Zucchini Fritters with Feta Recipe

Delightfully crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these feta zucchini fritters are a flavorful adventure. Packed with fresh herbs and zesty lemon, each bite is a surprise. The fritters are served with a tangy dill yogurt sauce, adding a creamy contrast that complements the salty feta and earthy zucchini perfectly.

Photos of Zucchini Fritters with Feta Recipe

This recipe calls for a couple of ingredients that might not be staples in your pantry. Feta cheese, a tangy and crumbly cheese, is commonly found in the cheese section of most supermarkets. Fresh dill, while not as commonly used as other herbs, imparts a unique and refreshing flavor to this dish. It's usually located in the produce section. Don't substitute with dried dill, as it lacks the bright flavor of fresh.

Feta Zucchini Fritters Ingredients

Zucchini: A type of summer squash that's high in water content, giving our fritters moisture.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Egg and egg yolk: Binds the ingredients together.

Lemon zest: Adds a citrusy freshness to cut through the richness.

Garlic: Gives an earthy flavor that complements the feta and zucchini.

All-purpose flour: Makes the batter and gives the fritters a crispy exterior.

Feta cheese: Adds a salty, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the zucchini.

Parsley, green onions, and dill: Fresh herbs that provide a freshness and bright flavor.

Olive oil and corn oil: Used for frying the fritters, giving them a crispy, golden brown exterior.

Plain yogurt: The base for our dill yogurt sauce, adding a creamy, tangy element to pair with the fritters.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and tang to the dill yogurt sauce.

Black pepper: Provides a hint of heat.

One reader, Glad Dempsey says:

These feta zucchini fritters were a game-changer! The combination of zucchini and feta was a delightful surprise. The dill yogurt sauce was the perfect complement. I loved the crispy texture and the burst of flavors. This recipe is a definite keeper!

Glad Dempsey

Techniques Required for Making Feta Zucchini Fritters

How to prepare dill yogurt sauce: Whisk together plain yogurt, minced garlic, fresh dill, and fresh lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then cover and refrigerate while preparing the zucchini fritters.

How to grate zucchini: Coarsely grate the zucchini using a box grater or a food processor. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt over the grated zucchini, toss, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, using paper towels or a sieve, press out the excess liquid from the zucchini.

How to make zucchini fritter batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, minced garlic, all-purpose flour, crumbled feta cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss the ingredients together until evenly coated. Then, mix in the chopped parsley, green onions, and fresh dill. If the batter is very wet, add more flour by the spoonful until the desired consistency is achieved.

How to fry zucchini fritters: Heat a mixture of olive oil and corn oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully drop about 3 tablespoons of the batter at a time into the skillet, working in batches. Fry the patties until golden brown on the bottom, then carefully flip and cook the opposite side until golden. Transfer the cooked fritters to paper towels to drain, adding more oil to the skillet as needed, and continue frying in batches.

How to serve zucchini fritters: Serve the fritters warm with the prepared dill yogurt sauce.

How To Make Zucchini Feta Patties

Switch things up this summer with some cheesy zucchini fritters for your vegetable side dish or have them as a main paired with fresh Greek salad.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2½cupscoarsely grated zucchini,about 3 medium zucchini
1tspsalt,divided
1largeegg
1largeegg yolk
1½tspZest of lemon
1clovegarlic,minced
½cupall-purpose flour,plus more as needed
½cupfeta cheese,crumbled
1cupfresh parsley,chopped
½cupgreen onions,chopped
1½tbspfresh dill,chopped
6tbspolive oil
6tbspcorn oil

For Dill Yogurt Sauce:

1cupplain yogurt
1clovegarlic,minced
2tspfresh dill,chopped
2tspfresh lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Dill Yogurt Sauce:

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl. Cover and allow to rest in the refrigerator while preparing patties.

Zucchini Fritters:

Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of salt over zucchini, toss and let rest 5 minutes. Using paper towels or a sieve, press excess liquid from zucchini. Place zucchini in a mixing bowl.
Add egg, egg yolk, lemon zest, garlic, flour, feta, and ½ teaspoon of salt (or less to taste), and toss to evenly coat.
Mix in parsley, green onions, and dill. If the batter is very wet, mix in more flour by the spoonful.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of corn oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Working in batches, carefully drop batter about 3 tablespoons at a time into skillet.
Fry patties until golden brown on bottom, then carefully flip and cook opposite side until golden. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Add more oil as needed and continue to fry in batches.
Serve warm with dill yogurt sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 1056.12kcal
Fat: 48.83g
Saturated Fat: 25.29g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.20g
Carbohydrates: 115.77g
Fiber: 7.94g
Sugar: 13.07g
Protein: 39.42g
Cholesterol: 167.03mg
Sodium: 1423.42mg
Calcium: 895.54mg
Potassium: 924.74mg
Iron: 9.39mg
Vitamin A: 289.40µg
Vitamin C: 50.66mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Feta Zucchini Fritters

