Quick and Easy Zucchini Patties to Try Today
If you’re looking for a fantastic way to turn fresh zucchini into something irresistibly delicious, you’re going to love this recipe for Easy Zucchini Patties. They come together in minutes, require just a handful of simple ingredients, and deliver a crispy, flavorful bite every time. Whether as a snack, a side dish, or even a light meal, these zucchini patties offer a fresh, wholesome twist that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings.
- Nutritious and Light: Packed with fresh zucchini, making them a healthy option everyone’s happy to eat.
- Crispy Perfection: Achieves a golden crust outside while staying tender and flavorful inside.
- Versatile Snack: Great on their own, as an appetizer, or paired with dips and sides.
- Kid-Friendly: A sneaky way to get more veggies into little ones’ diets without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, easy to find, and each plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that perfect golden color for your Easy Zucchini Patties.
- Fresh zucchinis: The star ingredient, shredded and drained to keep patties moist but not soggy.
- Eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and helps form a crispy crust.
- All-purpose flour or breadcrumbs: Provides structure that keeps the patties intact when cooking.
- Garlic and herbs: Boost the flavor with optional minced garlic, fresh parsley, or dill for a fragrant touch.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- Olive oil or vegetable oil: For frying to a beautiful golden brown exterior.
Variations for Easy Zucchini Patties
Feel free to make this recipe your own—switch up ingredients and experiment with flavors that fit your taste buds or dietary preferences. These patties are incredibly adaptable!
- Cheesy twist: Try blending in shredded cheddar or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a gooey texture.
- Gluten-free option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the patties friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat.
- Vegan adaptation: Replace egg with flax egg and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a delicious plant-based version.
- Herb variations: Swap parsley for basil, cilantro, or chives to change the flavor profile effortlessly.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Patties
Step 1: Prepare the zucchini
Start by shredding the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Sprinkle with a little salt and transfer to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze firmly to remove as much excess moisture as possible; this step is key to preventing soggy patties.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan, flour (or breadcrumbs), minced garlic, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all components are thoroughly incorporated.
Step 3: Form the patties
Use your hands or a spoon to scoop the mixture and shape it into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook until crispy
Heat a generous layer of olive or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties carefully and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve warm
Enjoy immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Making Easy Zucchini Patties
- Remove moisture well: Excess water in zucchini can make patties fall apart or soggy, so squeeze thoroughly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry patties in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent for a crispy crust.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet: Prevents sticking and helps develop a perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Let patties rest briefly: After mixing, refrigerate batter for 10 minutes to help them firm up before frying.
- Adjust flour for texture: Add more flour or breadcrumbs if mixture feels too wet to ensure a sturdy patty.
How to Serve Easy Zucchini Patties
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill brighten these patties beautifully. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of lemon-infused yogurt sauce also complements their flavor wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls for a complete and satisfying meal. They also work well alongside grilled meats or fish as a fresh vegetable sidekick.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the patties with layers of avocado slices and tomato for a fresh appetizer stack or serve them mini with toothpicks for parties. You can also turn them into sliders by sandwiching between small buns with your favorite condiments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They hold up well and stay flavorful when stored properly.
Freezing
Flash freeze patties on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. This makes having a quick snack or side dish on hand super easy.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, or bake in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the patties from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I bake the Easy Zucchini Patties instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a healthier option and still yields tasty patties. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Removing as much water from the zucchini as possible and making sure to include the eggs and flour or breadcrumbs as binders are essential steps to help patties hold their shape.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
You can, but make sure to thaw completely and squeeze out all excess moisture before using. This helps avoid sogginess and poor texture.
What dips go well with these patties?
Try tzatziki, sour cream with herbs, a simple garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for tasty dipping options.
Are Easy Zucchini Patties gluten-free?
They can be if you substitute regular flour or breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free crumbs.
Final Thoughts
Easy Zucchini Patties are a quick, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy summer squash any time of year. This no-fuss recipe is perfect for adding crisp, flavorful veggies to your meals while pleasing the whole family. Give them a try today—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these golden bites of goodness!
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Easy Zucchini Patties
Easy Zucchini Patties are a quick, healthy, and crispy delight made from fresh shredded zucchini combined with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Perfect as a snack, side, or light meal, these golden patties come together in under 30 minutes delivering a flavorful and wholesome bite loved by the whole family.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 patties 1x
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium fresh zucchinis, shredded and drained
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternatives)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Shred the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Sprinkle with a little salt, then transfer to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much excess moisture as possible, preventing soggy patties.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thoroughly drained zucchini, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan, flour or breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Form the patties: Use your hands or a spoon to scoop and shape the mixture into small patties about 2-3 inches in diameter, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Cook until crispy: Heat a generous layer of olive or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add patties carefully and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm: Enjoy immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Remove moisture well: Thoroughly squeeze zucchini to prevent patties from falling apart or getting soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and a crispy crust.
- Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet: Prevents sticking and helps develop perfect golden-brown patties.
- Let patties rest briefly: Refrigerate batter for 10 minutes before cooking to firm up the mixture.
- Adjust flour/breadcrumbs if needed: Add more if mixture feels too wet to ensure patties hold their shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 patties
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: zucchini patties, zucchini fritters, healthy snacks, gluten-free zucchini, vegetable patties, easy appetizers