Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and patted dry
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for cooking
For the Lemon Herb Yogurt Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a colander set over the sink or a bowl. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and toss well. Let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Press down on the zucchini with a spatula or spoon to release liquid, then transfer to a clean dish towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Smash the chickpeas: Place the drained chickpeas in a large bowl and use a fork or potato masher to smash them until mostly broken down but still slightly chunky.
- Mix fritter ingredients: Add the drained zucchini, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped basil, chopped parsley, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl with chickpeas. Stir until everything is well combined, forming a thick batter.
- Form the fritters: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a 3-inch wide patty.
- Cook the fritters: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 3 to 4 fritters at a time to the skillet, making sure they don’t touch. Fry each side for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels if needed. Repeat with remaining fritters.
- Make the lemon herb yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped basil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and kosher salt to taste. Stir well until smooth and combined.
- Serve: Serve the fritters warm accompanied by the lemon herb yogurt sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Notes
- Removing excess moisture from the zucchini is essential to get crispy fritters and avoid sogginess.
- Use a cast iron or nonstick skillet to ensure even browning and prevent sticking.
- You can substitute the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
- These fritters can be reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian