Name: Healthy Zucchini Fritters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 3 cup zucchini (~2 large zucchinis, grated and squeezed); 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs (whisked); 2 garlic cloves (minced); ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ cup oat flour ((see notes for homemade oat flour instructions)); ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 - 3 tbsp olive oil; Use this recipe for easy tzatziki sauce.

These easy and healthy zucchini fritters are perfectly crispy with soft, cheesy centers. They're Greek-inspired, made with egg, oat flour, and crumbled feta. Serve them with tatziki for the perfect appetizer, brunch, or side dish.

crispy and healthy zucchini fritters pancakes

Crispiest healthy fritter recipe

Zucchini fritters are incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for satisfying those salty cravings, right next to this air fryer halloumi. This recipe keeps it simple with homemade oat flour, eggs, and a blend of spices-all mixed together in just one bowl. Best of all, we're skipping the deep fryer and using a pan instead! You can even use the oven or air fryer.

Zucchini fritters have become my go-to for any mealtime. They're not only healthy and packed with flavor, but when you get that perfect crispy outside and tender inside-oh man, it's addictive! Whenever friends and family ask for these, I'm ready to whip up a batch. And hey, here's the kicker-you can pan-fry them for that classic crispiness or pop 'em in the oven or air fryer. Either way, they turn out crispy on the outside and perfectly soft on the inside.

My family can't get enough, and honestly, neither can I. I'm beyond excited to share this recipe with you all! These fritters are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Even the pickiest eaters will be asking for more, I guarantee it.

By the way, I'm updating the photos for this recipe, but don't worry-it's the same amazing taste and recipe that's been getting rave reviews. Trust me, once you try these crispy zucchini fritters, you'll agree-they're the BEST!

Why you'll love this gluten-free recipe:

Healthy: Made with wholesome ingredients like zucchini, oat flour, and feta.
Crispy & Cheesy: Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy inside.
Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe quick and straightforward.
Versatile: Great as an appetizer, brunch, or side dish.
Diet-Friendly: Gluten-free with easy options for dairy-free and vegan.
Delicious: Bursting with Greek-inspired flavors and pairs perfectly with tzatziki.
Air Fry Friendly: Instead of pan frying, you can air fry them too!
Try these air fryer pita chips next!

Ingredients needed

These crispy zucchini fritters are easy to make and call for simple, wholesome, and healthier ingredients. They're made with oat flour, so these fritters are 100% gluten-free. Here is a list of everything you need so you are prepared:

Zucchini: Grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture, ensuring the fritters are crispy without being soggy.
Salt: Essential for drawing out moisture from the zucchini, preventing the fritters from becoming too wet.
Eggs: Whisked and added to bind the ingredients together, providing structure to the fritters.
Garlic: Minced finely to infuse each bite with a savory depth of flavor.
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the other seasonings in the fritters.
Dried Oregano: Provides a Mediterranean flair, enhancing the overall herbaceous profile of the dish.
Oat Flour: Used as a gluten-free alternative to traditional flour, ensuring the fritters hold their shape.
Baking Powder: Helps the fritters achieve a light and fluffy texture when cooked.
Crumbled Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy and tangy element that pairs perfectly with the zucchini.
Olive Oil: Used in the pan to fry the fritters, imparting a rich flavor and ensuring a crispy exterior.
Tzatziki Sauce: Optional, but highly recommended for serving alongside the fritters, providing a cool and refreshing contrast. I love this recipe!

Kitchen tools needed

Here is a quick list of all the kitchen tools you'll need to make these extra-crispy zucchini fritters:

Large skillet
Grater
Colander or Strainer
Clean Dish Towel or Cheesecloth
Large Mixing Bowl
Whisk
Measuring Spoons
Spatula

all ingredients in recipe in small bowls with labels

How to make healthy zucchini fritters

Healthy zucchini fritters are super easy to make. This recipe is gluten-free, crispy, healthy, and flavorful. Here are detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference so that any level of cook can make it; just scroll to the bottom of this post for the full recipe and ingredient measurements.

