Description
These Zucchini Polenta Fritters are a delicious and crispy vegetarian appetizer, combining grated zucchini and creamy cooked polenta with Parmesan cheese and herbs. Pan-fried until golden brown, they make a perfect snack or side dish, capturing a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile that’s light and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Mixture
- 2 medium zucchini (grated)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)
Fritter Batter
- 1 cup cooked polenta (cooled)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Then, using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, squeeze out as much liquid as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, cooled cooked polenta, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, egg, chopped green onions, minced garlic, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and form a cohesive batter.
- Heat the Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil coats the surface evenly for frying.
- Form and Fry the Fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter per fritter and shape them into small patties. Carefully place them in the hot skillet in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 3–4 minutes or until the fritters turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fritters from the skillet and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cooked polenta is firm and chilled before mixing to help the fritters hold together.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- To make a lighter version, bake the fritters at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
