Crispy Chickpea Zucchini Fritters
Crispy Chickpea Zucchini Fritters are a flavorful, healthy snack or meal featuring crunchy exteriors and soft, savory interiors. Combining the earthiness of chickpeas with fresh zucchini, these fritters are easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 fritters 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Vegan (with flax egg)
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and moisture squeezed out
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup flour or gluten-free alternative (such as chickpea or almond flour)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg or 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
Optional Variations
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
- 1/4 cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese (for cheesy option)
- 1/4 cup grated carrots or corn kernels (extra veggies)
- Prepare the vegetables: Grate the zucchini into a bowl and gently squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent soggy fritters.
- Mash the chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then mash them with a fork or potato masher until a coarse paste forms with some texture remaining.
- Combine all ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the mashed chickpeas, grated zucchini, finely chopped onion, fresh herbs, cumin, paprika, salt, egg or flax egg, and flour until well incorporated.
- Shape the fritters: Form the mixture into small patties about 2 to 3 inches in diameter, pressing gently so they hold together but remain light.
- Fry until golden: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked fritters onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your choice of garnishes and sides.
Notes
- Drain zucchini well to keep fritters crisp rather than soggy.
- Don’t over-mix the batter to maintain a nice texture; overworking makes fritters dense.
- Maintain proper oil temperature so fritters crisp without burning.
- For a lighter version, bake fritters at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill to brighten flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 fritters
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: chickpea fritters, zucchini fritters, gluten free, vegan fritters, healthy snacks, Mediterranean appetizers