There’s something truly uplifting about the scent of fresh zucchini mingling with nutty almond flour wafting through the kitchen. On a whim, I decided to reinvent the classic fritter, and the result was these delightful Zucchini and Almond Flour Fritters—easy to make and bursting with flavor!
Perfect for busy weeknights, these fritters come together in a flash and are a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying those comfort food cravings. You won’t believe how simple it is to transform leftover zucchini into a crunchy, satisfying snack or side dish that the whole family will love.
Whether you’re enjoying them dipped in your favorite sauce, paired with a fresh salad, or just on their own, these fritters offer a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. So grab your grater and let’s get cooking—you’re about to fall in love with a dish that’s as good for you as it is delicious!
Why will you love these Zucchini Bagels?
Deliciously guilt-free: Packed with fresh zucchini and almond flour, these fritters are a wholesome alternative that satisfies without the extra calories.
Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can have these scrumptious fritters ready, making them ideal for those busy weeknights.
Versatile enjoyment: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them straight from the oven for a delightful snack.
Crowd pleaser: These fritters are perfect for family dinners, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Healthy swap: A fantastic way to sneak in vegetables, they’re a healthier option for fast-food cravings.
Zucchini Bagels Ingredients
For the Fritters
• 2 cups shredded zucchini – ensures a moist base with a nutritious punch.
• 1 ½ cups almond flour – provides a delightful nutty flavor while keeping this dish gluten-free.
• 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients together for a perfect fritter consistency.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – helps achieve a light and fluffy texture with each bite.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a savory depth of flavor to enhance your fritters.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic for a full-bodied taste.
• ½ teaspoon salt – brings out the natural flavors of the zucchini and seasonings.
• ½ teaspoon pepper – adds just the right amount of heat to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons shredded cheese (optional) – a hint of richness to take your fritters to the next level.
For Topping
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional) – adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal for your Zucchini Bagels.
How to Make Zucchini and Almond Flour Fritters
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and warm for the fritters. This temperature will help achieve that perfect golden brown color we all love.
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Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded zucchini, 1 ½ cups of almond flour, 2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Stir together until well blended, creating a thick and hearty mixture.
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Add cheese (optional): If you want a cheesy twist, gently fold in 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
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Shape fritters: Scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten each scoop to form fritters; aim for about ½ inch thick for even cooking.
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Top with seeds: For an added crunch and beautiful finish, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top of each fritter, if you’re using them. They not only taste great but also look lovely!
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fritters are golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges.
Optional: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful snack!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Zucchini Bagels
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Grate Thoroughly: Ensure your zucchini is shredded finely to avoid excess moisture. This helps in achieving the perfect fritter texture without sogginess.
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Draining Zucchini: After grating, squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel. This prevents the fritters from becoming too wet during baking.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with spices! A pinch of paprika or Italian herbs can elevate the flavor profile in your Zucchini Bagels, making them even more enjoyable.
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Uniform Sizes: Scoop and flatten fritters to be of equal size. This guarantees even cooking and that delightful golden-brown finish you’re striving for.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the fritters during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while ensuring a crispy exterior.
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Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness before serving.
What to Serve with Zucchini and Almond Flour Fritters?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly accompany these crispy, savory bites.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, balancing the savory fritters beautifully.
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Creamy Garlic Dip: Serve with a rich garlic dip for a luscious contrast that enhances the flavor of the fritters.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweet, caramelized notes of roasted sweet potatoes create a lovely flavor contrast, enriching your meal.
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Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs offers a wholesome, protein-packed side that complements the fritters seamlessly. It’s a great way to add texture and nutrition.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw, seasoned with zesty dressing, provides a refreshing crunch and cuts through the richness of the fritters.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt-based sauce gives a refreshing and herby lift to the fritters, making every bite irresistible.
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Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with a twist of lemon is a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage choice that perfectly cleanses the palate.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate avocado mousse that provides a satisfying end to your meal with its luscious creaminess, while being guilt-free!
Storage Tips for Zucchini Bagels
Fridge: Store leftover Zucchini Bagels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer.
Reheating: To retain their crispiness, reheat the fritters in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to warm thoroughly without losing their texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Zucchini and Almond Flour Fritters are a lifesaver for meal prep lovers! You can easily prepare the fritter mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just mix the shredded zucchini, almond flour, eggs, baking powder, and seasonings, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready to scoop right before cooking. If you want to take it a step further, you can also shape the fritters and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply pop them in the oven, and you’ll have perfectly crispy fritters, just as delicious as if they were made fresh!
Zucchini Bagels Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and adjust these fritters to suit your taste buds while keeping that mouthwatering essence intact!
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Cheese Swap: Substitute with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option that still melts beautifully. Perfect for plant-based eaters!
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Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty kick that amps up the flavor profile.
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Herb Infusion: Fold in fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or dill, to enhance the freshness and aromatic qualities.
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Nutty Twist: Use coconut flour instead of almond flour for a slightly sweet and unique texture that’s equally delightful.
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Veggie Boost: Mix in chopped bell peppers or finely diced carrots for extra crunch and color that brightens your fritters.
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Egg Alternative: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version that holds up well.
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Make It Sweet: Transform these fritters into a dessert by adding cinnamon and a splash of vanilla extract, then serve with a dollop of yogurt!
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Grain-Free: For a grain-free option, swap the almond flour with a blend of chickpea flour or sun-dried tomato flour for a unique twist.
These suggestions not only broaden the flavors and textures but also cater to various dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these delightful Zucchini Bagels!
Zucchini and Almond Flour Fritters Recipe FAQs
What kind of zucchini should I use for the fritters?
Absolutely! Choose firm zucchini with a glossy skin, free from dark spots or blemishes. Look for ones that feel heavy for their size and are under 8 inches long for the best flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover fritters?
For sure! Store your leftover Zucchini and Almond Flour Fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow them to cool completely before sealing; this helps maintain their crispiness!
Can I freeze the fritters? How do I do it?
You bet! To freeze your fritters, first, allow them to cool. Lay them out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for about 1-2 hours. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag, making sure to squeeze out any excess air. They can be stored for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, there’s no need to thaw—just bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.
What if my fritters turn out soggy?
No worries—this can happen! If you find that your fritters are too wet, make sure to properly drain the shredded zucchini before mixing it with your other ingredients. After shredding, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Additionally, double-check that you’re not adding too much liquid from your eggs; consider using one egg instead of two if the mixture seems too wet.
Are these fritters suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very much so! Since the recipe is made with almond flour instead of traditional flour, these fritters are gluten-free, making them a great choice for anyone avoiding gluten in their diet. However, always check labels on your ingredients to ensure they’re free from cross-contamination.
Can I add other ingredients to customize the fritters?
Definitely! Feel free to personalize your fritters by mixing in other vegetables like grated carrots or adding spices such as cumin or paprika. You can even experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley to elevate the flavor profile. The more the merrier—get creative in the kitchen!
Zucchini Bagels: Deliciously Guilt-Free and Easy to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for the fritters.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded zucchini, almond flour, eggs, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- If desired, gently fold in shredded cheese for extra flavor.
- Scoop the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flatten to form fritters about ½ inch thick.
- Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy.