If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and delicious recipe that makes the most out of simple vegetables, these zucchini and potato fritters are a fantastic choice. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor from fresh spring onions. This recipe is easy enough for a weekday meal yet tasty enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or even a light lunch with a side salad. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free thanks to the rice flour, and it only requires a handful of pantry staples.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 zucchinis, grated

• 1 potato, grated

• 1 egg

• 2 spring onions, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon rice flour

• Olive oil, for frying

• Salt, to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Grate the zucchinis and potato using a coarse grater. Place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, squeeze out as much liquid as possible, and transfer to a large mixing bowl.

2. Mix the batter: Add the finely chopped spring onions, egg, rice flour, and salt. Mix until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed—if it feels too wet, add a little more rice flour.

3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

4. Shape the fritters: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture, flatten slightly into a patty, and place in the hot skillet.

5. Fry until golden: Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with remaining mixture, adding more oil as needed.

6. Serve: Transfer fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot, either on their own or with dipping sauces like yogurt-garlic dip, tzatziki, or sour cream.

Nutrients (per serving, 3 fritters)

• Calories: ~160

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 9 g

• Carbohydrates: 14 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sodium: 250 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These fritters are crunchy, satisfying, and packed with vegetables. They’re versatile—you can eat them hot for a comforting snack, cold in a lunchbox, or even as a burger patty alternative. They’re kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and make use of everyday ingredients. The combination of zucchini, potato, and spring onions creates a balance of earthy, fresh, and slightly sweet flavors.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Vegetable fritters are popular in many cultures worldwide. From Jewish latkes to Greek kolokithokeftedes (zucchini fritters), the idea of combining grated vegetables with a binder and frying them until crispy is universal. This recipe takes inspiration from those traditions but keeps it simple, focusing on zucchini and potato as the stars.

Ingredient Spotlight

When making zucchini and potato fritters, every ingredient has a purpose that brings balance to the dish. The zucchini is the star here, light and slightly sweet, adding both moisture and subtle flavor while sneaking in a dose of nutrition. Potatoes, on the other hand, provide the structure and body, giving the fritters that satisfying heartiness we all crave. The use of rice flour may seem minimal, but it’s what makes the fritters light, crisp, and naturally gluten-free—perfect for those who want crunch without heaviness. Spring onions brighten everything up with a fresh, mild onion note, lifting the earthiness of the potato and the zucchini so that every bite feels balanced and flavorful. Together, these simple ingredients create a fritter that’s not only delicious but also wholesome and versatile enough to adapt to your taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like most fried foods, zucchini and potato fritters are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pan when their crispy edges are at their peak. However, they do store surprisingly well if handled properly. To keep leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The key to reheating is avoiding the microwave, which tends to make them soggy. Instead, revive them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them into the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8–10 minutes. This will bring back their signature crispiness. If you’ve made a big batch and want to save some for later, freezing is also an option. Lay the fritters flat on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat straight from frozen in the oven until golden and heated through. This way, you can have homemade fritters ready to go anytime, without losing their irresistible crunch.

Common Variations to Try

One of the best things about zucchini and potato fritters is how flexible they are—you can easily customize them to suit your mood or what you have on hand. If you love a touch of sweetness, adding grated carrot not only boosts the flavor but also adds a lovely pop of color. For those who enjoy Mediterranean flair, crumbled feta cheese mixed into the batter transforms the fritters into a Greek-inspired delight, salty and tangy against the soft zucchini. If spice is your thing, sprinkle in chili flakes, cumin, or paprika for a kick that warms the palate. Want more protein and a slightly nutty taste? Swap out the rice flour for chickpea flour. And if you’re looking to elevate them into a brunch-worthy dish, serve the fritters topped with a perfectly poached egg—the runny yolk acts as a rich, velvety sauce that makes the whole meal feel indulgent. These small changes allow you to reinvent the fritters each time you make them, keeping the recipe exciting and new.

Pairing Recommendations

These fritters pair wonderfully with fresh salads, grilled meats, or as part of a mezze platter with hummus and dips. They’re also delicious alongside soups or as a light lunch with yogurt sauce. A crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or iced tea makes the perfect refreshing drink to go with them.

Health Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, while potatoes provide potassium and fiber. Using olive oil instead of heavy frying oils makes them healthier, and rice flour keeps them gluten-free. It’s a sneaky way to get kids to eat more vegetables without complaint.

Conclusion

Zucchini and potato fritters are the ultimate simple yet satisfying dish. Crispy, flavorful, and versatile, they can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even a main course with the right accompaniments. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something that feels indulgent but is also wholesome and nourishing. Whether you serve them with a dipping sauce, tuck them into a wrap, or top them with an egg, these fritters are bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.