Spinach & Cheese Zucchini Fritters
Yield: 8–10 fritters
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini (about 2 cups grated)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the zucchini
- Grate the zucchini.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
Step 2: Mix the batter
In a large bowl, combine:
- Grated zucchini
- Chopped spinach
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Eggs
- Flour
- Garlic
- Onion powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Cook
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop about ¼ cup of mixture for each fritter.
- Flatten gently.
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Optional Oven Method
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- Sour cream
- Greek yogurt
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Marinara sauce
- Fresh salad
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Fritter)
(Based on 10 fritters)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 115 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 48 mg |
| Sodium | 230 mg |
| Potassium | 180 mg |
| Calcium | 170 mg |
| Iron | 0.8 mg |
| Vitamin A | 18% DV |
| Vitamin C | 12% DV |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I reheat them?
- Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes
- Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes
- Skillet: 2–3 minutes per side
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water before using.
Q: How do I keep the fritters crispy?
The key is removing as much moisture as possible from the zucchini and spinach before mixing.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Replace the all-purpose flour with:
- Oat flour
- Almond flour (texture will be softer)
- A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Q: What other cheeses work well?
- Cheddar
- Monterey Jack
- Swiss
- Pepper Jack
- Feta (for a tangier flavor)
Q: Can I add protein?
Absolutely. Try adding:
- Cooked shredded chicken
- Crumbled bacon
- Diced ham
- Canned tuna (well drained)
Q: Why are my fritters falling apart?
Common reasons include:
- Too much moisture in the vegetables
- Not enough flour or egg
- Flipping before the first side has fully set
Q: Are these keto-friendly?
Not with all-purpose flour. To make them lower in carbs, substitute almond flour or another low-carb binder.
