Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Zucchini Fritters with Feta and Dill

This is the perfect summer appetizer, and a wonderful way to use up that zucchini! These fritters are loaded with feta cheese, panko, and lemon to make a Greek-inspired appetizer that anyone will love. Served with a dallop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of dill, they are fancy enough for company, and easy to make ahead! They're also lovely served as a simple lunch with crusty bread and a side salad. Enjoy these fritters with your next summer meal!


Zucchini Fritters with Feta and Dill
An impressive and delicious summer appetizer!

6 servings

2  medium zucchini, trimmed
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
1/2 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1 large egg, beaten to blend
1/2 cup coarsely crumbled feta cheese
Canola oil (for frying)
Plain whole-milk or reduced-fat Greek-style yogurt (for garnish)
Additional chopped fresh dill (for garnish)

Grate zucchini on large holes of box grater onto clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle zucchini with 1 teaspoon coarse salt; let stand at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.

Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment or foil. Wrap zucchini in towel; squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Place zucchini in medium bowl. Mix in green onions, 2 tablespoons chopped dill, mint, garlic, lemon peel, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Gently stir in panko and egg, then feta. Using 2 tablespoons zucchini mixture for each, shape mixture into 1 3/4- to 2-inch-diameter patty; place on baking sheet. Chill at least 1 hour to firm.
Pour enough canola oil into heavy large skillet to reach depth of 1/4 inch; heat over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add patties to skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, adjusting heat if browning too quickly, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Using slotted metal spoon, transfer to paper towels.

Arrange fritters on platter. Top each with dollop of yogurt. Sprinkle each with dill. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Recipe adapted from Bon Appetit