Zucchini Fritters with Chipotle-Lime Crema

If you're blessed with a surplus of zucchini in your garden this summer, or you stocked up at the market, you need to add these crisp zucchini fritters to your next menu. They're delicious any time of day, especially paired with a spicy, citrusy crema for dipping. (If you have any zucchini doubters in your group, these little bites are sure to bring them around!) Serve the fritters as a party appetizer or alongside a simple summer meal of grilled chicken skewers, swordfish, or salmon.

How do you keep zucchini fritters from falling apart?

There are a few key ingredients that help ensure your fritters hold their shape. Eggs, flour, and cornstarch act as binders that glue the shredded zucchini into little patties that crisp up without falling apart.

Why are my fritters not crispy?

No one likes a soggy fritter! Here are a few tricks to keep your fritters crispy: First, salt the zucchini. Zucchini hold a lot of water, and salt helps draw out moisture—moisture that can make the fritters soggy. After about 10 minutes of sitting in a colander, press the salted zucchini with paper towels to remove as much liquid as possible.

Second, make sure the oil is hot enough before you add batter to the skillet. If the oil isn't hot enough, the fritters can absorb oil and end up soggy. To test the oil, drop a teaspoon of batter in. If it sizzles, it's ready. You can also pull out a trusty thermometer to test the oil—it should be about 325 degrees Fahrenheit. The cornstarch in the batter also helps crisp up the fritters!

Can you freeze zucchini fritters?

Yes, if you'd like to make a double (or even a triple) batch of fritters, you can freeze them for later. Let the cooked fritters cool to room temperature on a wire rack, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them solid, about one hour. Transfer the frozen fritters to an airtight bag or container and freeze them for up to three months.

When you're ready to serve the fritters, reheat them from frozen in a large skillet over medium heat (or in the oven or air fryer at 350°F) until they're hot and crispy.