Grate the zucchini. First, grate the zucchinis and place them in a large strainer or colander. Sprinkle generously with salt (about ½ - 1 tsp) and let them sit for 10 minutes to allow the excess moisture to drain. After that, use a clean dish towel or cheesecloth to squeeze and remove any remaining moisture from the zucchini thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent soggy fritters.

squeezing grate zucchini in a dish towel to remove liquid

how to squeeze excess water out of grated zucchini

Combine. Combine the squeezed zucchini, oat flour, whisked eggs, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.

Heat Pan. Then, heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat.

Prepare. Using a spoon, scoop about two tablespoons of the batter onto the heated pan for each fritter. Use a spatula to flatten them slightly into shape.

Cook. Next, cook the fritters for approximately 2 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crisp.

Rest. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Serve. Finally, serve the zucchini fritters immediately with homemade tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy your delicious and healthy gluten-free snack or side dish!

zucchini fritter batter in a pan with hot olive oil

golden crispy zucchini fritters in a pan after flipping

Expert recipe tips:

Thoroughly Drain the Zucchini: Using a clean dish towel or cheesecloth, squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini.
Don't overmix the batter. Keep it thick enough to form the zucchini pancakes. Check out the batter picture above.
Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon for even fritters.
Preheat Pan: Ensure the pan and oil are hot before adding batter for a crispy crust.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches to prevent steaming and ensure crispiness.
Serve Immediately: For the best, crispiest texture, serve right after frying. If needed, keep warm in a low oven.

Easy ingredient substitutions:

Here are some easy ingredient substitutions for this healthy fritter recipe. I recommend swapping only one or two ingredients so the entire recipe doesn't change.

Oat Flour: Use ¾ cup of almond flour or ½ cup whole wheat flour instead of oat flour.
Feta Cheese: Substitute with goat cheese, ricotta, or grated Parmesan.
Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a vegan alternative.
Garlic: Replace with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh garlic isn't available.
Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or coconut oil for frying.
Zucchini: Try grated yellow summer squash, carrots, or a mix of zucchini and yellow squash for variety.

What to serve with zucchini fritters:

These healthy zucchini fritters pair well with so many dishes. Since they are Greek-inspired, I love eating them with tzatziki sauce and some grilled chicken, crispy chicken thighs, shrimp, or salmon. You can even enjoy them with some sour cream, Greek yogurt, and tahini. The options are endless! If you want some vegetarian protein, savory zucchini pancakes also taste great with eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I air fryer fritters?

Yes! You can air fry zucchini fritters for a healthier alternative to pan-frying. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the fritters in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

How do you keep fritters from getting soggy?

To keep your fritters from getting soggy, ensure all the liquid is squeezed out of the zucchini. Use a cloth after letting the salt remove excess moisture from the shredded zucchini. Also, don't skip the olive oil; it helps make the fritters extra crispy.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes! You can use the same amount of yellow squash to make these healthy fritters. Yellow squash is an easy substitute if you are out of zucchini.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes! To make these fritters dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese substitute or omit the cheese altogether. The fritters will still be delicious and crispy.

Can you bake zucchini fritters in the oven?

Yes! Although using a pan gives the fritters a crispier outside, baking them is a great option. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Shape 2 tablespoons of batter into pancakes and place them on the sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes on each side, totaling around 20 minutes.

Can I freeze cooked fritters?

Yes! You can freeze cooked zucchini fritters. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, I like to throw them into the air fryer for 10 minutes at around 350 degrees F until warm and crispy again.

How to store and reheat zucchini fritters:

Storing: Place leftover fritters in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a pan on the stovetop for a crispy texture or in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 5 - 8 minutes. I don't recommend the microwave because they can get soggy.

If you love this recipe, try these recipes next!

Did you make this recipe?

If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don't forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!

📖 Recipe

I only recommend products I love and use myself. In full disclosure, I may receive a small compensation for purchasing a product I recommend. Thank you for supporting Healthful Blondie!

Sharing is caring!

Comments

5 from 11 votes (7 ratings without comment)