Name: Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 3 cups grated zucchini; 2 green onions or shallots; 2 eggs; 1 garlic clove; 1/2 cup feta cheese; 1 tablespoon dill; 1/2 cup wholemeal flour; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

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Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters) are not just another dish; they are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. These fritters are crispy on the outside and tender inside, featuring fresh zucchini and creamy feta cheese. Ideal as a weeknight dinner, appetizer, or even a snack, Kolokithokeftedes are sure to impress your family and friends with their vibrant taste and simple preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these fritters in no time.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious zucchini and herbs, these fritters offer a wholesome option for any meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or main course served with a salad or dip.
Crispy Texture: The frying technique ensures a golden crust while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Vegetarian Delight: These fritters cater to vegetarian diets without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Kolokithokeftedes successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Frying pan
Grater
Mixing bowl
Colander or sieve
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Frying pan: A good quality frying pan ensures even cooking and crispiness for your fritters.
Grater: Grating zucchini finely helps release excess moisture, resulting in perfectly textured fritters.
Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Fritters

3 cups Grated Zucchini, see COOKING TIPS below
2 Greens Onions / Shallots, halved lengthways and thinly sliced
2 Eggs
1 Garlic Clove, minced
1/2 cup Feta Cheese, preferably Greek
1 tablespoon Dill, finely chopped / minced
1/2 cup Wholemeal / Wholewheat Flour, plus more if needed
1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
Salt + Pepper, to taste
Olive Oil, enough to just cover the bottom of your frying pan (approx 2-3 tbsp)

How to Make Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Grate the zucchini into a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let it drain for 30 minutes to an hour in the sink.
After draining, squeeze out any remaining moisture by hand or using a clean tea towel.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, drained zucchini, green onions, garlic, dill, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle flour and baking powder evenly across the mixture. Stir until just combined—avoid overmixing as this can lead to dense fritters.

Step 3: Cook the Fritters

Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Use enough oil to coat the bottom lightly.
Place tablespoons of the mixture into the pan. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of a spatula.
Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate.

Enjoy your delicious Kolokithokeftedes as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

Kolokithokeftedes are not only delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance their flavor. Here are some creative ways to serve these tasty fritters.

Dipping Sauces

Tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic that complements the fritters’ flavors.
Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that adds a nutty taste and works well with the zucchini.
Spicy Tomato Salsa: A zesty option for those who enjoy a bit of heat alongside their fritters.

Salads

Greek Salad: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta create a vibrant side that balances the dish.
Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad with vinegar dressing enhances the meal’s freshness.

Bread Options

Pita Bread: Soft and warm pita can be used to scoop up the fritters or sauces for added texture.
Whole Grain Bread: A hearty slice of whole grain bread makes for a nutritious base to serve the fritters on.

How to Perfect Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

To achieve perfectly crispy and tender kolokithokeftedes, consider these tips. They will ensure your fritters turn out delightful every time.

Use fresh zucchini: Fresh produce has more moisture and flavor, which is essential for delicious fritters.
Drain excess moisture: Grating and salting the zucchini helps remove extra water, preventing soggy fritters.
Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to keep the fritters light; overmixing can lead to dense texture.
Adjust oil temperature: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough before adding fritters; this helps achieve a crispy exterior quickly.
Serve immediately: These fritters taste best fresh off the pan; serve them right after cooking for optimal flavor.
Experiment with herbs: Add different herbs like parsley or mint to create unique flavor profiles tailored to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

Pairing side dishes with kolokithokeftedes elevates your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Quinoa Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon dressing—great for adding protein.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil provide a deliciously caramelized contrast in texture.
Lentil Soup: Hearty lentil soup complements the lightness of kolokithokeftedes while adding depth to your meal.
Feta Cheese Crumble: Simple crumbles of feta cheese can add a salty punch when sprinkled over salads or on the side.
Chickpea Salad: Tossed chickpeas with diced vegetables make a filling side that’s rich in protein and fiber.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears offer an elegant touch and bring out earthy flavors when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters). Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Over-grating the zucchini: Grating zucchini too finely can lead to mushy fritters. Use a coarse grater for better texture.
Skipping the salting step: Not salting the grated zucchini prevents excess moisture from being removed. Always salt and let it drain for at least 30 minutes.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create dense fritters. Stir until just combined for light and crispy results.
Not preheating the oil: Cooking in cold oil can result in soggy fritters. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the mixture.
Crowding the pan: Adding too many fritters at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Kolokithokeftedes in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

Allow fritters to cool completely before freezing.
Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place fritters on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil until crisp and heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters):

What is Kolokithokeftedes?

Kolokithokeftedes are Greek zucchini fritters made primarily with grated zucchini, herbs, and feta cheese, creating a deliciously crispy dish.

Can I make Kolokithokeftedes ahead of time?

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

How do I serve Kolokithokeftedes?

These fritters are best served warm with a side of tzatziki or yogurt sauce for dipping.

Can I customize my Kolokithokeftedes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like parsley or mint or incorporate other vegetables such as carrots or spinach.

Are Kolokithokeftedes suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they are great for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters) are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent addition to any meal—serving as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course when paired with a salad. Feel free to customize these fritters with your favorite herbs and vegetables. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful bites!

Kolokithokeftedes (Greek Zucchini Fritters)

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Author: Aylani
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Greek

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Description

Kolokithokeftedes, or Greek Zucchini Fritters, are a delightful treat that perfectly blend crispy textures with fresh flavors. These fritters showcase the best of summer squash, combined with creamy feta and aromatic herbs for a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Ideal as a light dinner, appetizer, or snack, Kolokithokeftedes can be enjoyed on their own or paired with delicious dips like tzatziki or hummus. With just 10 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll quickly whip up a batch that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups grated zucchini
2 green onions or shallots
2 eggs
1 garlic clove
1/2 cup feta cheese
1 tablespoon dill
1/2 cup wholemeal flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

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Instructions

Grate the zucchini into a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let drain for 30 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture.
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, eggs, green onions, garlic, dill, feta cheese, salt, pepper, flour, and baking powder. Mix until just combined.
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly.
Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.