When preparing the zucchini for the fritters, it's crucial to remove as much moisture as possible. This can be achieved by salting the grated zucchini and letting it sit for a few minutes. The salt draws out the water, which can then be squeezed out. This step ensures your fritters won't be soggy and will have a nice, crispy texture when fried.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Feta Zucchini Fritters

Grate zucchini in advance: Grate the zucchini ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save time when you're ready to make the fritters.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to grate the zucchini and chop the herbs. It will save you time and effort compared to doing it by hand.

Double the batch: Make a double batch of the fritter mixture and freeze half for later. This way, you'll have a quick and easy meal ready to go when you're short on time.

Prep the dill yogurt sauce in advance: Prepare the dill yogurt sauce a day ahead and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day you plan to serve the fritters.

Use a non-stick skillet: Using a non-stick skillet will prevent the fritters from sticking and make the cooking process quicker and easier.

Organize ingredients beforehand: Measure and prepare all the ingredients before you start cooking. This will streamline the cooking process and make it more efficient.

Cook in batches: Cook the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking. This will save time in the long run.

Invest in a good grater: Invest in a high-quality grater to make the grating process quicker and more efficient.

Delegate tasks: If you have willing helpers, delegate tasks like grating zucchini or mixing the fritter batter to save time and make the cooking process more enjoyable.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls as you cook to keep your workspace organized and save time on cleanup later.

Substitute Ingredients For Zucchini Fritters with Feta Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with summer squash: Summer squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini in fritters as they have a similar texture and mild flavor.
feta cheese - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor and crumbly texture similar to feta, making it a great substitute in fritters.

Presenting Feta Zucchini Fritters Beautifully

Elevate the fritters with a dill yogurt sauce: Present the fritters on a pristine white plate, drizzle the dill yogurt sauce in a delicate swirl pattern around the fritters, and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Arrange the fritters in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring that each fritter is placed with precision and care to create a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Incorporate vibrant green accents: Introduce a touch of vibrancy to the plate by adding a small bed of microgreens or pea shoots as a base for the fritters, enhancing the overall visual appeal and adding a fresh, earthy element to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some negative space on the plate, creating a clean and sophisticated presentation that highlights the fritters as the focal point of the dish.
Add a touch of citrus: Grate a hint of lemon zest over the fritters just before serving to infuse the dish with a burst of citrus aroma, adding a subtle layer of complexity to the overall flavor profile.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by delicately placing edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, around the fritters, adding a visually stunning and gourmet touch to the presentation.
Consider the plate shape and color: Select a plate with a modern, minimalist design and a neutral color palette to allow the vibrant hues of the fritters and garnishes to stand out, creating a visually striking and sophisticated presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Feta Zucchini Fritters

Grater: A grater is used to coarsely grate the zucchini for the fritters.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the grated zucchini with other ingredients to form the fritter batter.
Skillet: A skillet is used to fry the zucchini fritters until they are golden brown on both sides.
Paper towels: Paper towels are used to drain the fried fritters and remove excess oil.
Whisk: A whisk is used to mix the ingredients for the dill yogurt sauce together until smooth.
Sieve: A sieve can be used to press excess liquid from the grated zucchini before mixing it with other ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure the ingredients for the fritters and the dill yogurt sauce.
Lemon zester: A lemon zester is used to zest the lemon for a burst of citrus flavor in the fritters.
Spatula: A spatula is used to carefully flip the fritters while frying to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Cooking oil: Cooking oil is used for frying the zucchini fritters in the skillet.

Storing and Freezing Feta Zucchini Fritters

To store leftover zucchini fritters, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the fritters, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the fritters to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated fritters, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil until crispy and warmed through.
For frozen fritters, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the frozen fritters on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, cooking for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.
The dill yogurt sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the liquid may separate slightly over time.

