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Easy Italian Zucchini Fritters: A Delightful Snack or Side Dish

Italian cuisine is renowned for its fresh flavours and simple, rustic dishes. Among the myriad of recipes that showcase this culinary tradition, zucchini fritters stand out as a delightful and versatile option. Known as “frittelle di zucchine” in Italy, these fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a popular choice for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Here’s a simple recipe to create your own easy Italian zucchini fritters that are sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these delicious fritters, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized zucchinis
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 100g (about 1 cup) all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 50g (about 1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2-3 spring onions, finely chopped
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Begin by washing the zucchinis thoroughly. Grate them using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle with 1 tsp of sea salt. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving crispy fritters.

2. Drain the Liquid: After the resting period, twist the towel to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini. This step is vital, as too much moisture will make the fritters soggy.

3. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with 100g of flour, 1 large egg, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spring onions, and chopped basil (if using). Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. The batter should be thick enough to hold together but still slightly wet.

4. Heat the Oil: In a large non-stick frying pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to coat the base of the pan without deep frying the fritters.

5. Cook the Fritters: Spoon dollops of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to fry them in batches. Cook each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then carefully flip them over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Serve them warm, perhaps with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or a simple tomato sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Success

• Additions and Variations: Feel free to customise your fritters by adding grated carrots or courgettes, or even spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick.
• Make Ahead: The fritter batter can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for a few hours, making it a convenient option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
• Storing Leftovers: Although best enjoyed fresh, leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Easy Italian zucchini fritters are not only a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet but also a delicious treat that can bring a touch of Italian flair to your table. Whether served as a snack, a side dish, or a light vegetarian meal, these fritters are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner Italian chef, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this scrumptious dish! Buon Appetito!

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