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zucchini fritters with lemon yogurt sauce

Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Lemon Yogurt

These Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Lemon Yogurt are golden on the outside and tender on the inside with a bright, fresh finish. Grated zucchini cooks into light, savory patties that pair perfectly with a cool, tangy lemon yogurt sauce. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that works beautifully as an appetizer, side, or light meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Fritters

  • 3 medium zucchini grated
  • 1 tsp salt for drawing out moisture
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika optional
  • 2 –3 tbsp olive oil for frying

For the Lemon Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove grated
  • Salt to taste

Instructions  

Step 1: Grate and Drain the Zucchini

  • Grate zucchini using a box grater and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
  • After resting, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step is critical for crispy fritters.

Step 2: Make the Batter

  • Transfer drained zucchini to a large bowl. Add eggs, flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic, pepper, and paprika.
  • Mix until just combined. The mixture should be thick but scoopable.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the batter.

Step 4: Cook the Fritters

  • Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter into the pan. Gently flatten with a spatula.
  • Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  • Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

How to Make the Lemon Yogurt Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, and salt.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill for 10–15 minutes for best flavor.

Alternative Cooking Methods

    Baked Zucchini Fritters

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment
    • Brush fritters lightly with oil
    • Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway

    Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

    • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
    • Spray basket lightly with oil
    • Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway

    Video

    Notes

    📝 Notes

    • Use firm, fresh zucchini for best texture and crispiness.
    • Grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy fritters.
    • All-purpose flour works best, but gluten-free flour can be substituted.
    • Mix herbs and garlic into the batter for extra flavor.
    • Cook fritters in a hot skillet with a little oil for even browning.
    • Serve immediately with lemon yogurt sauce for the best taste.
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
    • Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.

    🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

    Calories: 180  
    Carbohydrates: 15g  
    Fiber: 3g  
    Sugars: 3g  
    Protein: 6g  
    Fat: 10g  
    Saturated Fat: 3g  
    Cholesterol: 55mg  
    Sodium: 220mg  
    Potassium: 320mg  
    Calcium: 60mg  
    Iron: 1.2mg
    Keyword Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Lemon Yogurt