How To Reheat Leftover Feta Zucchini Fritters

To reheat leftover feta zucchini fritters, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy on the outside. This method helps to retain their texture and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Another option is to reheat the fritters in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the fritters and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through. This method will give the fritters a crispy exterior and a warm, soft interior.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the zucchini fritters in the microwave. Place the fritters on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until they are heated through. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture compared to oven or stovetop reheating.
For a quick and easy lunch or dinner, consider serving the reheated fritters with a side salad or a dollop of yogurt sauce. The cool, creamy sauce will complement the warm, crispy fritters perfectly.
If you have any leftover dill yogurt sauce, you can use it as a dip for the reheated fritters or as a dressing for a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. The sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Interesting Fact About Feta Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini fritters are a popular dish in Greek cuisine and are often served as a meze or appetizer. They are a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini and are a delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.

Is Making Feta Zucchini Fritters at Home Cost-Effective?

This feta zucchini fritters recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients, such as zucchini, eggs, and flour, are budget-friendly and readily available. The addition of feta cheese and fresh herbs elevates the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The dill yogurt sauce enhances the overall experience, and its ingredients, including plain yogurt and lemon juice, are also affordable. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it a wallet-friendly option.

Are Feta Zucchini Fritters Healthy or Unhealthy?

The feta zucchini fritters recipe is a delicious and creative way to incorporate vegetables into your diet. However, from a nutritional standpoint, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make it a healthier option:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of oil for frying, which can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats to the dish.
While the fritters do contain zucchini and herbs, the amount of vegetables could be increased to boost the nutritional value.
The use of all-purpose flour and feta cheese contributes to the carbohydrate and saturated fat content of the fritters.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of deep-frying the fritters, try baking them in the oven or cooking them on a non-stick griddle with minimal oil. This will significantly reduce the calorie and fat content.
Increase the proportion of zucchini in the recipe to make the fritters more veggie-packed. You could also experiment with adding other grated vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to enhance the nutritional profile.
Swap the all-purpose flour for a whole grain alternative, such as whole wheat flour or oat flour, to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
Reduce the amount of feta cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat content. You could also experiment with using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Serve the fritters with a larger portion of the dill yogurt sauce, which is a great source of protein and calcium. You could also pair them with a fresh side salad to add more vegetables to the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Feta Zucchini Fritters Recipe

The feta zucchini fritters recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh herbs and feta cheese adds a burst of freshness and tanginess to the fritters, while the dill yogurt sauce provides a creamy and refreshing accompaniment. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for home cooks, and the fritters themselves are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy zucchini and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Zucchini Fritters with Feta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Try serving the feta zucchini fritters with a side of garlic parmesan roasted asparagus for a delicious and flavorful combination.

Honey Glazed Carrots: For a touch of sweetness, pair the feta zucchini fritters with honey glazed carrots to balance out the savory flavors.

Mango Avocado Salad: Create a refreshing and tropical twist by serving the feta zucchini fritters with a side of mango avocado salad for a burst of freshness.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in a rich and creamy side dish like creamy mushroom risotto to complement the crispy texture of the feta zucchini fritters.

Berry Cobbler: End the meal on a sweet note by pairing the feta zucchini fritters with a warm and comforting berry cobbler for a satisfying dessert.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Zucchini Fritters with Feta

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Citrus Grilled Chicken Salad: This refreshing salad features grilled chicken marinated in a citrusy dressing, paired with a mix of fresh greens, colorful vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: Indulge in a nutritious and delicious dessert with this easy-to-make chia seed pudding, infused with the natural sweetness of mixed berries and a hint of vanilla.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Feta Zucchini Fritters

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a flavorful and colorful stir fry by sautéing thinly sliced beef with an assortment of crisp vegetables in a savory sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a quick and delicious dinner option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of decadence.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping that adds a burst of fruity flavor to every bite.

Why trust this Zucchini Fritters with Feta Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its combination of fresh zucchini, flavorful feta cheese, and aromatic dill. The use of lemon zest and garlic adds a zesty kick, while the parsley and green onions contribute to the overall freshness. The dill yogurt sauce, made with plain yogurt and fresh lemon juice, complements the fritters perfectly. With the careful instructions and attention to detail, this recipe promises a delicious outcome, earning the trust of users seeking a delightful and satisfying culinary adventure.

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FAQ:

Can I make the zucchini fritters ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can make the zucchini fritters ahead of time and reheat them later. Simply place them on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

Can I freeze the zucchini fritters?

Yes, you can freeze the zucchini fritters. After frying, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute the feta cheese with other cheeses such as goat cheese, ricotta, or even shredded cheddar. Each cheese will bring its own unique flavor to the fritters.

Can I make the dill yogurt sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the dill yogurt sauce in advance. It actually tastes even better if you allow the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Can I use a different herb instead of dill in the dill yogurt sauce?

Of course! You can use other herbs like mint, cilantro, or chives to create a different flavor profile for the yogurt sauce. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that suits your taste preferences.