Zucchini Fritters with Sour Cream

These zucchini fritters topped with sour cream and chives are a quick favorite every time I need something light yet comforting. They have become my go-to solution for a flavorful lunch and have stolen the show more than once when served as a side for family dinners. I always find myself coming back to this recipe because it offers crisp texture, savory richness, and effortless charm with every bite.

These fritters always disappear fast on my table. I first started making them as a way to use garden zucchini and now my friends ask for the recipe whenever I bring them to gatherings.

Ingredients

• Zucchini: provides moistness and tender bite When shopping look for firm squash with shiny skin and no soft spots
• Eggs: bind everything together and give richness Choose large eggs with firm yolks for best results
• All purpose flour: creates structure and crisp edges Try to use fresh flour for best texture
• Parmesan cheese: brings depth and umami Go with a block and grate it yourself for fresher flavor
• Garlic: fresh cloves add subtle punch and aroma Look for heavy bulbs with tight skin
• Sour cream: adds cool tangy contrast Full fat works best for creaminess
• Chives: give a fresh onion hint and striking green color Snip them fresh for vibrancy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the zucchini:

Place grated zucchini into a colander and sprinkle lightly with salt Let it sit 10 to 15 minutes to draw out extra moisture then squeeze zucchini in a clean kitchen towel until very dry This stops soggy fritters and gives a lovely crispness

Mix the batter:

Combine the squeezed zucchini with flour Parmesan cheese black pepper and garlic powder in a large bowl Add the beaten eggs and mix until everything is evenly incorporated The mixture should just hold together do not make it too wet

Shape and fry the fritters:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Use a tablespoon to scoop batter into the hot pan then flatten gently with the spoon to form discs Fry each fritter 2 to 3 minutes per side until deep golden and crispy Be careful not to crowd the pan

Prepare the sour cream topping:

While the fritters cook combine sour cream with a little finely minced garlic then season with salt and pepper Mix well so the garlic infuses the cream

Assemble and serve:

Transfer fritters to a serving platter Top each with a dollop of the garlic sour cream Finish with snipped chives right before serving for brightness and color

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I absolutely love the Parmesan in this dish Its nutty richness works so well with crisp zucchini My son always sneaks hot fritters right out of the skillet and watching him enjoy them is my favorite kitchen memory

Storage Tips

Keep leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge They will stay fresh for up to three days and crisp up when reheated in a hot skillet Oven reheating also restores their texture Air frying is another quick trick to bring back their crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch out Parmesan for other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even sharp cheddar If you want a gluten free version swap the regular flour for chickpea or rice flour Greek yogurt can trade in for the sour cream and thinly sliced scallions work in place of chives

Serving Suggestions

Serve zucchini fritters as an appetizer topped with more fresh herbs or beside grilled chicken for a light summer dinner They are also wonderful tucked inside a pita with salad greens and extra sour cream for a tasty vegetarian wrap

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Cultural or Historical Context

Fritters in various forms are beloved across many cuisines I was inspired by Mediterranean recipes where fried vegetable cakes are a common way to make the most of seasonal produce Zucchini fritters especially shine in summer when gardens are overflowing

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do you prevent zucchini fritters from becoming soggy?

To keep them crisp, always salt and drain the grated zucchini to remove excess moisture before mixing with other ingredients. Squeezing out as much liquid as possible is key.

→ Can you bake zucchini fritters instead of frying?

Yes! Place scoops of the batter on a lined baking tray and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden, flipping halfway through for even browning.

→ What cheese works best in zucchini fritters?

Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty depth and helps with crisping, but feta or cheddar can also be used for different flavor profiles.

→ Can zucchini fritters be made ahead?

Absolutely. Cool cooked fritters on a wire rack, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat in a hot skillet or oven to restore crispness.

→ What pairs well with zucchini fritters?

These fritters are delicious with tangy sour cream, fresh chives, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.