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For Serving (optional):
- Greek yogurt or sour cream (for dipping)
- Lemon wedges (for added freshness)
- Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)
How to Make Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Dill and Mozzarella
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Grate the Zucchini: Use a box grater or food processor to grate the zucchinis. Place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. Zucchini contains a lot of water, and removing it helps the fritters hold together and become crispy when fried.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped dill, flour, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it to the mixture now. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan so the fritters can fry evenly. If you prefer a slightly lighter version, you can use less oil and pan-fry them, but for the crispiest result, deep-frying or shallow frying works best.
Step 3: Form the Fritters
Once the oil is hot, use a tablespoon or your hands to scoop out portions of the zucchini mixture. Form them into small, flat patties, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Be careful not to overpack the fritters, as you want them to remain light and crispy.
Step 4: Fry the Fritters
Carefully place the fritters into the hot oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook each fritter for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden-brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to flip them carefully, making sure they don’t fall apart.
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining fritters, adding more oil to the pan as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the crispy zucchini fritters hot, garnished with a few sprigs of fresh dill. You can also serve them with a side of Greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
What to Serve with Zucchini Fritters
These fritters are incredibly versatile and can be paired with many sides or enjoyed on their own. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Salads: A fresh cucumber salad, mixed greens, or a tomato and feta salad pairs wonderfully with the crispy fritters, adding a fresh contrast to their richness.
- Grilled Meats: Serve these fritters alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a balanced meal. The crispy fritters will complement the smoky flavors of the grilled meats.
- Dip and Appetizer Platter: Include these fritters as part of a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer platter, alongside hummus, tzatziki, olives, and pita bread.
- Soup: Serve the fritters as a side to a warm bowl of soup, like tomato soup, lentil soup, or a spicy butternut squash soup.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Fritters
- Drain the Zucchini Well: Zucchini has a high water content, so it’s crucial to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to ensure the fritters crisp up properly. You can even let the grated zucchini sit in a colander for 10-15 minutes to release extra moisture before squeezing it out.
- Make the Batter Thick: If the mixture feels too wet or runny, you can add a bit more flour to thicken it up. A thicker batter ensures the fritters hold their shape while frying.
- Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before adding the fritters. Too hot, and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through; too cold, and they’ll absorb too much oil. Medium heat is perfect for even cooking and crispiness.
- Try Variations: Feel free to mix in other ingredients to make these fritters your own. Some options include shredded carrots, onion, or even a handful of spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, and the fritters will fry up even crispier.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Dill and Mozzarella are a perfect way to enjoy the abundant, fresh zucchini of summer or add a flavorful twist to any season. The combination of fresh zucchini, gooey mozzarella, and aromatic dill makes for a dish that is both comforting and refreshing. Whether you serve them as a snack, side dish, or light main course, these fritters will quickly become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a crunchy, savory treat that’s sure to please every palate. Enjoy!
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