Crispy Greek Zucchini Fritters: A Mediterranean Delight!

There’s something special about Greek zucchini fritters, or Kolokithokeftedes, that makes them a favorite in Mediterranean cuisine.

These crispy, golden bites are packed with fresh zucchini, aromatic herbs, and crumbled feta cheese, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light meal, they bring the vibrant taste of Greece to your table.

If you’ve ever visited a Greek taverna, you may have encountered these irresistible fritters on the menu.

Light yet satisfying, they pair beautifully with a dollop of creamy tzatziki or a simple squeeze of lemon juice.

Best of all, they’re easy to make at home with everyday ingredients, making them a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.

Introduction to Greek Zucchini Fritters

Kolokithokeftedes, the traditional name for Greek zucchini fritters, is a staple of Greek mezze platters.

The name itself translates to “zucchini meatballs,” though these fritters are entirely vegetarian.

They originate from the sun-soaked islands of Greece, where fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheeses come together in simple yet flavorful dishes.

What makes these fritters so unique is their combination of textures.

The outside is perfectly crispy, thanks to a light batter and careful frying, while the inside remains tender and bursting with the freshness of zucchini, mint, dill, and creamy feta.

Each bite offers a taste of the Mediterranean, making them a beloved dish in Greek households and restaurants alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek zucchini fritter recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean flavors or is looking for a fresh way to enjoy zucchini.

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – You don’t need fancy ingredients to make these fritters. Just a handful of fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese come together to create something truly special.
• Crispy Yet Tender – The key to a great fritter is getting that crisp golden crust without losing the soft, flavorful interior. This recipe ensures both.
• Versatile and Customizable – Serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack. They also work well with different dips and can be adapted to suit dietary preferences.
• A Taste of Greece at Home – Whether you’ve been to Greece or dream of visiting, these fritters bring the authentic flavors of a Greek taverna right to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Ingredients

• Zucchini – The star of the dish, grated and drained to remove excess moisture.
• Onion & Garlic – For depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness when cooked.
• Fresh Herbs – Dill, mint, and parsley give the fritters their signature Mediterranean taste.

Dairy & Pantry Staples

• Feta Cheese – A Greek classic that adds creaminess and a salty, tangy bite.
• Eggs – Help bind the mixture together for the perfect texture.
• Flour & Baking Powder – Lightly coats the fritters, giving them a delicate crunch.
• Olive Oil – Used for frying to enhance the flavor with a rich, golden finish.

Seasonings

• Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors.
• Lemon Zest (Optional) – Adds a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the herbs and feta.

The combination of these ingredients results in crispy, savory fritters that are as delicious as they are easy to make.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by washing and grating the zucchini using a box grater or food processor.

Since zucchini contains a lot of water, it’s essential to remove as much moisture as possible.

Sprinkle the grated zucchini with a little salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess liquid.

After resting, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much water as possible.

The drier the zucchini, the crispier the fritters will be.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh herbs (dill, mint, and parsley), crumbled feta cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Mix everything well to evenly distribute the flavors.

Add the eggs and stir until incorporated. Then, gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing until a thick batter forms.

The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be overly wet. If it feels too loose, add a little more flour.

Step 3: Shape and Cook the Fritters

Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Once the oil is hot, scoop out small portions of the batter (about two tablespoons per fritter) and gently flatten them into patties.

Carefully place the fritters into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.

Fry for about 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip them carefully, ensuring they cook evenly.

Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Continue cooking the remaining batter in batches.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Greek zucchini fritters taste best when served warm. Pair them with tzatziki sauce, a wedge of lemon, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Tips for Perfect Greek Zucchini Fritters

Remove Excess Moisture

One of the most common mistakes when making zucchini fritters is not draining the zucchini well enough.

If the mixture is too wet, the fritters won’t hold their shape and will turn out soggy instead of crispy. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing the ingredients.

Use the Right Amount of Flour

Adding too much flour can make the fritters dense, while too little can make them fall apart.

Start with the recommended amount and adjust slightly if needed. The batter should be thick but not overly dry.

Fry at the Right Temperature

If the oil is too hot, the fritters will brown too quickly on the outside while staying raw inside.

If it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Frying too many fritters at once lowers the oil temperature and prevents them from crisping up properly.

Cook in small batches, allowing enough space for each fritter to brown evenly.

Customize to Your Taste

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or cheeses to suit your preference.

If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also try swapping feta with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect Greek zucchini fritters—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with delicious Mediterranean flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

Make It Gluten-Free

If you’re avoiding gluten, swap out the all-purpose flour for chickpea flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free blend.

Chickpea flour works particularly well, adding a slightly nutty flavor while helping bind the fritters.

Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, replace the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or simply leave it out.

Adding a bit more salt or nutritional yeast can help mimic the savory depth of feta.

Vegan Adaptation

To make these fritters vegan, replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg).

You may also need to add a bit more flour to help the mixture hold together.

Try Different Cheeses

While feta is the traditional choice, you can experiment with ricotta, goat cheese, or even Parmesan for a different twist.

Each cheese brings its own unique flavor and texture to the fritters.

Add More Vegetables

Enhance the recipe by incorporating shredded carrots, grated sweet potatoes, or finely chopped spinach.

This not only adds more nutrients but also brings a variety of flavors and colors to your fritters.

Baked or Air-Fried Option

For a healthier alternative, bake the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air-fry them at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.

While they won’t be as crunchy as the fried version, they will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

Greek zucchini fritters are a delightful way to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean into your home.

Whether you enjoy them as a light appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, they are easy to prepare and incredibly versatile.

By following the steps to drain the zucchini properly, using fresh herbs, and frying at the right temperature, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy fritters every time.

Plus, with so many variations and substitutions available, you can easily tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or a squeeze of lemon for the ultimate Greek experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Just be sure to give it a good stir before frying, as the moisture from the zucchini may separate slightly.

2. How do I make my fritters crispier?

The key to crispy fritters is removing as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before mixing the batter.

Additionally, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.

3. Can I freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes, these fritters freeze well. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

4. What can I serve with zucchini fritters?

Tzatziki sauce is the classic pairing, but you can also serve them with Greek yogurt, hummus, or a simple garlic-lemon dip.

They also go well with a fresh salad or warm pita bread.

5. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) on a greased baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

For extra crispiness, lightly brush the tops with olive oil before baking.