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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fritters Easy Recipe with Zesty Lemon Herb Dip

Parmesan zucchini fritters - featured image

These golden, crispy zucchini fritters with a nutty Parmesan crunch are quick and easy to make, served with a refreshing zesty lemon herb dip. Perfect for a satisfying snack or side dish that’s both comforting and fresh.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 2 cups grated), rinsed and dried well
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Olive oil or avocado oil for frying
  • For the dip:
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (can use dairy-free coconut yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill or basil
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater to get about 2 cups. Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible, pressing hard for at least 2 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, Parmesan, flour, beaten eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Stir gently until just combined. If mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a non-stick or cast iron skillet until shimmering but not smoking.
  4. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter and carefully place in the skillet, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to keep shape intact.
  5. Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Keep warm in a low oven (around 200°F / 90°C) if cooking in batches.
  6. While fritters cook, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Chill in the fridge until serving.
  7. Serve fritters warm on a platter with the zesty lemon herb dip on the side. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure crisp fritters. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and browning. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep fritters crispy. Keep cooked fritters warm in a low oven if cooking in batches. The lemon herb dip can be made ahead and thinned with water or milk if desired. For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with almond flour and consider adding an extra egg for binding.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, Parmesan fritters, zucchini pancakes, crispy fritters, lemon herb dip, easy appetizer, gluten-free option, vegetarian snack