If you’re hunting for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet fits neatly into your gluten-free, low-carb, and keto lifestyle, this Zucchini Fritters (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto) with Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine golden, crispy-edged fritters packed with fresh zucchini and tangy goat cheese, perfectly balanced by a cool, garlicky chive yogurt sauce that brings the whole plate to life. This recipe is not just simple and satisfying, but it’s also flexible and wholesome, making it a staple you’ll want to keep in your dinner rotation all year long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, each playing a vital role in creating that crave-worthy texture and flavor. From fresh zucchini for moisture and freshness to almond flour for that perfect low-carb bind, these ingredients keep things simple yet absolutely delicious.
- 1 ½ pounds zucchini: The star of the show, providing moisture, mild flavor, and bright green color.
- 1 shallot, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering the fritters.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder that holds everything together perfectly.
- ½ cup almond flour: Keeps the fritters gluten-free while offering a light, nutty taste.
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese: Brings tanginess and creamy richness to every bite.
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, for frying: Provides a golden crispiness and heart-healthy fats.
- 1 cup plain yogurt (for sauce): Adds a creamy base that cools and complements the fritters.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor in the yogurt sauce.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives: Fresh, mild onion note that brightens the sauce beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt & ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (for sauce): Balances and seasons the yogurt sauce perfectly.
How to Make Zucchini Fritters (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto) with Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Grate and Drain the Zucchini
Start by grating your zucchini into a large bowl and sprinkling it with kosher salt. This little trick is key because it draws out excess moisture, which helps the fritters crisp up rather than turn soggy. Let the zucchini sit for about 20 minutes and then squeeze it dry using a nut milk bag or cheesecloth. Getting rid of that watery content ensures each fritter holds together beautifully and gets golden on the outside.
Step 2: Mix the Fritter Ingredients
Now, toss your well-drained zucchini with finely diced shallots, lightly beaten eggs, almond flour, tangy goat cheese, and seasoning. Stir everything until it forms a cohesive batter — the mixture should be wet but scoopable. This blend brings a balance of creamy, crunchy, and fluffy textures that make these fritters irresistible.
Step 3: Fry to Perfection
Heat your olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Drop dollops of the mixture (about ¼ cup each) into the pan, then gently press them flat with a spatula. Cook them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown with crispy edges. This step gives you that perfect crunch outside and tender inside that makes zucchini fritters so addictive!
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce
While your fritters cook, stir together plain yogurt with minced garlic, chopped chives, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This sauce is the cool, creamy contrast that perfectly complements the warm, savory fritters, and it’s so simple to whip up while your kitchen fills with the enticing aroma of frying zucchini.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your golden zucchini fritters and dollop them generously with the garlic chive yogurt sauce. Each bite delivers a harmony of flavors, textures, and freshness that’s just brilliant. This Zucchini Fritters (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto) with Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce Recipe truly feels like a home-cooked hug on a plate.
How to Serve Zucchini Fritters (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto) with Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Make your fritters look as great as they taste by adding a sprinkling of fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top. A little extra cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil adds a lovely finishing touch that elevates the whole presentation.
Side Dishes
These fritters pair wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Think crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a simple tomato and cucumber salad. Since the fritters are quite filling, a vegetable-forward side keeps the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Stack the fritters high and use toothpicks to create mini fritter sandwiches with layers of the garlic chive yogurt sauce and a slice of smoked salmon or avocado. Or serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces like spicy harissa or lemon aioli for fun flavor twists.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, these zucchini fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To keep them from sticking together, placing parchment paper between fritter layers is a simple but effective trick.
Freezing
To freeze, first lay your fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer so they don’t stick together, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container where they can keep for up to two months. This makes for a quick, delicious snack whenever you need it.
Reheating
For the best texture, thaw your fritters in the fridge overnight or let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. While the microwave is convenient, reheating in a 375°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes will bring back that crispy crust you love. It’s worth the extra effort!
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour if you’re not strictly gluten-free or keto, but keep in mind it will alter the carb content and texture slightly. Almond flour gives a lovely nuttiness and keeps these fritters light and low-carb.
What if I don’t have goat cheese?
Feta or ricotta are great substitutes that maintain the creamy tanginess in the fritters. If you want a milder flavor, cream cheese works well too.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make vegan zucchini fritters, try replacing eggs with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground seed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use a plant-based yogurt for the sauce. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking the fritters at 400°F for about 12 to 15 minutes per side will produce a less crispy but still tasty version. Lightly oil the fritters and baking sheet for best results.
How can I make the fritters extra crispy?
Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini and cook over medium heat long enough for a golden crust to form before flipping. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, so the fritters fry rather than steam.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Zucchini Fritters (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto) with Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce Recipe enough if you want a dish that feels comforting, fresh, and just downright fun to eat. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight dinner or hosting friends, these fritters bring warmth, flavor, and simple wholesome ingredients to the table. Give them a try, and I promise they’ll soon become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
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Zucchini Fritters (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto) with Garlic Chive Yogurt Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 fritters
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Zucchini fritters are a delicious and healthy summer meal option that combines the fresh flavor of zucchini with savory shallots, goat cheese, and almond flour to create crispy, golden fritters. Served with a creamy garlic and chive yogurt sauce, these gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly fritters are perfect for a light dinner or snack. The recipe is straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and offers options for frying or baking.
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
- Grate the zucchini: Grate the zucchini and place it in a bowl. Sprinkle with kosher salt, stir gently, and let it stand for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Drain the zucchini: Using a nut milk bag or cheesecloth, squeeze out all the liquid from the zucchini thoroughly, then transfer the squeezed zucchini back to a clean bowl.
- Mix together: Add the finely diced shallot, lightly beaten eggs, almond flour, crumbled goat cheese, kosher salt, and ground black pepper to the zucchini. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Fry the zucchini fritters: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Using your hands or a spoon, scoop approximately ¼ cup mounds of the mixture into the hot oil. Flatten each mound gently with a spatula. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fritters are lightly golden and crispy. Remove fritters and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, combine plain yogurt, minced garlic, chopped chives, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Serve: Plate the zucchini fritters and top or serve alongside with a generous dollop of the garlic chive yogurt sauce. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Storage tip: Allow fritters to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Freeze fritters individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Microwave for convenience or bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Baking option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes per side with a light oil spray for a less oily alternative to frying.
- Flour substitution: Coconut flour can be used instead of almond flour, starting with ¼ cup and adjusting as needed because it absorbs more moisture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American