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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli

crispy Parmesan zucchini fritters - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini fritters are golden, crunchy, and cheesy, paired perfectly with a creamy homemade garlic aioli dip. A quick and easy snack or side dish that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchinis (about 500g / 1.1 lbs), shredded and well-drained
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup (40g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
  • For the Garlic Aioli:
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Shred the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor and place in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, grated Parmesan, egg, flour, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir until just combined. If too wet, add a little more flour.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or cayenne. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
  4. Heat about 2 tablespoons of olive or vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Scoop heaping tablespoons of the batter into the skillet, flattening slightly. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden and crisp, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes. Cook in batches without overcrowding, adding more oil as needed.
  6. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with garlic aioli.

Notes

Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to ensure crispy fritters. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep fritters light and tender. Cook in batches to maintain pan temperature and crispiness. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, Parmesan fritters, garlic aioli, crispy fritters, easy snack, vegetarian, gluten-free option