Greek Style Kolokithokeftedes Recipe – Zucchini Fritters
Description:
These crispy, golden-brown Greek-style zucchini fritters, also known as Kolokithokeftedes, are a delightful vegetarian treat that combines the fresh flavors of zucchini, paneer, mint, and spring onions. Perfect for serving as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these fritters are light, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The addition of flaxseed powder, oats, and whole wheat breadcrumbs helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring a satisfying crunch and texture.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Greek
Course: Snack
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow Zucchini (coarsely grated) | 2 |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1/2 cup (crumbled) |
| Nutmeg | 1 teaspoon |
| Spring Onion (bulb and greens) | 4 sprigs (chopped) |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 3 sprigs (finely chopped) |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1/2 cup (for binding) |
| Flax Seed Powder (Flax Meal) | 3 tablespoons |
| Whole Wheat Bread Crumbs | 4 tablespoons |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | For cooking |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by prepping all the ingredients. Coarsely grate the yellow zucchini and place it in a large bowl. Crumble the paneer and chop the spring onions and mint leaves finely. -
Mix the Ingredients:
In the same bowl, add the grated zucchini, crumbled paneer, chopped spring onions, and mint leaves. Then, add the nutmeg, oats, flax seed powder, and whole wheat breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly combined. The mixture should be firm enough to shape into patties. If needed, add a bit more breadcrumbs or oats to achieve the right consistency. -
Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into small portions and use your fingers to shape them into flat, round patties. Make sure they are of even size for uniform cooking. -
Fry the Fritters:
Heat a flat skillet over medium heat and drizzle a little olive oil to coat the surface. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring they do not touch each other. Fry them on both sides until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. -
Serve:
Once the fritters are done, remove them from the heat and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve the Greek Style Kolokithokeftedes (Zucchini Fritters) as an appetizer, or enjoy them as a tea-time snack. They pair wonderfully with a refreshing Greek Yogurt Dip. For a complete meal, serve them alongside herbed butter garlic quinoa and spinach ricotta balls in garlic tomato basil sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Calcium | 70 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
Tips for the Best Kolokithokeftedes:
- If the zucchini has a lot of moisture, squeeze out the excess liquid before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid sogginess.
- You can substitute the paneer with feta cheese for a tangier flavor.
- For a spicier version, add finely chopped green chilies to the mixture.
- These fritters can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in a skillet before serving.
Enjoy the crispy, herb-packed goodness of these Greek-style zucchini fritters, a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the essence of Greek cuisine right to your table. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as a light meal!
