Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

This zucchini fritters with garlic herb yogurt sauce recipe is a wonderful explosion of flavors. It combines the delicate taste of zucchini with the earthiness of sweet potato and the tangy creaminess of the yogurt sauce. It's perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for a dinner party. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies into your diet.

Photos of Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in home kitchens. However, you might need to pick up some fresh mint and parsley from the supermarket if you don't have any at home. Also, this recipe uses cornmeal and cornstarch, which are staple ingredients in many gluten-free kitchens, but may not be readily available in every pantry. They are easily found in most supermarkets in the baking or gluten-free aisle.

Ingredients for Zucchini Fritters and Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

Greek or regular yogurt: This is the base for the creamy, tangy sauce that complements the fritters.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal flavor to both the fritters and the sauce.

Mint: Provides a refreshing flavor to the sauce.

Zucchini: The star of the fritters, zucchini brings moisture and a slight sweetness.

Sweet potato: Adds a touch of earthiness and helps give the fritters structure.

Onion: Provides a savory flavor to the fritters.

Eggs: Bind all the ingredients together.

Cornmeal: Helps give the fritters a nice texture and crispness.

Cornstarch: Works with the cornmeal to give the fritters structure and crispness.

Olive oil: Used for frying the fritters, it adds a nice flavor.

One reader, Gennie Berger says:

These zucchini fritters with garlic herb yogurt sauce are a game-changer! The fritters were crispy and flavorful, and the yogurt sauce added a refreshing kick. I loved the combination of zucchini and sweet potato - it's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and healthy dish!

Gennie Berger

Key Techniques for Perfect Zucchini Fritters With Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

How to make the garlic herb yogurt sauce: Whisk together yogurt, parsley, mint, lemon, olive oil, honey, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

How to prepare the zucchini and sweet potato: Shred the zucchini, sweet potato, and onion, then place them in a large strainer. Sprinkle with salt and press down to drain excess water. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl lined with paper towels and press to remove more liquid. Let the vegetables sit for 45 minutes, then press again to remove additional moisture.

How to make the fritter batter: Whisk eggs, garlic, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Fold in the drained vegetables, then add cornmeal and cornstarch until combined.

How to cook the fritters: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Scoop around 2 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture onto the hot skillet, flattening with a spatula. Cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate until finished.

How to serve: Serve the warm fritters with the prepared garlic herb yogurt sauce.

How To Make Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

These zucchini fritters can definitely top our list of healthy vegetable snacks. The garlic herb yogurt sauce is definitely a win.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 6 minutes

Total: 1 hour 6 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce:

½cupGreek or regular yogurt,plain
2tspparsley,chopped
1tbspmint,fresh chopped
2tbsplemon,juiced fresh
1tbspolive oil
1tsphoney
1tspgarlic,heaping minced
salt and ground black pepper,fresh, to taste

For Fritters:

2cupszucchini,shredded, 2 small or large zucchini
1cupsweet potato,shredded,1 small, peeled
⅓cuponion,finely chopped
1½tspsalt
2large eggs
1tspgarlic,heaping minced
2tbspparsley,chopped
2tbspmint,fresh chopped
½tspblack pepper,freshly ground
⅓cupcornmeal
1tbspcornstarch
⅓cupolive oil

Instructions

Make the Yogurt Sauce:

Start by whisking all of the yogurt sauce ingredients together except for the salt and pepper.
Taste, then add salt/pepper to your taste.
Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Make the Fritters:

Place the shredded zucchini, sweet potato, and onion in a large strainer.
Top with 1 teaspoon salt and mix it around with a large wooden spoon.
Press down with your hands to begin draining some of the water from the vegetables. Let that sit in the sink for a few minutes.
Line a large bowl with paper towels or a clean dish towel.
Place the vegetable mixture in the bowl and top with more paper towels or fold over the dish towel.
Begin pressing down; you need to get out as much liquid as possible. Grab more paper towels or a new dish towel as needed.
Let the vegetables sit in the towels for 45 minutes, then press again.
Whisk the eggs together in a large bowl.
Once beaten, whisk in the garlic, parsley, mint, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and pepper.
Fold in the vegetables, then add the cornmeal and cornstarch until everything is combined.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, use a fork to scoop up around 2 Tablespoons of the zucchini mixture.
There may be liquid pooling in the bottom of the bowl, so make sure you use a fork so the excess liquid isn’t in your fritter.
Place the mixture onto the hot skillet and flatten with a spatula. Repeat with a few more, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
Cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate until finished.
Serve warm fritters with yogurt sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 1977.52kcal
Fat: 218.46g
Saturated Fat: 30.50g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 158.84g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 23.09g
Carbohydrates: 9.54g
Fiber: 1.23g
Sugar: 2.30g
Protein: 2.41g
Cholesterol: 32.33mg
Sodium: 659.02mg
Calcium: 37.13mg
Potassium: 162.93mg
Iron: 2.06mg
Vitamin A: 103.94µg
Vitamin C: 6.97mg

