Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki

Name: Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, grated; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; Oil for frying; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, finely grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp lemon juice; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki during the warmer months when zucchini is fresh and vibrant. The combination of crispy fritters and the cool, creamy tzatziki creates a perfect harmony of flavors that’s always a hit at gatherings. These fritters are incredibly versatile, serving as a delightful appetizer or a light meal paired with a simple salad. The secret lies in squeezing out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to ensure a perfect crispiness. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this tasty recipe!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:22:19.868Z

I’ve experimented with various veggie fritters, but these zucchini fritters came out as my favorite! Each bite is light, crispy, and packed with wholesome flavors. One crucial tip I discovered is to not skip the step of salting the shredded zucchini. It draws out excess water, resulting in a better texture when fried. This small step transforms the fritters and helps achieve that satisfying crunch.

Preparing tzatziki can seem daunting, but it’s easier than it looks. I love using garlic and fresh dill for a punch of flavor. After some trial and error, I found that letting the tzatziki sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s the perfect dipping sauce that brings these fritters to life!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior
Cool and creamy tzatziki that complements the fritters perfectly
Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings

Perfecting the Fritters

The key to achieving the perfect zucchini fritters lies in the water content of the zucchini. After grating, don’t skip the step of squeezing out the moisture; this prevents sogginess and ensures a delightful crispiness. I recommend using a clean dish towel or cheesecloth to speed up the process. You want the zucchini to be as dry as possible before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Additionally, when frying the fritters, the oil temperature is crucial. Aim for medium heat to allow the fritters to cook through without burning. A good visual cue is to drop a small piece of batter into the oil; it should bubble vigorously. If it browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly to maintain even cooking.

Crafting the Tzatziki

The tzatziki sauce elevates these fritters and provides a refreshing counterbalance to their warmth. Make sure to drain the grated cucumber thoroughly to keep the tzatziki from becoming too watery. I find pressing the cucumber against a fine mesh strainer or using the same cloth method as for the zucchini works best. It not only enhances the texture but allows the flavors to shine through.

For the best flavor, prepare the tzatziki at least 30 minutes before serving. This marination time allows the garlic and dill to infuse into the creamy yogurt, creating a robust dip. If you're short on time, you can mix all the ingredients without resting, but keep in mind, the flavors will develop more fully with a bit of patience.

Ingredients for Zucchini Fritters

For the Fritters

2 medium zucchinis, grated
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
Oil for frying

For the Tzatziki

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, finely grated and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Place the grated zucchini in a clean cloth and squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial for crispy fritters.

Mix Fritter Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, egg, Parmesan, green onions, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.

Fry the Fritters

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the fritter mixture into the hot oil and flatten slightly. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Prepare Tzatziki

In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Serve

Serve the warm fritters with the chilled tzatziki for dipping. Enjoy!

Enjoy Your Meal

Pro Tips

For an even zestier tzatziki, add a bit more lemon juice or fresh mint. You can also bake the fritters instead of frying them for a healthier option—just spray them with oil to help them crisp up.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider replacing all-purpose flour with a blend of almond flour and cornstarch. This combination binds well and retains a nice crunch while also being friendly for those with dietary restrictions. Just remember to adjust the quantity slightly, as almond flour behaves differently than traditional flour.

For a dairy-free version, swap out the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast, which adds a nutty flavor and a hint of creaminess without dairy. These modifications will keep the essence of the fritters while catering to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

You can prepare the fritters ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a couple of days before frying. Lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just bring them to room temperature before frying for even cooking.

If you have leftover fritters, they can be reheated in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them as that will make them soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing them; lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! You can substitute or add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to regain crispiness.

→ Can I make the fritters in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the mixture ahead of time and fry them fresh when ready to serve.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.