Are you looking for a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet? Look no further than these Zucchini Patties! Packed with flavor, these crispy patties are made with grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of savory spices. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or a light meal, these zucchini patties are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore all the delicious details!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated zucchini, well-drained* (approximately 3 medium zucchini)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (25 grams)
- 1/4 cup flour (32 grams)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1-2 dashes black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, finely chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, mayonnaise, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Form the Patties
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Using your hands, shape the zucchini mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Carefully place the patties in the heated skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the zucchini patties warm as a delicious side dish or appetizer. You can also enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or toppings, such as sour cream or tzatziki sauce.
Cook’s Notes:
- *To drain the grated zucchini, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess moisture over a sink or bowl. This will prevent the patties from becoming soggy.
- For extra flavor, you can add additional seasonings or herbs to the zucchini mixture, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh parsley.
- If the zucchini mixture seems too wet, you can add a little extra flour to help bind the ingredients together.
Variations:
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the zucchini mixture for an extra cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the zucchini mixture for a hint of heat.
- Herbaceous Blend: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil, thyme, or paprika, to customize the flavor of the patties to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly and low-carb version of these Zucchini Patties, you can make the following substitutions:
- Flour: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb alternative.
- Mayonnaise: Opt for a sugar-free or homemade mayonnaise to reduce the carb content of the patties.
- Serve with Keto-Friendly Sauce: Pair the zucchini patties with a keto-friendly dipping sauce, such as ranch or avocado aioli, for a delicious low-carb snack or appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the zucchini patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked zucchini patties for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake them in the oven or reheat them in a skillet until warmed through.
These Zucchini Patties are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy the bounty of summer zucchini. Whether you serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or light meal, their crispy exterior and tender interior will have everyone coming back for more. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these flavorful patties in no time. Give this recipe a try and elevate your next meal with the irresistible taste of homemade zucchini patties!