If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delightful dish, these Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki Recipe are about to become your new favorite. Imagine crispy edges with a tender, flavorful bite packed full of garden-fresh zucchini, tangy feta, and bright spinach, all perfectly complemented by a cool, garlicky tzatziki sauce that ties everything together in sheer harmony. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy yet is incredibly simple to whip up, making it ideal for any occasion from a quick lunch to a sharing platter at your next get-together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of texture and flavor in this dish. From the crisp zucchini to the creamy feta and zesty garlic in the tzatziki, your taste buds are in for a treat.
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated: The main veggie that adds moisture and freshness to the fritters.
- 1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese: Provides a salty, creamy bite that complements the veggies.
- 1/2 cup (60g) fresh spinach, chopped: Offers a pop of color and a mild, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth to the fritters.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Binds the ingredients together for that perfect fritter texture.
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour: Helps hold everything together and adds body.
- 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch): Boosts crispiness and bite if you want that extra textural contrast.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle background warmth.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying): The key to golden, crispy fritters that won’t stick.
- 1/2 cup (120g) Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the refreshing garlic tzatziki sauce.
- 1 small cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out: Adds crisp, cooling refreshment in the tzatziki.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Smooths out the tzatziki with richness.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Packs the tzatziki with a punch of aromatic flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the sauce.
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped (optional): Adds a herbal note that is classic in tzatziki.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To finish off seasoning the tzatziki perfectly.
How to Make Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
The first step is all about managing the moisture to ensure your fritters hold beautifully without becoming soggy. After grating the zucchinis, place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess water as you can. This step might seem small but makes a massive difference in achieving that crisp, golden crust you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Mix the Fritter Batter
In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini with crumbled feta, chopped spinach, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, flour, and optional breadcrumbs. Add salt and pepper and mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated. This mixture is the magic base of the fritters, where creamy, savory, and fresh elements come together in one bowl.
Step 3: Heat the Pan and Oil
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The right temperature is crucial for getting a golden crust without burning, so medium heat is perfect for cooking the fritters through while crisping the edges just right.
Step 4: Cook the Fritters
Scoop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet, gently flattening each one to achieve that lovely fritter shape. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, revealing a golden, crispy exterior before flipping. Patience here means perfectly cooked fritters that are soft inside but crisp outside.
Step 5: Drain and Set Aside
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels. This allows any excess oil to be absorbed, keeping the fritters light and ready to pair wonderfully with the garlic tzatziki.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Tzatziki
Mix your Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out extra moisture here too), olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and dill if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper and stir well. This cool sauce is a refreshing counterpoint to your warm, savory fritters and truly takes the dish to the next level.
Step 7: Serve Warm with Tzatziki
Plate the fritters while they’re still warm and add a generous dollop of garlic tzatziki on top or on the side for dipping. This combination is so inviting and full of flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for more than one.
How to Serve Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up these fritters with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or extra dill. A few thin lemon slices on the side also make the presentation pop and add a zingy freshness that pairs beautifully with the garlic tzatziki.
Side Dishes
These fritters work wonderfully alongside a crisp salad with tomatoes and cucumbers or a light grain like quinoa or couscous. For something heartier, pair them with roasted vegetables or a simple Greek salad to keep the Mediterranean theme going.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the fritters into sliders with a dollop of tzatziki in between for a fun finger-food option. Alternatively, serve them plated nicely with a drizzle of the tzatziki and a side of pita bread for scooping. They also make an excellent appetizer for entertaining or a charming brunch dish to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover zucchini, feta, and spinach fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel under the fritters to absorb excess moisture while chilling.
Freezing
Freeze any extra fritters by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer to harden before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months, just perfect for easy meals down the road.
Reheating
Reheat fritters in a non-stick skillet over medium heat or in the oven to regain their crisp edges. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy. The garlic tzatziki is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge and stirred before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for the fritters?
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach with frozen as long as you thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess water to avoid soggy fritters. The texture will still be delicious, though fresh spinach offers a brighter flavor.
What if I don’t have feta cheese?
You can swap feta with any crumbly cheese like goat cheese or ricotta salata. Each variation will slightly change the flavor profile but still bring that wonderful salty creaminess to the fritters.
Is the garlic tzatziki necessary?
While the fritters are tasty alone, the garlic tzatziki is the perfect finishing touch that balances the warm, savory fritters with a cool, fresh sauce. It’s highly recommended to make the dish truly special.
Can I make the fritters vegan?
To make a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer and use vegan feta or omit it altogether. The taste will vary, but with the right adjustments, the fritters can still be delicious.
How do I make the fritters extra crispy?
Adding breadcrumbs and ensuring you thoroughly squeeze out moisture from the zucchini and spinach helps. Frying over medium heat and not overcrowding the pan ensures they crisp up nicely without steaming.
Final Thoughts
These Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki Recipe hold a special place in my kitchen rotation because they bring a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that feel both comforting and fresh. They are incredibly approachable to make, yet impressive to serve, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. I encourage you to try this recipe—you might just find your new favorite way to celebrate seasonal veggies with a Mediterranean twist.
Print
Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Zucchini, Feta, and Spinach Fritters with Garlic Tzatziki are a delightful, crispy, and savory appetizer or light meal. Loaded with fresh vegetables, salty feta, and a creamy garlic-infused yogurt sauce, these fritters bring together Mediterranean flavors with easy stovetop frying for a quick, nutritious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fritters
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup (60g) fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Garlic Tzatziki
- 1/2 cup (120g) Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This ensures the fritters hold together and become crispy during cooking.
- Mix the fritter ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, all-purpose flour, optional breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a thick batter.
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the oil is hot enough to crisp the fritters without burning.
- Cook the fritters: Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet, flattening each slightly with the back of the spoon to form pancake-like fritters. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat if necessary to cook through without burning.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the cooked fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any residual oil.
- Prepare the garlic tzatziki: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (with excess moisture squeezed out), olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and chopped dill if using. Stir well to blend all flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the warm fritters and serve them with a generous dollop of garlic tzatziki either on top or on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out the zucchini’s moisture thoroughly to prevent soggy fritters.
- Breadcrumbs are optional but add extra crunch; omit for a gluten-free option by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially salt, as feta is naturally salty.
- If you prefer, the fritters can be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes flipping halfway, but frying gives a better crispy texture.
- Fresh dill in the tzatziki adds authentic flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
