtue, especially when frying! Resist the temptation to overcrowd the pan with too many fritters at once. Doing so drastically lowers the oil temperature and releases excess moisture, which inhibits the development of that amazingly crispy exterior we’re aiming for. Instead, work in smaller batches, giving each fritter ample space to cook evenly and achieve that beautiful, golden-brown perfection. This ensures maximum crispiness and avoids any soggy results.
How to Make Zucchini Fritters: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions to create the most delicious and perfectly textured zucchini fritters. Each step is designed to guide you to culinary success! For precise measurements and further details, please consult the complete recipe card found further down the page.
Slow-Roast the Tomatoes (Optional, but Highly Recommended!)
Step 1: Begin by preparing your sweet slow-roasted tomatoes. Preheat your oven to a low 250°F (120°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine all the ingredients designated for the tomatoes: grape tomatoes, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a pinch of kosher salt, and a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Toss them until they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Carefully arrange the seasoned tomatoes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for a generous 3 hours, or until they are incredibly tender, slightly shriveled, and their sweet juices have concentrated into a luscious burst of flavor. Remember to stir them gently every hour or so to ensure even roasting.
Time-Saving Tip: If you’re short on time but still want flavorful tomatoes, you can roast them at a higher temperature. Bake them for about 20 minutes in a 400°F (200°C) oven. They will be almost as good and still wonderfully sweet!
Prepare, Shape, and Cook the Fritters
Step 3: This is the secret to crispy fritters! Line a medium bowl with cheesecloth. Place the shredded zucchini on top of the cheesecloth and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Let it stand for 10 minutes; this allows the salt to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, gather up the edges of the cheesecloth and squeeze the zucchini firmly over a sink or colander until you’ve extracted as much liquid as possible. This critical step prevents soggy fritters.
No Cheesecloth? No Problem! If you don’t have cheesecloth on hand, a clean, thin kitchen towel or even several layers of sturdy paper towels can work just as effectively. The key is to truly wring out every last drop of moisture from the zucchini to ensure your fritters achieve that ultimate crisp texture.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini with the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, cooked farro, breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned), finely chopped green onions, whole wheat flour, fresh thyme, lightly beaten large eggs, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the breadcrumbs to absorb some moisture. Then, shape the mixture into 12 equal patties, roughly the size of a small hamburger patty.
Non-Stick Trick: To prevent the fritter mixture from sticking to your hands while forming the patties, simply wet your hands with a little water before you start shaping. This creates a barrier that makes the process much smoother and cleaner.
Step 5: Heat a large skillet (a cast iron skillet works beautifully for even heat distribution and a great crust) over medium heat until it’s nice and hot. Add several teaspoons of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place 4 of the patties into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful, deep golden brown and are crispy. Repeat this process with the remaining patties, adding more oil as needed between batches.
Step 6: Once all your glorious zucchini fritters are cooked to perfection, transfer them to a serving platter. Serve them warm, generously topped with your sweet slow-roasted tomatoes and a scattering of tangy goat cheese. The combination is simply divine!
Chef Lindsey’s Expert Recipe Tip
Season Generously! Zucchini, while wonderfully versatile, has a naturally mild flavor profile. To ensure your fritters are bursting with deliciousness, it’s absolutely crucial to season your fritter mixture generously with plenty of salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to add a little more than you might think necessary. After they are cooked, take a small bite and taste again for seasoning. If needed, add an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a twist of fresh black pepper just before serving – this small touch can make a huge difference in enhancing all the flavors!
Zucchini Fritter Recipe FAQs
To maintain their freshness and flavor, store any leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. First, allow the fritters to cool completely to room temperature. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer for a few hours until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer the fritters to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for approximately 3 months. To reheat, you can use an oven or air fryer to help restore some crispiness.
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star of this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other summer squashes. Yellow summer squash or crookneck squash are excellent alternatives and can be used in place of the zucchini, or even in combination with it for a colorful mix. Just ensure you follow the same critical step of thoroughly squeezing out excess moisture from any squash you choose to use.
You can indeed prepare the zucchini fritter mixture ahead of time. Mix all the ingredients (excluding the oil for frying) and store the combined mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before you plan to cook them. However, for the very best texture and to ensure they maintain their desired crispy exterior, it is highly recommended to cook the fritters just before serving. Freshly cooked fritters are always the crispiest and most delicious!
Yes, absolutely! To easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat flour with a suitable gluten-free alternative. Chickpea flour or almond flour are both excellent choices that work well in fritter recipes, providing good binding and a pleasant texture. Ensure your breadcrumbs are also gluten-free if you are strictly avoiding gluten.
Beyond the delightful slow-roasted tomatoes and goat cheese, these fritters are incredibly versatile. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve them alongside grilled chicken or fish. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces like creamy Greek yogurt, a zesty lemon-dill sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo to complement their savory flavor.
More Delicious Recipes to Explore
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Ultimate Lasagna Recipe
Easy Side Dish Recipes
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Vegetable Lasagna
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Zucchini Fritters with Farro and Slow-Roasted Tomatoes
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Ingredients
For the Tomatoes:
- 1 ½ pounds grape tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Fritters:
- 3 ½ cups zucchini shredded
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
- 2 cups cooked farro
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs I used Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons green onions finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons whole-wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- 3 large eggs lightly beaten
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- goat cheese for serving
Instructions
Prepare the tomatoes:
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If making the slow-roasted tomatoes, preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients for the tomatoes: grape tomatoes, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to coat.
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Arrange tomatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 3 hours, or until they are very tender and slightly shriveled. Stir them occasionally to ensure even roasting.
Prepare the fritters:
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Line a medium bowl with cheesecloth. Combine shredded zucchini with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt on top of the cloth. Let stand for 10 minutes to allow moisture to be drawn out. Gather up the edges of the cheesecloth and squeeze the zucchini firmly until it releases as much liquid as possible.
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In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, cooked farro, fresh breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned), finely chopped green onions, whole-wheat flour, fresh thyme, lightly beaten large eggs, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Mix thoroughly. Let stand for 5 minutes. Shape the mixture into 12 equal patties.
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Heat a large skillet (cast iron recommended) over medium heat until hot. Add several teaspoons of olive oil, then carefully add 4 of the patties, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining patties, adding more oil as needed.
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Serve the crispy fritters warm, garnished with the slow-roasted tomatoes and crumbled goat cheese. Enjoy!
Notes
Technique – Wetting your hands before forming the patties can help keep them from sticking to your hands.
Variations – Air Fryer: Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until crisp.
Storage – Store leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, let cool completely, lay in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze for a few hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Before You Go: More Culinary Inspirations from Chef Lindsey
I genuinely hope you enjoyed preparing and savoring this professional chef-tested recipe for crispy zucchini fritters. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of summer! Don’t stop your culinary adventure here; be sure to explore our other delicious, chef-developed summer dinner recipes for more seasonal delights. And if you have a sweet tooth and still have zucchini to use up, get baking with this incredibly moist and flavorful Chocolate Zucchini Cake recipe!