These Zucchini Feta Spinach Fritters are crispy bites of veggie goodness! Packed with cheese and greens, they’re perfect for a snack or a light meal.
And let’s talk about that garlic tzatziki—you’ll want to slather it on everything! 😄 I love dipping the fritters in it for a fresh and tasty twist!
Making these fritters is so easy! Just mix the ingredients, fry them up, and enjoy the yummy flavors. Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the star of this dish. You can substitute with yellow squash if needed. Both have similar textures and flavors, making them great alternatives. If you can’t find any, grated carrots can also bring some sweetness.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tang to the fritters. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a similar flavor. Cream cheese could work too, but it’s milder.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the go-to, but you can also use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Chopped kale can work in a pinch too.
Greek Yogurt: This is key for the tzatziki sauce! You could use sour cream or regular yogurt if you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, as they provide a creamy texture. For a lighter version, try low-fat yogurt.
How Can I Get Crispy Fritters?
Getting those fritters crispy is all about moisture control and the right frying technique. Follow these steps for the best results:
- After grating the zucchini, sprinkle with salt and let it sit to draw out moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible!
- Keep the frying oil at medium heat. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Test with a small piece; it should sizzle but not smoke.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Zucchini Feta Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 2 cups grated)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for fluffiness)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
For the Garlic Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained of excess water
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time grating and mixing, then just fry them up until golden and crispy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis into a large bowl. Once grated, sprinkle a little salt over them and let the zucchini sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out excess water which can make your fritters soggy. After 10 minutes, take the zucchini and squeeze it using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to remove as much moisture as you can.
2. Mix the Fritter Ingredients:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, and parsley if you’re using it. Give this mixture a good stir to combine everything nicely.
3. Create the Batter:
Next, crack the eggs into the bowl with the veggies and cheese. Add in the flour, baking powder (if you want fluffier fritters), and season with salt and black pepper. Mix everything together until you have a nice, thick batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in a few tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
5. Cook the Fritters:
Now, it’s time to fry! Using a spoon or your hands, form small patties or fritters that are about 2-3 inches in diameter. Carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
6. Drain the Fritters:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. This keeps them nice and crispy!
7. Prepare the Garlic Tzatziki:
While the fritters are cooking, you can make the garlic tzatziki. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure it’s drained), minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the garlic and dill to your liking if you prefer a stronger flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your zucchini feta spinach fritters warm, accompanied by a generous dollop of garlic tzatziki on the side or drizzled right on top. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful and fresh fritters!
FAQ for Zucchini Feta Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for the best texture and flavor. If you only have frozen zucchini, make sure it’s fully thawed and drained of excess water before using it to avoid sogginess.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or cream cheese for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Prepare the Fritters Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the zucchini fritters in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a pan before serving for the best texture. The tzatziki can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy your fritters!
