Are you overflowing with summer squash and zucchini from your garden or the farmer's market? Don't let those gorgeous veggies go to waste! This recipe for light and crispy summer squash and zucchini fritters is the perfect way to enjoy the bounty of the season. These fritters are quick to make, incredibly healthy, and absolutely delicious – a true celebration of fresh, homemade cooking. They're the perfect easy recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer for a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 2 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley, chives) for garnish
- Optional: Sour cream or yogurt for dipping
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Grate the zucchini and yellow squash using a box grater. Place the grated vegetables in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to drain excess moisture. This step is crucial for crispy fritters! After 10-15 minutes, gently squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini and squash with the chopped onion, flour, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cook the Fritters
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the fritter batter into the skillet, leaving some space between each one. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve immediately. These delicious dishes are fantastic served warm with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for dipping.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fritters:
- Don't skip the salting and draining step: This is vital for preventing soggy fritters. The salt draws out excess moisture.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the fritters enough space to brown evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or cheese to suit your preference.
- Experiment with different additions: Try adding chopped bell peppers, corn, or sun-dried tomatoes to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Fritters: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Herby Fritters: Boost the fresh herb flavor by adding finely chopped fresh parsley, chives, dill, or a combination of your favorites.
- Cheesy Fritters: Increase the Parmesan cheese to 1/2 cup or add other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on size and additions) Fat: Around 8-10g Protein: Around 5g Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This recipe is a wonderful example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking with these delightful summer squash and zucchini fritters! They're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to showcase the best of summer’s harvest.