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Baked Zucchini Fritters with Ranch Tzatziki

When it comes to summer produce, few vegetables shine quite as brightly as the humble zucchini. Versatile and delicious, zucchini can be transformed into countless dishes, but one recipe that truly stands out is Baked Zucchini Fritters. Not only are these fritters a delightful way to use up an abundance of zucchini, but they are also light and healthy, making them a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Paired with a cooling ranch tzatziki, they transform into a snack or light meal that will leave your taste buds dancing.

The Beauty of Baked Fritters

Traditionally, fritters are deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. However, baking them offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavour. The baking process allows the zucchini to retain its moisture while helping achieve a delightful crispness. With minimal oil needed for this method, these fritters are both delightful and guilt-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Baked Zucchini Fritters:

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (can be gluten-free)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray

For the Ranch Tzatziki:

• 1 cup Greek yoghurt
• 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Crafting the Fritters

1. Prepping the Zucchini: Begin by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and twist to squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial, as removing the water helps ensure your fritters won’t turn out soggy.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated. The mixture should be moist yet hold together well; you can adjust by adding more breadcrumbs if necessary.

3. Baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Using your hands, form the zucchini mixture into small patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Give the tops a light spray of olive oil to assist with browning. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fritters are golden brown and crispy.

Creating the Ranch Tzatziki

While the fritters are baking, why not whip up a quick ranch tzatziki for dipping?

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yoghurt, grated cucumber (ensure it’s well-drained), dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Once the fritters are beautifully golden and crisp, serve them warm alongside the ranch tzatziki. These fritters make an excellent starter for a summer barbecue or a light lunch. Toss together a fresh salad with seasonal vegetables to complement the dish, or use the fritters as a filling for a wrap, drizzling the ranch tzatziki over the top for extra flavour.

Final Thoughts

Baked Zucchini Fritters with Ranch Tzatziki are not only a delightful way to enjoy zucchini but also a flexible recipe that allows for various tweaks and adaptations. Whether you choose to swap out the herbs, add different cheeses, or even incorporate other vegetables, the base recipe provides a sturdy foundation for creativity. So, the next time zucchini is in season, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish that celebrates the best of summer produce. Happy cooking!

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