Zucchini Corn Fritters are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with the fresh flavors of summer vegetables. Combining grated zucchini and sweet corn with simple seasonings, these fritters make a perfect appetizer, light lunch, or side dish. They’re easy to prepare and pan-fried until golden brown, delivering irresistible texture and taste in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Seasonal and Fresh: A delicious way to use up garden-fresh zucchini and summer corn.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfectly Crispy: Golden on the outside and tender inside without being greasy.
- Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with dipping sauces, or as a sandwich filler.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
- Prep the Zucchini: Place grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible. This prevents soggy fritters.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, corn, eggs, flour, Parmesan (if using), green onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Heat the Oil: Add about 12 tablespoons of oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Fritters: Scoop 23 tablespoons of batter per fritter into the skillet, flattening slightly with a spatula. Cook for 34 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 810 fritters
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Fritters: Add shredded cheddar or feta for extra flavor.
- Spicy Option: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free blend or chickpea flour.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best crispiness. Microwave only if in a pinch.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 1520 minutes.
FAQs
How do I keep fritters crispy?
Squeeze out all the moisture from the zucchini and cook over medium-high heat without overcrowding the pan.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best cooked fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and mix just before frying.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
Sour cream, tzatziki, chipotle mayo, or ranch dressing all complement the flavors.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 2025 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
Are these fritters vegan?
Replace eggs with flax eggs and skip the cheese to make them fully plant-based.
Can I use frozen corn?
Absolutely—just thaw and pat dry before adding to the mix.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is soft and adds color and nutrients. Just wash and grate it.
How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden brown on both sides and firm to the touch.
Can I use canned corn?
Yes, but drain and dry well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
What can I serve with zucchini corn fritters?
They pair well with salads, grilled meats, or as part of a brunch spread.
Conclusion
Zucchini Corn Fritters are a flavorful, crispy, and easy way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Whether you serve them as a light meal, appetizer, or snack, they deliver satisfying texture and taste with every bite. Simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these zucchini corn fritters are packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese—perfect as a side dish or light vegetarian meal.
- Place grated zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
- In a large bowl, mix zucchini, corn, green onions, garlic, flour, Parmesan, pepper, paprika, baking powder, eggs, and parsley until well combined.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet and flatten slightly.
- Cook for 34 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat with remaining batter. Serve warm with sour cream, yogurt, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftover fritters can be reheated in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fritter
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg