Follow this recipe to make crispy zucchini fritters in the oven without frying. This method uses Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for texture.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:27 min
Total Time:47 min
Yield:About 12 fritters
Category:Appetizer
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 medium zucchini (about 1 pound)
1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs, plus 1/4 cup for coating
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 green onion, thinly sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray
Instructions
Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and toss with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Squeeze the zucchini firmly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is key for crispiness.
In a medium bowl, combine the dried zucchini, beaten egg, 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, flour, green onion, garlic, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat the paper with cooking spray.
Scoop the mixture into small patties, about 2 tablespoons each. Gently flatten them slightly.
Place the remaining 1/4 cup of Panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Lightly press both sides of each fritter into the breadcrumbs to coat.
Place the coated fritters on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Lightly spray the tops of the fritters with cooking spray.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, then carefully flip the fritters. Spray the second side lightly with cooking spray.
Bake for another 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve warm.
Notes
Squeezing the moisture out of the zucchini is the most important step for achieving a crispy texture when baking.
For an even crispier result, you can lightly brush the tops of the fritters with melted butter before the final baking stage.
These fritters pair well with a simple Greek yogurt and dill dipping sauce.