Zucchini meatballs with cheese

Zucchini Fritters with Cheese: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Treat

I invite you to discover a delicious and healthy recipe that combines the fresh flavors of zucchini with tasty cheese. Zucchini fritters with cheese are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, and they are ideal for warm summer days or to add a splash of color to autumn meals. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:
- 4 small zucchinis (about 600g)
- 120-150g cheese (such as Delaco cheese or your favorite cheese)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 3-4 tablespoons flour (plus extra for coating)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini
Start by peeling the zucchinis. Use a sharp knife to remove the thin skin, then grate them using a coarse grater. This step is crucial as the zucchinis will release water, and grating will give a fine texture to the fritters.

Step 2: Squeezing the Zucchini
After grating the zucchinis, take small amounts at a time and squeeze them well between your palms to remove excess water. This step will prevent the fritters from being too wet and ensure even frying.

Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients
Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a mortar or knife. Add the crushed garlic over the zucchini. Then, crack the two eggs and add them to the bowl, followed by the breadcrumbs and flour. Mix all the ingredients well to obtain a uniform mixture.

Step 4: Adding Herbs and Cheese
Wash the dill and parsley well, remove the stems, and chop them finely. Grate the cheese and add both the herbs and cheese to the fritter mixture. Make sure to mix well so that all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Seasoning
Add salt and pepper to taste. Try not to overdo it with the salt, as the cheese already contains salt, and the fritters should not be too salty.

Step 6: Frying the Fritters
In a deep pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom, then let it heat well. Meanwhile, form fritters from the mixture using a spoon or your hands. Coat each fritter in flour to achieve a crispy crust.

Step 7: Browning
When the oil is hot (be careful not to let it smoke), add the fritters to the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them over. Once they are done, remove them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 8: Serving
Allow the fritters to cool slightly before serving. They are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them plain, alongside a fresh salad, or with a mustard sauce for a savory contrast.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a healthier option, you can bake the fritters in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- You can also add other spices, such as paprika or herbs, for an extra flavor kick.
- Instead of breadcrumbs, you can use ground oats for a gluten-free version.

Nutritional Benefits:
Zucchini fritters are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. Zucchini is low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet. The cheese adds protein and calcium, contributing to bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
We do not recommend using frozen zucchini, as their texture will change and the fritters will not be as fluffy.
2. Can I substitute the cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella or feta cheese for a different flavor.
3. How can I store leftover fritters?
Store the fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.

Pairing Suggestions:
These fritters pair perfectly with a tomato and cucumber salad, tzatziki sauce, or even a glass of Greek yogurt. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can wonderfully complement the flavors of the dish.

In conclusion, zucchini fritters with cheese are an excellent choice for a healthy and tasty meal, full of flavor. So, don’t hesitate to try them and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!