Zucchini meatballs with sour cream and dill sauce

Zucchini Fritters with Sour Cream and Dill Sauce

If you're looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious recipe, you've come to the right place! Zucchini fritters are a wonderful choice for a light lunch or a savory dinner. These fritters are not only tasty but also a great way to add vegetables to your meals. Plus, the sour cream sauce with dill and garlic complements them perfectly, providing a refreshing touch. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the fritters:
- 200 g zucchini (about 2-3 medium zucchinis)
- 1 egg
- 50 g grated parmesan (about a handful)
- A handful of chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying

For the sour cream sauce:
- 100 ml sour cream
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- Dill (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Zucchini: Start by partially peeling the zucchini, leaving the skin intact if it’s not bruised. The skin adds not only color but also a pleasant texture. Grate the zucchini on a fine grater and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them and let them sit for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps to eliminate excess water from the zucchini, making the fritters less watery.

2. Squeezing the Zucchini: After half an hour, take the zucchini and squeeze them well in your hands to remove as much water as possible. This step is crucial for achieving firm and well-bound fritters.

3. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the squeezed zucchini, egg, grated parmesan, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Mix the composition well until it is homogeneous. Here you can add a little breadcrumbs, but don’t overdo it to avoid drying out the mixture too much.

4. Forming the Fritters: Wet your hands with water to prevent the dough from sticking. Form small fritters the size of a golf ball. Then, roll them in breadcrumbs to get a crispy crust when frying.

5. Frying: In a deep pan, heat the oil over low heat. Add the fritters to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. It is important to fry them on low heat to ensure they cook evenly inside.

6. Preparing the Sour Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the yogurt, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust the sauce's taste to your preferences. This sauce adds a creaminess and freshness to the fritters and is a perfect accompaniment.

7. Serving: Serve the fritters hot alongside the sour cream sauce. You can garnish the plate with a few sprigs of fresh dill for a more attractive look. These fritters are delicious and warm, but can also be enjoyed cold, making them ideal for picnics or quick snacks.

Practical Tips

- Fresh Zucchini: Choose young zucchinis with smooth skin and no spots. They will have a better taste and a more pleasant texture.
- Breadcrumbs: If you want to add a crunchy note, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Variations: You can add other herbs, such as basil or oregano, or even a bit of minced garlic for extra flavor. Also, instead of parmesan, you can try goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Baking: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the fritters in the oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Nutritional Benefits

Zucchini is a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low calorie content. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Eating zucchini can help maintain skin health and support the immune system. Additionally, parmesan provides essential proteins and calcium, while dill is known for its antioxidant properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use courgettes instead of zucchini?
Yes, courgettes can be an excellent alternative, but make sure to grate and squeeze them well, just like zucchini.

- Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, you can freeze the raw or fried fritters. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

- What other sauces can I use?
Instead of the sour cream sauce, you can try tahini sauce or a yogurt sauce with mint for a refreshing touch.

Delicious Combinations

These zucchini fritters pair perfectly with a tomato and cucumber salad or a side of basmati rice. Also, a cold drink, such as mint tea or fresh citrus juice, will complement the meal perfectly.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! Zucchini fritters with sour cream and dill are not just a culinary experience but also a way to bring joy and health to your table. Happy cooking!