Pro Tip for Crispy Zucchini Fritters Every Time

When making your zucchini fritters, it's crucial to remove as much moisture as possible from the shredded vegetables. Excess moisture can make your fritters soggy and prevent them from crisping up properly. To achieve this, after salting the vegetables, let them sit for a while. The salt will draw out the moisture. Then, use paper towels or a clean dish towel to press down on the vegetables and absorb the released liquid. Repeat this process a few times until you've removed as much liquid as you can. This will ensure your fritters are crispy on the outside and perfectly cooked on the inside.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the yogurt sauce and shred the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly shred the zucchini, sweet potato, and onion for the fritters.

High heat: Cook the fritters on a higher heat to ensure they cook quickly and evenly, saving time in the process.

Batch cooking: Cook the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can slow down the cooking process.

Organized workspace: Keep your workspace organized and all ingredients readily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Efficient assembly: Set up a station for assembling the fritters to streamline the process and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with summer squash: Summer squash has a similar texture and flavor to zucchini, making it a suitable substitute for zucchini fritters.
sweet potato - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for sweet potato in fritters, providing a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining a similar texture.
cornmeal - Substitute with breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for cornmeal in fritters, providing a different texture while still achieving a crispy coating.
cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cornstarch to help bind the fritter mixture together.

Plating Ideas for Zucchini Fritters With Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

Elevate the fritters: Carefully arrange the fritters on the plate, ensuring they are stacked neatly and presented in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley and mint over the fritters to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle the yogurt sauce: Using a squeeze bottle, delicately drizzle the garlic herb yogurt sauce in a zig-zag pattern over the fritters, creating an elegant and artistic presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few carefully selected edible flowers around the fritters to add a touch of sophistication and a visually stunning element to the dish.
Add a touch of citrus: Grate a small amount of lemon zest over the fritters to infuse a subtle citrus aroma and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Create a balanced composition: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors, textures, and flavors for a visually striking presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving plates or platters to showcase the fritters, adding a touch of luxury to the overall presentation.
Consider negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the fritters to stand out and become the focal point of the dish.
Employ precision and attention to detail: Take the time to meticulously arrange each component, demonstrating a high level of culinary artistry and skill in the presentation.
Highlight the golden crust: Showcase the crispy, golden-brown exterior of the fritters by ensuring they are positioned prominently and catch the light, emphasizing their irresistible texture.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Zucchini Fritters

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to shred the zucchini and sweet potato for the fritters.
Large strainer: A large strainer is essential for draining excess water from the shredded zucchini, sweet potato, and onion.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used to mix and press down the salted vegetables in the strainer to help release excess water.
Paper towels or clean dish towel: These are used to line a bowl and absorb excess moisture from the drained vegetables.
Skillet: A skillet is used to fry the fritters until they are golden brown and crispy.
Spatula: A spatula is used to flatten the zucchini mixture in the skillet and to flip the fritters while cooking.
Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the ingredients for the garlic herb yogurt sauce and to beat the eggs for the fritters.
Large bowl: A large bowl is used to mix the fritter ingredients and to drain the shredded vegetables.
Paper towels: Paper towels are used to line a plate and absorb any excess oil from the cooked fritters.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Zucchini Fritters

To store leftover zucchini fritters, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb any excess moisture, preventing the fritters from becoming soggy. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the zucchini fritters for later use, place the cooled fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the fritters are not touching each other to prevent them from sticking together. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours or until the fritters are frozen solid.
Once the zucchini fritters are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference. The fritters can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen zucchini fritters, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat the fritters in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and heated through.
For the garlic herb yogurt sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give the sauce a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during storage.

How To Reheat Leftover Zucchini Fritters

The best way to reheat leftover zucchini fritters is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're crispy and heated through.
Another option is to reheat the fritters in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the fritters in the basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they're crispy and hot.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the fritters in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, or until they're warmed through. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to the oven or air fryer methods.
For the garlic herb yogurt sauce, simply give it a good stir and serve it cold or at room temperature alongside the reheated fritters. If the sauce has thickened up in the fridge, you can thin it out with a splash of water or lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated fritters, sprinkle them with fresh herbs like parsley or mint before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors.
When reheating the fritters, be sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet or air fryer basket to ensure even heating and crispiness. Avoid stacking them, as this can lead to soggy fritters.

