When it comes to versatile and delicious vegetable dishes, Zucchini Patties stand out as a favorite for many home cooks. These golden, crispy patties transform humble zucchini into a satisfying appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. They’re packed with fresh flavors, easy to prepare, and perfect for using up an abundant summer harvest—or anytime you want a nutritious, comforting bite.
Whether you’re looking for a way to sneak more veggies into your meals or craving something crunchy and savory, zucchini patties deliver on every front. In this article, you’ll learn what makes them special, how to make them perfectly every time, and tips for serving and customizing.
What Are Zucchini Patties?
Zucchini patties are essentially fritters made from grated zucchini combined with simple ingredients like eggs, cheese, and herbs, then pan-fried until crispy on the outside and tender inside. The patties boast a mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces and dips—from tangy yogurt to spicy aioli.
Because zucchini contains a lot of moisture, the key to perfect patties is draining the excess water well before cooking. This helps ensure the patties hold together and get that satisfying golden crust.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 medium zucchinis (about 3 cups grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 12 patties
Instructions
1. Grate and Drain
Using a box grater or food processor, grate the zucchini. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crispy patties.
2. Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, salt, eggs, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Form Patties
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Fry
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add patties in batches, cooking 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
5. Drain and Serve
Remove patties from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Patty)
- Calories: Approximately 90
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
These patties are a great low-calorie snack or side, rich in vitamins A and C, and a good source of fiber and protein.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Dips and Sauces: Serve with tzatziki, sour cream, garlic aioli, or salsa for a burst of complementary flavor.
- Plating: Stack patties with a dollop of yogurt and sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Meal Pairing: Pair zucchini patties with a fresh salad, grilled meats, or even tuck them into pita bread for a satisfying sandwich.
Variations to Try
- Cheese Swap: Substitute Parmesan with feta or cheddar for a different taste profile.
- Add Veggies: Mix in grated carrots, corn, or finely chopped spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Make It Vegan: Replace eggs with flax or chia egg and use vegan cheese alternatives.
- Bake Instead of Fry: For a lighter option, bake patties at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Why You’ll Love Zucchini Patties
Zucchini patties are a perfect way to showcase fresh produce in a crowd-pleasing form. They come together quickly, offer a balance of crunch and tenderness, and can easily be adapted to fit any meal style or dietary preference. Their mild flavor makes them a versatile side or snack that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Moreover, they’re a fantastic way to reduce food waste by using up zucchini before it gets too soft—turning garden or farmer’s market finds into golden bites of joy.
Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a dinner party or a quick weeknight side, zucchini patties bring flavor, texture, and wholesome goodness to the table. Their crispy exterior and soft interior make them delightfully addictive, and the simple ingredients mean you can make them anytime with little fuss.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious way to celebrate zucchini’s versatility—one crispy, flavorful patty at a time.