Courgette fritters are a quick and delicious way to enjoy fresh courgettes. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with herby flavour. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, appetisers, or even a light lunch, these fritters are easy to make and taste incredible with a variety of dips.

courgette fritters recipe easy to follow and budget-friendly

Courgette fritters are made by mixing grated courgette with eggs, flour, fresh herbs, and seasonings, then pan-frying until golden and crispy. The result? A perfectly crunchy exterior with a soft, flavourful centre.

Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a budget-friendly dish, using simple, inexpensive ingredients that make the most of delicious courgettes.

Whether you're a courgette lover or just looking for a delicious way to eat more veggies, these fritters are a fantastic choice. They’re kid-friendly, easy to make, and endlessly customisable with different herbs and spices. Cooking them together is a great way to get children excited about food—let them mix, shape, and experiment with flavours for a fun, hands-on kitchen experience!

Ingredients & Why We Use Them

Courgettes – The main ingredient, giving the fritters a tender texture and mild, slightly sweet flavour.
Salt – Helps draw out excess moisture from the courgettes, ensuring crispy fritters.
Onion – Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the courgette’s mildness.
Eggs – Bind everything together, giving structure to the fritters.
Flour – Provides the necessary texture and crispness when fried.
Garlic – Gives a little extra savoury depth.
Add some dry or fresh herbs - like dill or parsley to elevate the taste.
Cheese – Enhances the savoury richness. Try this amazing recipe with cheddar che e se!
Black Pepper & Chilli Flakes – Add warmth and mild heat.
Oil – Essential for frying, creating a beautifully crisp texture on the outside. Neutral oil, with no "aggressive" taste or smell.

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 Courgette Fritters

Grate the courgettes, then sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about five minutes—this helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring crispy fritters. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing with grated onion, eggs, flour, garlic, cheese (if using), and seasoning to form a thick batter.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and drop spoonfuls of batter into the pan, flattening them slightly. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Drain on kitchen paper and serve warm for the best texture and flavour.

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.

How to Store & Reheat Courgette Fritters

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a dry pan over medium heat or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes. This helps retain their crispiness. Not suitable for freezing as they lose their texture.

More Ways to Enjoy Courgette Fritters

Use them as a sandwich filling with hummus and rocket.
Stack them with poached eggs for a tasty brunch.
Make them mini-sized for a party appetiser.