These crispy zucchini fritters are a delicious way to enjoy the abundance of summer zucchini. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they feature a light and tender interior with a golden, crunchy exterior. Fresh dill, lemon zest, and scallions add a burst of flavor, while panko breadcrumbs give them irresistible crispiness. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a refreshing summer treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great use for surplus zucchini in the summer

• Crisp outside, tender inside

• Fresh, bright flavor from dill and lemon zest

• Simple and quick—ready in just 30 minutes

• Pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces

• Works as an appetizer, snack, or light meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound zucchini, about 3 medium

• 2 large eggs

• 1½ cups chopped scallions, about 1 bunch

• 3 garlic cloves, grated

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon sea salt

• 2¼ cups panko breadcrumbs, divided

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• Avocado oil, for frying

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Tartar sauce or creamy dill sauce, for serving

Directions

1. Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add zucchini, scallions, garlic, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

3. Add 1½ cups panko and the flour to the mixture. Fold until combined.

4. Place the remaining ¾ cup panko in a shallow dish for coating.

5. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

6. Use a ¼-cup measuring cup to scoop the zucchini mixture into 14–16 thin patties. Coat each patty in the reserved panko.

7. Add oil to the skillet and fry patties for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Cook in batches as needed.

8. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

9. Serve hot with tartar sauce or creamy dill sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap fresh dill for parsley or basil for a different herb flavor

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour for a gluten-free version

• Mix in fresh corn kernels for extra sweetness and texture

• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the batter for a cheesy twist

• Try baking instead of frying for a lighter version (note: less crispy)

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in an air fryer, toaster oven, or hot skillet until crisp.
Fritters can also be frozen after cooking—reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

Can I make zucchini fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I bake zucchini fritters instead of frying?

Yes, but they will be less crispy. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I prevent soggy fritters?

Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before mixing the batter.

What oil is best for frying zucchini fritters?

Avocado oil works well due to its high smoke point, but vegetable or canola oil also work.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond or oat flour for the all-purpose flour.

Can I freeze zucchini fritters before cooking?

It’s best to cook them first, then freeze. This helps preserve texture when reheating.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, yellow squash works just as well, or you can use a mix of both.

Why did my fritters fall apart?

The mixture may have been too wet or the patties too large. Keep them small and squeeze the zucchini well.

Can I add cheese to zucchini fritters?

Yes, Parmesan, feta, or cheddar can be added for extra flavor.

What sauces pair well with zucchini fritters?

Tzatziki, tartar sauce, creamy dill sauce, or even a garlic aioli are delicious options.

Conclusion

Zucchini fritters are a simple, flavorful way to celebrate the fresh flavors of summer. With their crisp exterior, tender middle, and vibrant herb and lemon notes, they make an excellent appetizer or side dish. Whether you fry, bake, or freeze them for later, these fritters are sure to become a seasonal favorite.