Baked Zucchini Fritters with Creamy Dipping Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Zucchini fritters are a crispy, flavorful snack that’s perfect for any time of day. Coated in a crunchy breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, they come with a zesty dipping sauce that complements the mild zucchini beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 whole egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 2 small zucchini
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400º F. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and spray it with non-stick spray. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Slice the zucchini into approximately 1/4 inch thick slices.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and beaten egg.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, and taco seasoning.
5. Step 5: Dip each zucchini slice first into the egg mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mix.
6. Step 6: Arrange the coated zucchini slices on the prepared wire rack and bake for 20 minutes, until they turn golden brown.
7. Step 7: While the fritters bake, combine the sour cream, salsa, and ranch dressing to make the dipping sauce. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
8. Step 8: Remove the fritters from the oven and serve immediately with the prepared dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, try adding a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
• You can substitute taco seasoning with Cajun or Italian seasoning to change the flavor profile.
• Serve with a side of guacamole or a squeeze of fresh lime for added zest.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 375º F for 5-7 minutes to retain their crispiness. The dipping sauce can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I fry the zucchini fritters instead of baking them?

Yes, you can shallow-fry the fritters in a little oil over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides. Baking is a healthier option but frying gives a nice texture as well.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This helps replicate the tang and acidity of buttermilk.

Baked Zucchini Fritters with Creamy Dipping Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 51 reviews

Crispy and flavorful zucchini fritters baked to golden perfection, served with a tangy and creamy dipping sauce made from sour cream, salsa, and ranch dressing. A healthy and delicious appetizer or snack that combines tender zucchini with a crunchy seasoned breadcrumb coating.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Zucchini Fritters

• 2 small zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 whole egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning

Dipping Sauce

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and spray it with non-stick spray to prepare for baking the fritters.
2. Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchinis into approximately 1/4 inch thick slices to ensure even cooking and crispness.
3. Make egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and beaten egg until well combined to create a flavorful soak for the zucchini slices.
4. Prepare breadcrumb coating: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, and taco seasoning, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasoning.
5. Coat zucchini slices: Dip each zucchini slice first into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
6. Arrange and bake: Place the coated zucchini slices on the prepared wire rack over the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the fritters turn golden brown and crisp.
7. Prepare dipping sauce: While the fritters bake, combine sour cream, salsa, and ranch dressing in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve for a creamy and zesty dip.
8. Serve: Once the zucchini fritters are done baking, remove them from the oven and serve immediately alongside the chilled dipping sauce for a perfect contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Notes

• Using a wire rack allows air circulation which helps the fritters become crispier during baking.
• You can substitute taco seasoning with other spice blends like Cajun or Italian seasoning to vary the flavor profile.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Make sure to pat the zucchini slices dry with a paper towel before dipping for better crispiness.
• The dipping sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 2 days.

Keywords: Zucchini fritters, baked zucchini, healthy appetizer, veggie fritters, crispy zucchini, dipping sauce