Zucchini Patties

Zucchini patties became my go-to recipe one afternoon when I was staring down a basket of garden-fresh zucchinis and craving something savory but simple. I didn’t feel like baking or making a big mess, so I grated the zucchini, mixed it with cheese, herbs, and a few pantry staples, and pan-fried it into golden patties. What started as a spontaneous creation quickly became a family favorite, especially when paired with a creamy dipping sauce.

I love how these zucchini patties are crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and packed with flavor in every bite. They’re perfect for using up extra produce and they come together quickly, which makes them great for busy evenings or when I want a snack that’s both satisfying and light. They’re endlessly versatile and every time I make them, I wonder why I don’t do it more often.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Zucchini – The base of the patties that gives moisture and subtle flavor.
• Egg – Binds all the ingredients together so the patties hold their shape.
• Breadcrumbs – Help absorb moisture and create a firm, crispy texture.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness and a rich umami depth.
• Garlic – Boosts the savory flavor and aroma.
• Green onion – Gives a mild oniony bite and extra freshness.
• Salt – Brings out the natural flavor of the zucchini.
• Black pepper – Adds a bit of kick to balance the freshness.
• Olive oil – Used for frying the patties to golden perfection.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Box Grater – I use this to finely shred the zucchini quickly and evenly.
• Cheesecloth or Clean Towel – Essential for squeezing out the water from the zucchini.
• Mixing Bowl – For combining all the ingredients easily.
• Spoon or Scoop – Helps shape uniform patties.
• Nonstick Skillet – My go-to for frying the patties with minimal oil.
• Spatula – Makes flipping easy and keeps the patties intact.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by grating the zucchini and placing it in a clean kitchen towel then I squeeze out as much liquid as possible so the patties don’t turn out soggy.

Step 2:

In a mixing bowl I combine the shredded zucchini with egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped green onion, salt, and black pepper then I stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3:

Using a spoon or my hands I form the mixture into small round patties about 2 to 3 inches wide and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4:

I heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat then I place the patties in the pan without crowding them and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

Step 5:

Once cooked I transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil before serving.

Tips

If the mixture feels too wet I add a little extra breadcrumbs until it holds together. For a cheesy twist I’ve added shredded cheddar or feta before and both are delicious. These also bake well if I’m trying to cut down on oil—I just spray them lightly and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. They reheat nicely in the oven or air fryer so I like making a double batch.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these zucchini patties with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a zesty dipping sauce. They’re perfect as a side dish with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main with a fresh salad. Sometimes I even use them as a base for poached eggs at brunch or tucked into wraps for an easy lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Zucchini Patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the batter ahead or cook the patties and reheat them in the oven or air fryer later.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

You can try almond flour, crushed crackers, or oat flour for different textures.

How do I keep my Zucchini Patties from being soggy?

Make sure to squeeze out all the excess water from the shredded zucchini before mixing.

Can I freeze Zucchini Patties?

Absolutely. Cook them first, let them cool, then freeze in a single layer before storing in a bag or container.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these crispy zucchini patties and fall in love with how easy and versatile they are! Whether you serve them as a side dish, snack, or light meal, they always hit the spot. Let me know how you customize yours and save this one for your next zucchini-packed day.

Happy Cooking!

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