Get ready to transform ordinary vegetables into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Zucchini Carrot Fritters are not just another side dish – they're a crispy, golden sensation that sneaks extra nutrients onto your plate while delivering an explosion of flavor. Perfect for picky eaters, health-conscious foodies, and anyone who loves a quick, delectable meal that looks like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing the zucchinis and carrots thoroughly. Using a box grater, grate both vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
- After grating, place the zucchini and carrot shreds in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy fritters. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- Return the drained vegetable shreds to the mixing bowl and add flour, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until a cohesive batter forms.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add enough oil to create a thin layer covering the bottom of the pan, approximately 2-3 tablespoons.
- Using a large spoon or 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the vegetable mixture and carefully drop into the hot oil. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of the spoon to create an even thickness.
- Cook each fritter for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side.
- Remove fritters from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat the cooking process with remaining batter.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always squeeze out excess liquid from grated vegetables using a clean kitchen towel. This is the secret to achieving that irresistible crispy exterior.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is at medium heat – too hot, and the outside burns while the inside stays raw; too cool, and your fritters become greasy.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook fritters in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even browning.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe is delicious as-is, try adding herbs like dill, chives, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor complexity.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These fritters can be kept warm in a low oven (200°F) for 15-20 minutes or quickly reheated in a skillet if you're preparing in advance.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a tangy yogurt dip, tzatziki, or a light herb sauce to elevate the dish even further.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
