Print

Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fritters with Easy Homemade Lemon Tzatziki Dip

Parmesan zucchini fritters - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini fritters paired with a zesty lemon tzatziki dip offer a perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and bright flavors. Quick and easy to make, they are ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis (about 600g / 1.3 lbs), grated and squeezed dry
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g / 1.75 oz)
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (40g / 1.4 oz) – can substitute with almond flour for gluten-free
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
  • For the lemon tzatziki dip:
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (240g / 8.5 oz)
  • ½ small cucumber, finely grated and squeezed dry
  • Juice and finely grated zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor into a large bowl. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  2. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring firmly to remove most moisture.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, grated Parmesan, flour, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until the batter holds together but is slightly loose.
  4. Prepare the tzatziki dip by grating the cucumber and squeezing out excess water. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
  5. Heat about 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  6. Scoop about 2 tablespoons (30g / 1 oz) of batter per fritter and flatten slightly in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  7. Transfer fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with the chilled lemon tzatziki.

Notes

Removing excess moisture from zucchini and cucumber is crucial for crispy fritters and a non-watery dip. Use medium heat to avoid burning outside while undercooking inside. Do not overcrowd the pan. Rest batter 5-10 minutes before frying for better binding. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond flour. For vegan, use flax egg and nutritional yeast instead of egg and Parmesan.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, Parmesan fritters, lemon tzatziki, easy fritters, homemade dip, vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free option, quick weeknight meal