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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fritters Recipe with Easy Tangy Lemon Aioli

crispy parmesan zucchini fritters - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini fritters feature a golden crust and tender center, paired perfectly with a bright, tangy lemon aioli. A quick and easy snack or light dinner that’s packed with flavor and perfect for casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis (about 600g / 1.3 lbs), grated
  • 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 34 tablespoons olive oil for frying
  • For the lemon aioli:
  • ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced or grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim the ends off the zucchinis. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor into a large bowl (about 5 minutes).
  2. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Twist and squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible to avoid soggy fritters.
  3. In the large bowl, combine the dried zucchini with grated Parmesan, eggs, flour, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the mixture is sticky but holds together (about 5 minutes).
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to prepare the lemon aioli. Chill until ready to serve.
  5. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2 minutes).
  6. Scoop a portion of the zucchini mixture with a tablespoon or your hands and flatten into a patty about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. Fry in batches, 3-4 fritters at a time, without crowding the pan.
  7. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. The fritters should feel firm to the touch when ready.
  8. Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F / 95°C) if needed while finishing the rest.
  9. Serve the fritters hot with a generous dollop of tangy lemon aioli on the side. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Drain zucchini thoroughly to avoid soggy fritters. Use fresh Parmesan for best crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Let fritters rest before flipping to prevent breaking. Lemon aioli can be made ahead and chilled. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond flour. For vegan aioli, use vegan mayonnaise and substitute eggs with flax eggs.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, Parmesan fritters, lemon aioli, crispy fritters, vegetarian snack, easy fritters, summer recipe