These crispy fritters are packed with veggies and oozing with cheesy goodness. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal.
Ingredients:
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or chives)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Combine Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, bread crumbs, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
- Combine All Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Add Veggies: Gently fold the vegetables into the batter.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If using, stir in the chopped herbs, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat Oil: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Form Fritters: Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, forming small patties.
- Cook Fritters: Cook the fritters for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain: Remove the fritters from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the fritters warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or sour cream.
Tips:
- To prevent the zucchini from releasing too much water, you can salt it and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before squeezing out the excess moisture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to these fritters, such as spinach, corn, or mushrooms.
- For extra flavor, try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta.
- You can bake these fritters instead of frying them by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Cheesy Vegetable Fritters!