Zucchini Patties – Better Than Meat!

Zucchini Patties are a delicious and healthy vegetarian alternative to meat-based dishes, offering a satisfying texture, savory flavor, and a beautiful golden crunch. Packed with fresh vegetables and gooey cheese, these patties are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. Best of all, they’re quick to prepare and require only a handful of simple ingredients.

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, grated

1 medium carrot, grated

1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or your favorite cheese like cheddar, gouda, or feta for a twist)

2 eggs, lightly beaten

3–4 tablespoons chopped green onion

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional:

1 clove garlic, minced or

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Method of Preparation

Prepare the Vegetables

Grate the zucchinis and carrot using a box grater or food processor. Zucchinis can be quite watery, so place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture. This step ensures the patties hold together and cook evenly without becoming soggy.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, carrot, shredded cheese, eggs, chopped green onion, salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well incorporated. It should be moist but not dripping wet.

Shape the Patties

Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small, round patties. About 2-3 inches wide and ½-inch thick is a good size for even cooking.

Cook the Patties

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a light coating of oil (olive oil or vegetable oil works well). Place patties in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the patties warm. They’re delicious on their own, but also pair beautifully with:

Sour cream

Greek yogurt dip (with lemon and herbs)

Fresh tomato salsa

A crisp green salad

Inside a sandwich or wrap

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.

Q: Can I freeze zucchini patties?

Absolutely. Freeze cooked patties on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven—no need to thaw.

Q: Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the recipe contains no flour or breadcrumbs, making it naturally gluten-free. For extra firmness, you can optionally add 1–2 tablespoons of gluten-free flour or almond flour.

Q: Can I use other vegetables?

Certainly. Feel free to experiment with grated sweet potato, finely chopped spinach, or corn for a variety of flavors and nutrients.

Q: What kind of cheese works best?

Mozzarella gives a melty texture, while cheddar adds sharpness. Feta provides a tangy, crumbly bite. Choose based on your flavor preference.

Tips for Success

Squeeze that zucchini! This is the most important step for achieving crisp, cohesive patties.

Don’t overmix. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light.

Use a good non-stick pan or a well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.

Customize the seasoning. Try adding Italian herbs, chili flakes, or a pinch of cumin for variety.

Conclusion

Zucchini Patties are a crowd-pleasing, healthy comfort food that even meat lovers will crave. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adapted for different dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a tasty meatless Monday dish or a way to use up fresh produce, these patties are a go-to recipe that proves vegetables can be better than meat.

Enjoy!