If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, simple dish that pairs crispy texture with fresh, vibrant flavors, this Zucchini Patties Recipe is going to become your new favorite. These golden, savory patties strike the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, making them irresistibly snackable or a standout side. With tender zucchini, a touch of Parmesan, and a subtle bite of garlic and green onions, every bite delivers cozy comfort wrapped in a crispy crust that’s perfect any time of year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, yet each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect taste, texture, and color. Freshness and balance are the magic here, blending moisture, binding agents, and savory hints that make the patties sing.
- 2 medium zucchinis: Grated and drained to give those patties a tender but not soggy base.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Draws out extra moisture and seasons the zucchini beautifully.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the glue to hold everything together.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps with browning.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Gives the patties structure and a little crunch.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps bind the mixture firmly without overpowering the zucchini’s freshness.
- 2 green onions, finely chopped: Bring a gentle sharpness and lovely flecks of green throughout.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to the patties.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough spice for flavor contrast.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For frying, ensuring that irresistible golden crust.
How to Make Zucchini Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by grating the zucchinis, then sprinkle them with salt and let them rest in a colander for 10 minutes. This step pulls out excess moisture, which is essential to avoid soggy patties. Once time’s up, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This simple trick ensures your patties hold their shape and get that satisfying crispness.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your drained zucchini with the egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, flour, green onions, garlic, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly until it’s fully incorporated. This mixture forms the base of your zucchini patties, and getting a good mix will make sure every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 3: Fry the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat—don’t rush this part, as the right temperature is key for a perfect golden crust. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each patty and gently flatten them in the pan. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until they turn wonderfully golden and crispy. When done, transfer the patties onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
How to Serve Zucchini Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your zucchini patties with the right garnishes can elevate the experience immensely. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add a burst of color and brightness. A dollop of cool sour cream, Greek yogurt, or tzatziki lends a creamy contrast that complements the crispy edges beautifully.
Side Dishes
Zucchini patties are wonderfully versatile when it comes to pairing. They’re fantastic alongside a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even paired with a light soup for a wholesome meal. Their mild flavor allows them to meld effortlessly with your favorite Mediterranean or American-style sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just stacking these patties on a plate. Serve them as mini sliders with a spread of hummus and crisp lettuce or use them as a base for a poached egg and avocado for brunch. These creative tweaks turn a humble zucchini patties recipe into an impressive showstopper that your guests will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Their flavor deepens overnight, and simply reheating them brings back that crispy texture and fresh taste.
Freezing
These patties freeze like a charm. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you want a quick snack or side, just pull them out and cook directly from frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, a quick spin in a hot skillet or air fryer brings back the crispy crust without drying them out. Avoid microwaving unless in a pinch, as that tends to make them soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I make zucchini patties without breadcrumbs?
Yes! If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or oats can work well as a binder. Just keep in mind that different binders might slightly change the texture.
How do I prevent zucchini patties from being watery?
Draining the grated zucchini well is the secret. Make sure to salt it and let it rest, then squeeze out every bit of moisture before mixing. This step is crucial to avoid watery, loose patties.
Are zucchini patties gluten-free?
Not as written because of the breadcrumbs and flour. But you can easily make a gluten-free version by swapping in gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. The patties will still hold together beautifully.
What oil is best for frying zucchini patties?
Olive oil is a great choice for flavor and healthfulness, but you can also use vegetable or canola oil if you prefer a more neutral taste. Just make sure to maintain medium heat to avoid burning.
Can I bake zucchini patties instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a lighter alternative. Arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Zucchini Patties Recipe is a true keeper—quick, easy, and full of flavor that can brighten up any meal or snack time. From the satisfying crunch to the warm, cheesy interior, it’s a dish that invites you to gather in the kitchen and share something really delicious with the people you care about. Give it a try and watch these humble zucchini patties become a staple you turn to again and again.
Print
Zucchini Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy and flavorful Zucchini Patties are a perfect vegetarian side dish or snack, made with grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and green onions, pan-fried to golden perfection. They’re easy to prepare, healthy, and delicious, ideal for summer when zucchinis are in season.
Ingredients
Zucchini Mixture
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Frying
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure your patties are not soggy.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until fully combined to form a batter-like mixture.
- Heat the oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying but not smoking.
- Form and cook patties: Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture per patty into the skillet. Gently flatten each scoop into a round patty shape. Cook each patty for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crisp, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm as a delicious side dish or snack.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
- Serve with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a dollop of tzatziki for enhanced flavor.
- Leftover patties reheat well in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
