4-Ingredient Zucchini Fritters: Quick, Crispy & Absolutely Delicious

It started with a basket of garden zucchini and no clue what to make for lunch. I remembered my mom’s trick—grate it, salt it, fry it. That’s how these 4-ingredient zucchini fritters were born: humble, crisp-edged, and packed with flavor. If you’ve ever craved something fast and savory, 4-ingredient zucchini fritters are the answer. With just zucchini, egg, flour, and onion, they’re as simple as it gets—no fuss, just good food.

Why You’ll Love These 4-Ingredient Zucchini Fritters

These 4-ingredient zucchini fritters are your go-to solution when you need something quick, crispy, and satisfying. With just zucchini, onion, flour, and egg, they come together in under 40 minutes. Perfect for lazy lunches, speedy weeknight dinners, or meal prep, these 4-ingredient zucchini fritters are budget-friendly, kid-approved, and easy to make gluten-free or vegan. Serve ’em hot with your favorite dip or stash a few in the fridge—they’re just as tasty cold.

Ingredients You’ll Need (and Simple Swaps)

The Core Four

• Zucchini – The star! Moist and mild, it gives these fritters a tender bite. Make sure to salt and squeeze to keep them crispy.
• Flour – Acts as the binder and gives structure. All-purpose works great, but you’ve got options.
• Egg – Holds everything together. It also adds just the right fluff.
• Onion – Adds a savory depth. Raw onion gets lightly sweet when fried into the fritters.

Substitutes and Add-Ins

Want to switch things up? Try almond or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version. For vegan fritters, swap the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tbsp ground seed + 3 tbsp water). You can also fold in grated carrots, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, a handful of cheese, or even a dash of cayenne for heat.

How to Make Zucchini Fritters (Step-by-Step)

1. Prep the Zucchini

Grab a box grater and shred your zucchini using the large holes. Sprinkle with salt (about 1 tsp), mix, and let it sit for 20 minutes. This helps pull out the water. Now squeeze—use a clean towel or your hands until that zucchini feels dry-ish.

2. Mix the Batter

In a bowl, toss together your chopped onion, flour, egg, and the drained zucchini. Mix until it’s all combined. The batter should hold its shape on a spoon—moist but not watery. Feel free to toss in some garlic, fresh herbs, or shredded cheese here too.

3. Cook Until Golden

Heat a nonstick skillet with a drizzle of oil over low-medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the pan, gently flattening them. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden underneath, then flip and cook the other side uncovered until crispy. Don’t rush this step—low heat gives you that perfect golden crust.

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Tips for Crispy, Flavorful Fritters

• Squeeze that zucchini! Water is the enemy of crispness.
• Keep it low and slow. High heat will burn before the inside cooks.
• Add texture and flavor. A little garlic, dill, or shredded cheese can go a long way.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Space helps them cook evenly.

How to Serve Them

These fritters are versatile little wonders. Dunk them in tzatziki or lemony aioli for a Mediterranean vibe. Stack them with buns, tomato, and honey mustard for a veggie slider. Or pack them cold in a lunchbox with some olives and a chunk of feta. They also make a stellar side to grilled fish or chicken.

Looking for a crispier variation? Check out this crispy pan-fried zucchini side dish. Or for a snackable twist, try these air fryer zucchini fries.

FAQ – Your Questions Answered

Final Thoughts

These 4-ingredient zucchini fritters are proof that simple food can still be wildly satisfying. Whether you’re using up garden zucchini or hunting for a budget-friendly dish, these fritters deliver every time. Pin it, save it, or make it today—and don’t forget to share how yours turned out!

For another take with just a few pantry staples, check out this easy zucchini fritters recipe with minimal ingredients.

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