Courgette Fritters Recipe

Courgette fritters recipes are a brilliant way to transform a humble courgette into a crispy, golden delight. This dish is quick to prepare, beautifully seasoned, and ideal for any meal of the day.

Why to cook it?

If you’ve got a couple of courgettes lying around and not much time, this courgette fritter recipe will become your new favourite. It’s one of those no-fuss recipes that delivers incredible flavour with minimal ingredients. Whether you’re serving these for lunch, dinner, or a midweek snack, they tick all the boxes: crispy, healthy, and satisfying.

A courgette fritter makes a perfect light supper in the summer months when courgettes are at their peak, but honestly, I make them year-round. It’s a fantastic recipe for anyone looking to eat more vegetables without sacrificing taste—or for using up a garden glut of courgettes. You can enjoy them on their own, with a dip, or as part of a bigger spread.

Why These Ingredients Work

Let’s take a closer look at why each ingredient has its place in this recipe:

• Courgettes – Mild in flavour, courgettes create a soft and tender interior while helping the fritter hold its shape. Grating them and removing moisture is key to a crisp texture.
• Salt – Not just for seasoning! Salt helps draw out the water content in courgettes, which prevents soggy fritters.
• Onion – Adds sharpness and balances the sweetness of the courgette with a bit of bite.
• Egg – Binds the mixture together and helps with structure.
• Plain Flour – Gives the fritter body and crispness when fried.
• Garlic – Adds savoury depth and warmth.
• Dried or Fresh Herbs – Herbs like dill, parsley, or oregano boost the flavour and add freshness.
• Black Pepper – Brings subtle heat and seasoning.
• Oil – Essential for pan-frying and getting those irresistible golden edges.

For extra flavour, you can experiment with different seasonings or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, slightly smoky taste.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Swap flour for chickpea or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Try to add coriander or basil instead of dill or parsley for a different flavour.
• Add smoked paprika, cumin, or za’atar for a spiced twist.
• Use spring onions instead of regular onions for a milder taste.

How to Make a Courgette Fritters

This courgette fritters recipe is so simple anyone can make it, even if you're brand new in the kitchen.

Step 1:
Grate your courgettes and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 5 minutes. This draws out moisture. Then, use a clean tea towel or your hands to squeeze out as much water as possible. This step is crucial for getting a crisp result.

Step 2:
In a large bowl, mix the grated courgettes with the grated onion, egg, flour, minced garlic, herbs, black pepper, and any additional seasoning you like. Stir until a thick batter forms.

Step 3:
Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Drop in spoonfuls of the mixture and flatten slightly with a spatula. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4:
Remove the fritters and place them on kitchen paper to drain. Serve hot with your choice of dips or sides.

Tips for perfect courgette fritters:

• Always remove as much water as possible from the courgette.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures even frying and crispness.

What to Serve with Courgette Fritters?

These fritters pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and side dishes:

• Sour cream with chopped herbs – A classic and refreshing choice.
• Greek yoghurt with lemon zest – Light and tangy.
• Garlic aioli – Adds a creamy, garlicky kick.
• Spicy tomato relish – A great option for those who love a bit of heat.
• Side dishes – Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or smoked salmon for a complete meal.

Storage:
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a dry frying pan or oven to bring back their crispiness. These are not suitable for freezing as they become too watery.

10 Useful Tips & Notes for Courgette Fritters

• Always drain courgettes well to avoid soggy fritters.
• Use a box grater for even texture.
• Add crumbled feta or grated cheddar for more flavour.
• Fresh herbs give the best flavour, but dried work too.
• For gluten-free, use chickpea or oat flour.
• Use a non-stick pan for even browning.
• Try adding a pinch of cumin or paprika.
• If your batter is too wet, add a touch more flour.
• Serve immediately for best texture.
• Use leftover fritters in wraps with salad and sauce.

FAQ

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Courgette Fritters

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These crispy courgette fritters are easy to make and full of flavour. Perfect as a light meal, side dish, or snack. Serve them warm with your favourite dip for an extra delicious touch.

Ingredients

• 2 medium courgettes (about 400g), grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 small onion, grated
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoon plain flour
• dried or fresh herbs of choice - like dill, parsley, oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2-3 tablespoon oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Grate the courgettes, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 5 minutes. Squeeze out the excess moisture.
2. In a bowl, mix the courgettes with grated onion, egg, flour, garlic, and seasoning to form a batter.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the pan and flatten slightly.
4. Fry for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Serve warm with your favourite dip.

Notes

Removing excess water from the courgettes is key for crispy fritters.

Swap herbs and spices to customise the flavour.

Best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven or pan.