Traditional Italian Zucchini Fritter Recipes

When it comes to traditional Italian cuisine, zucchini fritters, known as "frittelle di zucchine," offer a delicious and versatile dish that showcases the fresh flavors of the season. These crispy morsels make for a perfect appetizer, side dish, or snack. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that embodies the essence of Italian cooking.

Below are some traditional Italian zucchini fritter recipes that will bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen.

Classic Zucchini Fritters

This classic recipe serves as a great base for your zucchini fritters, allowing the natural flavor of the zucchini to shine.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture.
  2. After resting, squeeze the zucchinis in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess water.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, flour, eggs, cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
  5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Herbed Zucchini Fritters

This variation adds a fresh herby flavor, making these fritters even more delightful.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1 cup chickpea flour (farina di ceci)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup fresh herbs (parsley, basil, dill) chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander with a sprinkle of salt. Allow sitting for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. After squeezing out the excess water, mix the zucchini with chickpea flour, eggs, feta cheese, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet and flatten slightly.
  4. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Spicy Zucchini Fritters

Add a bit of a kick to your zucchini fritters with this spicy twist, perfect for those who enjoy some heat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 1 small red chili, finely chopped (or crushed red pepper flakes to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander with a sprinkle of salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to release moisture.
  2. Once ready, squeeze out the water and mix the zucchini with flour, eggs, Pecorino cheese, chopped chili, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Drop the mixture into the skillet, flattening slightly to form fritters.
  4. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Whether you prefer the classic version, a herbed variety, or a spicy kick, traditional Italian zucchini fritters are sure to delight your taste buds