Introduction
Cheddar Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters are a delicious and versatile dish, perfect for any time of the day. These fritters combine the mild, slightly sweet flavor of grated zucchini and sweet potato with the sharp, tangy bite of cheddar cheese. Green onions add a fresh, savory note that elevates the fritters to the next level. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are a great choice for a quick lunch, snack, or even as a side dish to complement a larger meal.
Not only are these fritters incredibly tasty, but they are also packed with nutrients. Zucchini and sweet potatoes are both rich in vitamins and fiber, making these fritters a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re serving them with a side salad, as part of a brunch spread, or even as an appetizer, these fritters are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and grated
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini and Sweet Potato
Grate the zucchini and sweet potato using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for ensuring your fritters hold together and become crispy rather than soggy. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sweet potato, cheddar cheese, and green onions. In a separate small bowl, whisk the eggs, then add them to the vegetable mixture. Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Fritters
Using your hands or a large spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into small patties, about 1/2-inch thick. You should be able to make around 10-12 fritters depending on size.
Step 4: Fry the Fritters
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fritters in the pan, leaving enough space between each one. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning. Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cheddar Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters immediately while they’re hot and crispy. These fritters pair well with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a simple dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a spicy mayo.
COOKING Notes:
- Moisture Control: Squeezing out the excess water from the grated zucchini is essential for crispy fritters. Don’t skip this step, or your fritters may turn out soggy.
- Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of sharp cheddar, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Baking Alternative: For a healthier, lower-fat version, bake the fritters instead of frying. Simply place them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the fritters as a side dish with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete meal.
- Add them to a breakfast or brunch spread with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
- Stack them high and top with a poached egg for a savory twist on a breakfast classic.
- Pair the fritters with a simple salad and a tangy dipping sauce for a light lunch.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.
- Freezing: Cooked fritters freeze well. After frying, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the fritters gluten-free, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix instead of regular flour.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
Cheddar Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy vegetables in a crispy, cheesy form. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the mild flavor of zucchini makes these fritters irresistible. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with bursts of freshness from the green onions and optional seasoning from garlic powder and smoked paprika. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, these fritters will become a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Print
Cheddar Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and grated
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini and Sweet Potato
Grate the zucchini and sweet potato using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial for ensuring your fritters hold together and become crispy rather than soggy. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, sweet potato, cheddar cheese, and green onions. In a separate small bowl, whisk the eggs, then add them to the vegetable mixture. Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Form the Fritters
Using your hands or a large spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into small patties, about 1/2-inch thick. You should be able to make around 10-12 fritters depending on size.
Step 4: Fry the Fritters
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fritters in the pan, leaving enough space between each one. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning. Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Cheddar Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters immediately while they’re hot and crispy. These fritters pair well with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a simple dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a spicy mayo.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sodium: 420mg
- Protein: 10g