Crispy Zucchini & Corn Fritters (Lime Crema)

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful snack or a light meal, these Crispy Zucchini & Corn Fritters with Lime Crema are exactly what you need. Bursting with fresh summer flavors and a satisfying crunch, this recipe brings together the subtle sweetness of corn and the mild earthiness of zucchini in the crispiest, most irresistible fritters. The tangy lime crema adds a perfect zing, elevating every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something fresh and crispy, these fritters will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes these Crispy Zucchini & Corn Fritters (Lime Crema) stand out? First, the combination of grated zucchini and sweet corn kernels creates a unique texture that’s both tender and crunchy. The addition of cornmeal alongside all-purpose flour ensures a perfectly crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Toss in a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a touch of garlic powder, and you’ve got layers of flavor that make every bite memorable.

Another reason this recipe is a must-try is its versatility and ease. It requires simple ingredients you likely already have at home, making it a quick go-to for any day of the week. The lime crema is a refreshing twist on the usual sour cream dip, adding brightness and a subtle herbal note from fresh cilantro. Plus, these fritters are wonderful as a snack, appetizer, or paired with a fresh salad for a light dinner.

If you love corn dishes, you might also want to check out the Takis Elote Street Corn Cups for another fun, flavorful way to enjoy corn in your meals!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

How To Make Crispy Zucchini & Corn Fritters (Lime Crema)

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by grating your zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial to help the fritters crisp up nicely and avoid sogginess.

Step 2: Mix the Fritter Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini and corn kernels. Add the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, grated Parmesan cheese, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Crack in the eggs and mix everything thoroughly until you have a thick batter. The combination of flours and cheese will give the fritters a lovely texture and flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Proper oil temperature is key for achieving that coveted crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Step 4: Fry the Fritters

Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the batter and carefully place them into the hot oil. Flatten each fritter slightly with the back of a spatula to ensure even cooking. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.

Step 5: Drain and Keep Warm

Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep them warm in a low oven while you fry the remaining batter.

Step 6: Make the Lime Crema

In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. This creamy, tangy sauce will perfectly complement the fritters’ crispy texture and sweet corn flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy zucchini and corn fritters hot with a generous dollop of lime crema on top or on the side for dipping. These fritters pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a side to grilled meats and seafood.

Expert Tips

• Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible to prevent soggy fritters.
• Use a combination of cornmeal and flour for the best crispy texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; this ensures even cooking and prevents the temperature from dropping.
• If you want extra crispiness, place cooked fritters on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid steaming.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
• To check if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small bit of batter in; it should sizzle immediately.
• Serve these fritters with an easy veggie dip recipe for additional dipping options and flavor variety.

Variations and Customizations

• Add herbs: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the batter for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for some heat.
• Cheese swap: Use crumbled feta or cheddar cheese instead of Parmesan for a richer taste.
• Grain-free option: Substitute flour and cornmeal with almond flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free twist.
• Vegetable mix: Add grated carrot or finely chopped bell peppers to the mix for added color and nutrients.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy. The lime crema should be kept separately in a sealed container and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

FAQ

Can I use frozen corn kernels for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen corn works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the batter to keep the fritters from becoming watery.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute Parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago. For a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?

While frying gives you the crispiest texture, you can bake the fritters at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

Test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into the pan. If it sizzles and bubbles immediately, the oil is ready. If the batter sinks or the oil isn’t bubbling, give it a minute longer to heat up.

Conclusion

These Crispy Zucchini & Corn Fritters (Lime Crema) are a shining example of how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. Their crunchy exterior paired with a tender interior and the zesty lime crema makes them an irresistible treat. Easy to whip up and packed with fresh flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Whip up a batch today and enjoy the perfect balance of texture and taste in every bite!

Share on Pinterest