Crispy zucchini fritters packed with herbs and aromatics, served over fluffy couscous and drizzled with a tangy lemon-herb yogurt sauce—perfect for a light vegetarian lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a refreshing take on classic fritters, balancing crispiness with fresh, herby flavors. The fritters are golden on the outside and tender inside, complemented by the creamy tang of the yogurt sauce. Paired with couscous, it becomes a complete and satisfying meal that is both light and nourishing. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone looking for a flavorful meatless dish, it also works beautifully for meal prep, quick weeknight dinners, or an elegant lunch to serve guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the fritters:

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• Olive oil for frying

For the herbed yogurt sauce:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped mint
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 1/4 cup boiling water
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish

Directions

1. Place grated zucchini in a colander with salt, mix, and let sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a towel.
2. In a bowl, combine zucchini with parsley, green onions, feta, egg, flour, pepper, and cumin.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Scoop spoonfuls of mixture, flatten into patties, and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. For the couscous, pour boiling water over couscous in a bowl. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
5. Mix all yogurt sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve fritters over couscous, drizzle with yogurt sauce, and garnish with lemon wedges and herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Replace feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Use quinoa instead of couscous for added protein.
• Add grated carrot or sweet potato to the fritter mix for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Swap the yogurt sauce with tzatziki or tahini dressing for a different twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. The yogurt sauce should be stored separately in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days. Couscous can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated with a splash of water to restore fluffiness.

FAQs

Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fritter mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

How do I keep the fritters from falling apart?

Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible and do not skip the flour and egg, which act as binders.

Can I bake the fritters instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, though they will be less crispy.

Can I freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes, once cooked and cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

What can I serve instead of couscous?

Rice, quinoa, bulgur, or even a fresh green salad work well as substitutes.

Can I use zucchini without peeling?

Yes, the skin is tender and adds nutrients and color. Simply wash the zucchini well before grating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour. Pair with gluten-free grains instead of couscous.

What type of yogurt works best for the sauce?

Greek yogurt is ideal due to its thickness and creaminess, but plain regular yogurt can also be used.

How can I make the fritters vegan?

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use dairy-free feta and yogurt alternatives.

Can I add more spices to the fritters?

Absolutely. Paprika, turmeric, or fresh dill would add extra flavor depth.

Conclusion

Zucchini fritters with herbed yogurt sauce and couscous offer a delightful balance of texture and flavor, making them a versatile dish suitable for everyday meals or special occasions. Light yet satisfying, they showcase fresh vegetables in a delicious way. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is an excellent addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

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