These Cheesy Vegetable Fritters are the ultimate comfort food that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the indulgence of melted cheese. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fritters make for a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish. Packed with flavor, they’re easy to prepare and customizable to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly meal or a vegetarian option for your next gathering, these fritters will surely steal the spotlight.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium-sized zucchini)
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crispness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Grate the zucchini and carrot. Squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Finely chop the bell pepper and onion.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, carrot, bell pepper, onion, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Add in the eggs, flour, breadcrumbs (if using), garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Form the Fritters: Using your hands or a spoon, form small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter) from the mixture. Press down gently to flatten them into thick fritters.
- Cook the Fritters: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fritters in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to a main meal.
Tips:
- For a healthier version, bake the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying.
- Add more vegetables like corn, peas, or spinach to customize the fritters to your liking.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or feta for a unique twist.
Enjoy these cheesy vegetable fritters as a snack or part of your meal—they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!