There’s something undeniably satisfying about discovering a recipe that pleases everyone around the table, and zucchini fritters with herbed yogurt dip are one of those delightful finds. When I first made these fritters, I was skeptical about how they would be received. However, as soon as they hit the table, I knew I had a winner. The crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior of the fritters combined with the refreshing zing of the herbed yogurt dip made them an instant family favorite. It’s rare to see every single plate wiped clean, but these fritters had that effect. Even my picky eater couldn’t resist going back for seconds. They are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light main course.

Ingredients

The beauty of zucchini fritters lies in their simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients. For the fritters, you’ll need the following:

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil for frying

For the herbed yogurt dip:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Begin by preparing the zucchinis. After grating them, place them in a colander over a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the excess moisture to drain. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness in your fritters. After the time has elapsed, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be thick and hold together well. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour; if too dry, a small splash of water should help.

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of batter into it—it should sizzle immediately. Using a spoon or your hands, form small patties out of the zucchini mixture and gently place them into the hot oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry the fritters for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crisp. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

For the herbed yogurt dip, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, mint, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Serve the zucchini fritters warm, with the herbed yogurt dip on the side. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

These zucchini fritters are not only delicious but also relatively healthy. The recipe makes approximately 12 fritters, and the nutritional breakdown per serving (three fritters with dip) is as follows:

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Preparation Time

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight treat or a last-minute appetizer for guests. Here’s the breakdown of the time commitment:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes

How to Serve

These zucchini fritters can be served in various ways, making them a versatile addition to your meal plan. Here are some ideas:

• As an Appetizer: Serve them as a starter for a dinner party or a casual gathering. They pair well with a glass of chilled white wine.
• As a Side Dish: Complement a main course such as grilled chicken or fish with these fritters for a balanced meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them as a mid-afternoon snack or a light lunch.
• In a Sandwich: Place fritters in a sandwich with some lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of herbed yogurt dip.
• As Part of a Brunch Spread: Include them in a brunch menu alongside eggs and fresh fruit.

Additional Tips

To ensure your zucchini fritters turn out perfectly every time, here are some additional tips:

1. Drain Well: Squeeze out as much water from the zucchini as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
2. Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the fritters in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap out the parsley for basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
5. Freezing: Cooked fritters can be frozen and reheated in the oven for a quick snack.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions and answers regarding zucchini fritters with herbed yogurt dip:

1. Can I use a different type of squash? Yes, you can substitute zucchini with yellow squash or a mix of both for a colorful variation.
2. Is there a gluten-free option? Absolutely! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
3. What can I do with leftover fritters? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet before serving.
4. Can I make the dip in advance? Yes, the herbed yogurt dip can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
5. What’s the best way to reheat fritters? To keep them crispy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.