If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, nutritious, and quick snack or appetizer, these Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) are about to become your new go-to. In just under an hour, you can whip up a batch of perfectly crisp fritters bursting with herby, cheesy flavor, all without weighing you down or throwing off your healthy eating goals. Whether you’re serving family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe turns humble zucchini into something unforgettable, with a delicious garlic-chive yogurt sauce that takes each bite to the next level.

Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about how your pantry staples and a few fresh veggies come together for magic. Each ingredient in these Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) plays a purposeful role, contributing crunch, moisture, or irresistible tanginess to every bite.

  • Zucchini: The star of the show, zucchini brings moisture and a mild, almost buttery flavor as the base of our fritters.
  • Shallot: Adds a surprisingly delicate sweetness and a hint of sharpness, brightening the entire mix.
  • Large eggs: They act as the all-important binder, holding everything together and giving the fritters structure.
  • Almond flour: Our gluten-free and low-carb alternative that makes the fritters tender yet sturdy without any wheat.
  • Goat cheese: A hit of creamy, tangy richness that elevates the fritters and adds depth of flavor.
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Both essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the veggies.
  • Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for frying, it creates that golden, crispy exterior with just enough richness.
  • Plain yogurt (for the sauce): The base of a cool, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the warm fritters.
  • Garlic cloves: Minced finely to infuse the yogurt sauce with a punchy bite.
  • Chives: Finely chopped for a gentle oniony note, adding freshness to the sauce.

How to Make Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto)

Step 1: Grate and Salt the Zucchini

Start by grating your zucchini and spreading it out in a bowl. Sprinkle with a little kosher salt and toss. The salt will naturally draw out moisture from the zucchini, making your fritters beautifully crisp rather than soggy. Let this sit for about 20 minutes while the magic happens.

Step 2: Squeeze Out the Liquid

After the zucchini has rested, gather it up in a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or even a clean kitchen towel. Twist and squeeze as much liquid as you can out—don’t be shy! The drier your zucchini, the crispier your final Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) will be. Return the squeezed zucchini to a clean bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Fritter Batter

To the squeezed zucchini, add your diced shallot, lightly beaten eggs, almond flour, crumbled goat cheese, and a generous dash of salt and pepper. Stir until you have a sticky but scoopable batter—the goat cheese will add creamy pockets in the final bites!

Step 4: Fry the Fritters

Heat the olive oil in a sturdy pan over medium heat. Scoop mounds of the zucchini mixture (about 1/4 cup each) into the pan, gently flattening with a spatula. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the fritters are golden brown and the edges are crisp. Drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Garlic, Chive Yogurt Sauce

While the fritters cool slightly, quickly stir together your yogurt, minced garlic, chives, salt, and pepper. This sauce is the cooling, tangy finishing touch that makes every crunchy bite absolutely irresistible.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your fritters on a platter, top each with a dollop of yogurt sauce, and dive in while they’re warm and crispy. These Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) are at their very best right out of the pan!

How to Serve Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto)

Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Brighten up your platter with a flurry of extra chopped chives, a pinch of flaky salt, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh zing. If you’re feeling extra, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or some microgreens will add beautiful color and a touch more flavor to your Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto).

Side Dishes

Pair these fritters with a crisp, simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon. Or, for something heartier, serve alongside grilled chicken or salmon. The versatility of Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) means you can go light or substantial—whatever suits your mood.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these fritters into finger food for a party by serving them mini-style with toothpicks and a little dip of sauce. Stack them high, layer with slivers of smoked salmon or roasted peppers for a brunch spread, or tuck them inside lettuce cups for a fun, handheld version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your fritters have cooled completely, pop them into an airtight container—if you’re stacking them, just slip a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making them fabulous for meal prepping.

Freezing

Want to make Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) ahead for a future busy week? Lay cooked, cooled fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to two months, and remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat fritters for 10 to 15 minutes until piping hot and lightly crisped at the edges. The microwave is speedier, though you’ll sacrifice a little crunch. Either way, they’ll taste just as good as the day you made them!

FAQs

Can I bake instead of frying these Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto)?

Absolutely! Simply place the shaped fritters on an oiled baking sheet, brush the tops with a little extra oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes per side, flipping once. They turn out delicious, just a bit less crispy than the classic pan-fried version.

Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can swap in coconut flour, but go easy—start with 1/4 cup, as it’s super absorbent. Mix and add more as needed for a thick batter. This keeps your fritters firmly in the gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly camp!

What’s the best way to get fritters extra crispy?

The big secret is squeezing out as much liquid as possible from the zucchini before mixing. Use a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or even very strong paper towels, and don’t be afraid to use a little muscle. The drier the zucchini, the crispier your fritters.

Can I make these Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) without goat cheese?

Of course! The goat cheese adds tang and moisture but can be left out or replaced with feta, ricotta, or even shredded cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor. Just keep an eye on texture—the cheese helps bind and enrich the fritters.

Are these fritters good for meal prep or packed lunches?

They’re fantastic for meal prep! Make a batch on the weekend, chill in the fridge, and reheat as needed. They travel well, so you can pack them for work or school lunches, and enjoy a fresh, healthy bite anywhere.

Final Thoughts

There’s never a wrong time to treat yourself and your loved ones to homemade Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto). Each bite is packed with flavor, crunch, and that irresistible creamy sauce. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becomes a staple in your kitchen rotation, too.

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Zucchini Fritters (gluten-free, low-carb, keto) Recipe

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5 from 21 reviews

These Zucchini Fritters are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that is gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.

  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10 fritters
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Zucchini Fritters:

  • 1 ½ pounds zucchini, about 2 to 3 medium to large zucchini
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup almond flour
  • ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
  • kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, for frying

Garlic, Chive Yogurt Sauce:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Grate the zucchini: Grate the zucchini and put into a bowl. Sprinkle with a bit of kosher salt, stir together, and let stand for 20 minutes.
  2. Drain the zucchini: Squeeze out the liquid from the zucchini, with either a nut milk bag or cheesecloth, then return to a clean bowl.
  3. Mix together: Add the shallot, eggs, almond flour, goat cheese, salt, and pepper. Then stir to combine.
  4. Fry the zucchini fritters: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Using either your hands or a spoon, dollop out mounds (approximately ¼ cup worth) of the mixture into the hot pan. Cook the fritters for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they’re lightly golden. Remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a paper towel to dab away any extra oil.
  5. Make the sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the yogurt, garlic, chives, salt, and pepper.
  6. Serve: Serve the fritters with a dollop of the sauce, then enjoy!

Notes

  • Storage tip: As with most fried food, these fritters will not be as crispy the following day. Let the zucchini fritters cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • For reheating: Thaw the fritters overnight in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. To reheat, you can use the microwave for convenience. But for a crispier texture, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, until warmed through.
  • For baking the fritters: Yes, you can bake them instead of pan-frying! While they won’t be quite as crispy, they still turn out delicious. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes per side, flipping halfway through.
  • If you’d like to use coconut flour instead of almond flour, start with ¼ cup and add more as needed. Coconut flour is highly absorbent so you can use less.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fritter
  • Calories: 113 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 167mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 39mg

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