Surprising Fact About Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini fritters are a popular dish in many Mediterranean cuisines. They are a great way to use up excess zucchinis from the garden and are a delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Zucchinis are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. They also contain significant amounts of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, zucchinis are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Budget-Friendly: Making Zucchini Fritters at Home

The zucchini fritters with garlic herb yogurt sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like zucchini, sweet potato, and yogurt makes it budget-friendly. The versatility of the ingredients also allows for easy substitution based on availability, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15. Overall Verdict: 9.

Are Zucchini Fritters Healthy?

The zucchini fritters with garlic herb yogurt sauce recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. The fritters themselves contain nutritious ingredients like zucchini, sweet potato, onion, and herbs, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The use of cornmeal and cornstarch as binding agents is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour. However, the recipe calls for frying the fritters in olive oil, which can increase the calorie and fat content of the dish.

The garlic herb yogurt sauce is a healthy accompaniment, as it uses Greek or regular yogurt as a base, providing protein and probiotics. The addition of herbs, lemon, and garlic adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or sugar.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of frying the fritters, try baking them in the oven or using an air fryer to reduce the amount of oil needed
Replace some of the cornmeal with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Add more vegetables to the fritter mixture, such as grated carrots or chopped spinach, to boost the vitamin and mineral content
Use low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt in the sauce to reduce the calorie and fat content while maintaining the protein and probiotic benefits
Experiment with different herbs and spices in both the fritters and the sauce to add variety and flavor without relying on salt or sugar

Editor's Take: Why We Love Zucchini Fritters With Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

The zucchini fritters with garlic herb yogurt sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The yogurt sauce adds a refreshing and tangy element to complement the crispy fritters. The use of sweet potato and zucchini provides a nutritious twist, while the herbs and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic depth. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the fritters turn out perfectly golden and crispy. Overall, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of savory and fresh flavors, making it a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy and flavorful chicken marinated in a zesty lemon herb sauce and grilled to perfection.

Mango Avocado Salad: A refreshing and colorful salad featuring ripe mangoes, creamy avocados, and a tangy citrus dressing.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A velvety smooth soup made with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream for richness.

Chocolate Raspberry Tart: Indulgent and decadent tart filled with luscious chocolate ganache and topped with fresh raspberries.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Zucchini Fritters

Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries: These crispy baked zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries. They are coated in parmesan and breadcrumbs for a delicious crunch.

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: These Mediterranean stuffed bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground lamb, rice, and Mediterranean spices. They are then baked to perfection and topped with feta cheese.

Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad: This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the saltiness of prosciutto, along with mixed greens and a balsamic vinaigrette for a perfect summer dish.

Pairing Suggestions: Main Courses and Desserts

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Citrus Salsa: Grilled salmon is a versatile and delicious main course that can be paired with a refreshing citrus salsa. The combination of the smoky, charred flavor of the salmon with the bright and zesty citrus salsa creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The salsa can be made with a variety of citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and limes, along with some diced red onions, jalapenos, and cilantro for a pop of freshness. This dish is perfect for a light and healthy dinner option that is bursting with flavor.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers are a hearty and satisfying main course that can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as ground meat, rice, beans, and vegetables. The peppers are hollowed out and then filled with the savory mixture before being baked to perfection. The filling can be customized to suit different dietary preferences, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether it's a classic ground beef and rice filling or a vegetarian-friendly quinoa and black bean stuffing, stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and comforting option for a wholesome dinner.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crispy oat topping. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

Why trust this Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of zucchini and sweet potato to create flavorful fritters. The garlic herb yogurt sauce adds a refreshing and tangy element, enhancing the overall taste. The use of Greek yogurt ensures a creamy and rich texture, while the addition of parsley and mint brings a burst of freshness. The careful preparation of the vegetables, including draining excess moisture, guarantees a perfect fritter texture. With the incorporation of cornmeal and cornstarch, these fritters achieve a satisfying crunch. This recipe promises a delightful and wholesome dining experience.

Want to share your experience making these zucchini fritters or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for the sauce?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for the sauce. However, Greek yogurt will provide a thicker and creamier texture.

Can I substitute the sweet potato with another vegetable in the fritters?

Yes, you can substitute the sweet potato with other vegetables like carrots or butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before cooking.

Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fritters instead of frying them for a healthier option. Simply place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I freeze the fritters for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked fritters for later use. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until heated through.