Crispy, Cheesy, and Incredibly Simple!

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up your summer zucchini bounty, or just craving something crispy, savory, and incredibly satisfying, these Easy Zucchini Patties will become your new favorite. With a handful of pantry staples and less than 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a plate of golden-brown patties ready to enjoy as a light meal, side dish, or appetizer. This recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks but delicious enough to impress guests at your next brunch or potluck.

Whether you’re vegetarian, trying to get your kids to eat more vegetables, or simply love a good homemade fritter, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Patties

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.
Budget-friendly: Made with everyday ingredients you likely already have at home.
Family-approved: Crispy on the outside, cheesy and tender on the inside—kids and adults love them.
Versatile: Perfect as a snack, side, or main with a salad. Great hot or cold.
Vegetarian-friendly: No meat, but full of flavor and protein from the egg and Parmesan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this simple yet satisfying dish:

2 cups grated zucchini
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup finely chopped onion
1 large egg, beaten
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup bread crumbs
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe! Just a few kitchen basics:

Colander or sieve
Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula
Plate lined with paper towels

How to Make Easy Zucchini Patties

Follow these simple steps for perfect patties every time:

Prep the zucchini:
Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes—this helps draw out the moisture. Afterward, wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial to avoid soggy patties.
Mix the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, chopped onion, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, baking powder, and black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold its shape when pressed together.
Form the patties:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture and shape it into small patties. Flatten them slightly for even cooking.
Fry to golden perfection:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Drain and serve:
Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Patties

Drain well: The key to crispy patties is removing as much water from the zucchini as possible.
Use a nonstick skillet: Prevent sticking and reduce the amount of oil needed.
Parmesan matters: Go for freshly grated if possible—it melts better and has a more robust flavor.
Adjust texture: If your mix feels too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs. If too dry, a splash of milk or another beaten egg will help.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour.
Dairy-free: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese.
Add-ins: Mix in shredded carrots, chopped herbs (like parsley or dill), or even corn for extra color and flavor.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Cheese swap: Try feta or shredded mozzarella instead of Parmesan.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Zucchini patties store beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Layer patties with parchment paper in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep them crispy.

Food and Drink Pairings

These patties are as versatile as they are delicious. Try these pairings:

Serve with: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, marinara sauce, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Side options: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup.
Drinks: Try them with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a sparkling lemonade for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I know if my zucchini has enough moisture removed?

After salting and squeezing, the zucchini should be significantly reduced in volume and feel relatively dry to the touch. If unsure, repeat the squeezing step.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

You can prep the mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a quick stir before forming the patties.

What’s the best way to grate zucchini?

Use the large holes on a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment for faster prep.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Zucchini Patties are a must-try—simple, savory, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers big on flavor and texture with minimal effort. It’s a great way to enjoy more veggies, reduce food waste, and indulge your crispy cravings all at once.

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