Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli

Zucchini's versatility in the kitchen is one of the key reasons it has captured the hearts of home cooks and professional chefs alike. This vegetable can be spiralized, grilled, roasted, or, as in this case, transformed into fritters. Fritters are a favorite among both kids and adults, thanks to their crispy texture and the ability to customize flavors based on personal preferences. The appeal of zucchini fritters lies not only in their taste but also in their ease of preparation. They can be made quickly, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli

Discover the irresistible joy of zesty zucchini fritters paired with creamy garlic aioli! These crispy bites combine fresh zucchini with aromatic herbs and a touch of cheese, creating a deliciously satisfying dish that's perfect for any meal. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer a nutritious twist, being low in calories and packed with vitamins. Elevate your next gathering with this gourmet treat that's sure to impress everyone. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures!

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Ingredients

For the Zucchini Fritters:

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, beaten

2 green onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Olive oil, for frying

For the Garlic Aioli:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1-2 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to suit your garlic preference)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini:

- Begin by grating the zucchinis with a box grater or a food processor.

- Place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, then gather the edges and squeeze firmly to extract as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy fritters.

- Transfer the drained zucchini into a large mixing bowl.

Make the Fritter Batter:

- Sprinkle the teaspoon of salt over the zucchini and let it sit for approximately 10 minutes; this helps to draw out additional moisture.

- After 10 minutes, mix the zucchini well and add the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano to the bowl.

- Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined. The batter should be cohesive enough to hold together when shaped into patties.

Cook the Fritters:

- Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding enough olive oil to cover the bottom (around 2-3 tablespoons should suffice).

- Once the oil is shimmering, use heaping tablespoons of the zucchini batter to form small patties, pressing them lightly to flatten them slightly.

- Cook each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, cooking in batches if necessary. Add more oil as needed between batches for optimal frying.

Prepare the Garlic Aioli:

- While the fritters are frying, prepare the garlic aioli. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, a dash of salt and pepper, and Dijon mustard if you choose to include it. Mix until smooth and creamy, tasting to adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Serve:

- Once the fritters are cooked, carefully remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

- Serve the hot, crispy zucchini fritters immediately, accompanied by a generous dollop of garlic aioli for dipping.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4 (makes approximately 10 fritters)

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the fritters on a wooden platter, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves and a wedge of lemon for an extra pop of color and flavor!