Enter the delightful world of Zucchini Croquettes, where the humble zucchini is transformed into a crispy, golden treat with a soft, flavorful center.

These croquettes are a perfect way to add a touch of elegance to your meals while sneaking in some veggies! Plus I’ll include 10 delicious dipping sauce ideas – just in case that’s your preferred way to eat them.

Skill Level: Beginner

This recipe is great for beginners. It involves simple grating, mixing, and shallow frying techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Health Aspect

Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins and fiber, promoting digestion. Using whole wheat breadcrumbs and olive oil adds to the nutritional value, making this a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods.

Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Makes about 12 croquettes

First, Gather the Ingredients

• Zucchini: 3 medium (about 500 grams or 17.6 ounces), grated
• Eggs: 2 large
• Whole wheat breadcrumbs: 1 cup (120 grams or 4.2 ounces)
• Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (45 grams or 1.6 ounces)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley: ¼ cup, chopped (30 grams)
• Salt: ½ teaspoon (2.5 grams)
• Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1 gram)
• Olive oil: for frying

Secondly, Prep and Cook – Instructions

1. Prep Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out the excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel. (See steps below)
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape Croquettes: Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
4. Cook: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the croquettes until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side. (Watch out for hot oil splatter!)
5. Drain: Remove the croquettes from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

Third, how do you want to serve them?

If you’re thinking about a dipping sauce, here are some ideas for you:

Here are 10 delicious dip options that complement the flavors of zucchini croquettes beautifully:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A Greek yogurt-based dip with cucumber, garlic, dill, and a hint of lemon. It’s refreshing and light, which balances the richness of the croquettes.
2. Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic-flavored mayonnaise-based dip. It adds a rich and savory touch to the croquettes.
3. Marinara Sauce: A classic Italian tomato sauce, slightly tangy and herby, which pairs well with the Parmesan in the croquettes.
4. Lemon Herb Yogurt Dip: A simple mix of plain yogurt with fresh lemon juice, zest, and herbs like dill or parsley. This dip adds a zesty and herby contrast to the dish.
5. Hummus: A smooth blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon. It offers a creamy and nutty flavor that complements the zucchini well.
6. Avocado Crema: A blend of ripe avocado, sour cream or yogurt, lime, and cilantro. This dip is creamy with a hint of brightness, perfect for a richer snack.
7. Ranch Dressing: A classic choice for a creamy and herby flavor profile that’s especially popular in the US.
8. Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with a bit of sriracha or hot sauce for a creamy dip with a kick.
9. Roasted Red Pepper Dip: Blended roasted red peppers with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of vinegar create a sweet and smoky dip.
10. Pesto: A basil-based sauce with pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, offering a fragrant and herby complement.

Each of these dips offers a unique flavor profile that can enhance the taste of zucchini croquettes, turning them into an even more enjoyable snack. You can choose one based on your flavor preferences and what complements the seasoning of your croquettes.

Fourth, Consider These Tips for Perfection

• Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to avoid soggy croquettes. (See below)
• Maintain a consistent temperature while frying for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.

Important Tip for Your Zucchini Croquettes…

Getting the moisture out of zucchini is crucial for recipes like zucchini croquettes, bread, or fritters, where excess water can affect the texture and cooking results.

Here’s the best way to do it:

Steps to Remove Moisture from Zucchini

1. Grate the Zucchini: Use a standard box grater to grate the zucchini. You can choose between coarse or fine grates, depending on your recipe’s requirements.
2. Salt the Zucchini: Transfer the grated zucchini to a strainer or colander. Sprinkle it with a small amount of salt (about a half teaspoon for each medium-sized zucchini). The salt draws out the moisture. Toss gently to distribute the salt evenly.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the salted zucchini to sit for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the salt will draw out a significant amount of moisture.
4. Squeeze Out the Moisture: After the resting period, take handfuls of the grated zucchini and squeeze out the moisture. You can do this by pressing it against the sides of the strainer with a spoon or with your hands. For a more effective method, wrap the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring it out. This method usually removes the most water.
5. Repeat if Necessary: If the zucchini still feels very wet, you can repeat the salting and squeezing process, although this is rarely necessary.
6. Rinse and Dry (Optional): If you’re concerned about the zucchini being too salty, you can quickly rinse it under cold water and then squeeze it dry again. However, if you only use a small amount of salt, this step may not be necessary.

Tips for Best Results

• Do Not Skip Resting Time: Allowing the zucchini to sit after salting is key for moisture extraction.
• Use the Right Amount of Salt: Don’t over-salt, as it can make the zucchini too salty, especially if the recipe includes additional salt.
• Check the Texture: If the recipe needs the zucchini to retain some firmness, be careful not to over-squeeze.

By effectively removing the moisture, you ensure that your zucchini dishes will have the right texture and won’t be soggy. This technique is simple yet essential for many recipes that include zucchini.

Optional Ingredients

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Swap Parmesan with feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

More Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad, yogurt dip, or sweet chili sauce. They also pair well with a light pasta dish.

Nutrient Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~100 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 5 g

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re read to reheat them – put them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Origin

Zucchini Croquettes are a versatile dish found in various cuisines, often with regional twists. In Mediterranean cooking, similar recipes use an array of spices and herbs, reflecting the area’s rich culinary history.

Conclusion

Zucchini Croquettes are a delightful and healthy addition to any meal. Perfect for a family dinner or as a party appetizer, or a healthy snack… they’re sure to be a hit!
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