These zucchini and polenta fritters are a crispy, savory delight. With the combination of zucchini, ricotta, fresh herbs, and pine nuts, these fritters are held together by fluffy polenta and coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs. They are deep-fried to golden perfection and served with a tangy garlic yogurt, sweet chutney, and a dusting of parmesan. Perfect as a snack or a side dish!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the fritters

• 1 large zucchini (or 2 small), grated

• 125g fine/quick polenta

• 125g ricotta

• 60g grated edam cheese

• 50g parmesan, finely grated

• 50g toasted pine nuts

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill

• 4 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 3 cloves garlic, grated

• 1 size 7 egg

• 100g plain flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 60ml whole milk

• Sea salt

• Cracked black pepper

• 100g panko breadcrumbs

• Vegetable or canola oil for frying

To serve

• 300g Greek yogurt

• 1 lemon, zest only

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 5 tbsp sweet peach chutney

• 20g parmesan, finely grated

• Fresh dill leaves

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine all fritter ingredients except the breadcrumbs and oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Prepare two oven trays: one lined with baking paper and the other filled with panko crumbs. Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the panko crumbs. Coat in breadcrumbs and shape into small logs. Place the fritters on the lined tray.

3. Heat oil in a large saucepan (about 5 cm deep). Once the oil reaches 180°C, gently drop the fritters into the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown. Drain on a tray lined with paper towels.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon zest, and minced garlic.

5. To serve, smear the yogurt mixture onto a platter, drizzle with chutney, and top with fritters, parmesan, and fresh dill. Season to taste.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving (varies based on size)

• Protein: 8g

• Fat: 16g

• Carbs: 22g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 4g

Why Zucchini and Polenta Fritters Work

The combination of zucchini and polenta in these fritters is a match made in heaven. Zucchini adds moisture and freshness, while polenta provides a slight graininess and fluffiness that holds the fritters together beautifully. Ricotta and edam cheese contribute richness and creaminess, ensuring that each bite is indulgent yet balanced. The mix of fresh herbs not only brightens the fritters but also adds layers of flavor that complement the mild zucchini and the richness of the cheese.

The crunchy panko breadcrumbs give the fritters their irresistible crisp exterior, making every bite satisfyingly crunchy. The deep-frying process locks in the flavors and creates a golden, crispy shell, while the inside remains soft and flavorful. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these fritters are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

The Flavor Profile: Fresh, Savory, and Tangy

The flavor profile of these fritters is a delightful balance of fresh, savory, and tangy elements. The zucchini provides a mild, slightly sweet base, while the combination of ricotta, edam cheese, and parmesan adds creamy, cheesy richness. The toasted pine nuts contribute a nutty crunch, and the fresh herbs—mint, dill, and parsley—lend a refreshing brightness to the dish.

The garlic yogurt sauce adds an extra layer of flavor with its tanginess, which complements the richness of the fritters. The lemon zest in the yogurt sauce enhances the freshness and brings out the herbal notes in the fritters. The sweet peach chutney provides a contrasting sweetness, balancing the savory fritters with a touch of fruity warmth.

The crispy, golden exterior of the fritters and the soft, flavorful interior make each bite a satisfying contrast of textures, while the tangy yogurt sauce and sweet chutney elevate the overall experience.

The Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini and Polenta Fritters

These zucchini and polenta fritters are not only delicious but also relatively balanced in terms of nutrients. The zucchini provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium. Ricotta and cheese contribute calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle repair. Polenta adds carbohydrates, providing a source of energy, while the fresh herbs offer antioxidants and additional vitamins.

The pine nuts contribute healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. However, because the fritters are deep-fried, they do contain some fat, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation as a treat. The yogurt sauce provides a nice dose of protein and calcium as well, while the sweet chutney adds a bit of sweetness without being overwhelming.

Each fritter contains around 250 calories, making them a moderate-calorie snack or side dish that can be paired with lighter meals to create a well-rounded meal. With 8 grams of protein per serving, they also offer a decent amount of protein, making them a filling option for those looking to maintain muscle or keep hunger at bay.

How to Serve Zucchini and Polenta Fritters

These fritters are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion:

1. As an Appetizer: Serve these fritters as a delicious appetizer at your next dinner party or gathering. Their crisp texture and rich flavors will impress guests, especially when paired with the tangy yogurt sauce and sweet chutney.

2. With Soup: Zucchini and Polenta Fritters make a perfect side dish for a bowl of soup. Pair them with a light vegetable soup or a hearty tomato soup to add some texture and flavor to the meal.

3. As a Side Dish: Serve these fritters alongside roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or a fresh salad. They make a great complement to a variety of main dishes, adding both flavor and texture.

4. For Brunch: These fritters are a great addition to any brunch spread. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh avocado toast for a satisfying meal.

5. As a Snack: On their own, these fritters are a satisfying snack. Their crispy exterior and cheesy interior make them the perfect treat when you’re craving something savory and filling.

Tips for Perfecting Zucchini and Polenta Fritters

1. Grate the Zucchini Well: To avoid excess moisture in the fritters, it’s important to grate the zucchini finely and then squeeze out any excess water. This will help the fritters hold together better and prevent them from becoming soggy.

2. Don’t Skip the Panko Breadcrumbs: The panko breadcrumbs are essential for getting that crispy, golden exterior. They create a light, crunchy coating that adds a satisfying texture to each bite. Be sure to coat the fritters thoroughly before frying.

3. Fry in Batches: To ensure the fritters cook evenly and don’t stick together, fry them in small batches. This will help them achieve the perfect golden brown color and crispy texture.

4. Drain on Paper Towels: After frying, place the fritters on paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep them crispy and prevent them from becoming greasy.

5. Serve Immediately: These fritters are best served fresh and hot. The crispy exterior and soft interior are at their peak right after frying, so try to serve them as soon as possible for the best experience.

Conclusion: A Crispy, Savory Delight

Zucchini and Polenta Fritters are a savory, satisfying dish that combines the freshness of zucchini, the richness of ricotta and cheese, and the delightful crunch of pine nuts and panko breadcrumbs. Deep-fried to golden perfection and served with a tangy garlic yogurt and sweet chutney, these fritters are a perfect snack, side dish, or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting treat, these fritters will leave everyone impressed. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, they’re a must-try for any savory lover!