🇬🇷 Greece · Food
Kolokithokeftedes: Crispy Greek Zucchini Fritters
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇬🇷 GRKolokithokeftedes are delectable Greek zucchini fritters, light and crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful within. Packed with fresh herbs like mint and dill, tangy feta cheese, and grated zucchini, these savory bites are a quintessential meze, perfect for sharing or as a delightful appetizer.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare zucchini: Grate 3 medium-sized zucchinis (about 700g total) coarsely. Place the grated zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel; this is crucial for crispy fritters.
- 2
Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, 1/2 cup (120g) crumbled feta cheese, 2 finely chopped scallions (or 1/4 cup finely chopped onion), 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, and 1 large egg. Mix well.
- 3
Add dry ingredients: Sift in 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Season with 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix, as this can make the fritters tough.
- 4
Form fritters: Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully drop spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon.
- 5
Fry until golden: Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Ensure the oil temperature is consistent; if it's too low, the fritters will be greasy, too high and they'll burn before cooking through.
- 6
Drain and serve: Remove the cooked fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately, traditionally with a dollop of cool tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to squeeze the zucchini for Kolokithokeftedes?+
Squeezing out as much liquid as possible from the grated zucchini is vital to prevent soggy fritters. Excess moisture will lead to a soft texture and prevent them from becoming crispy, so don't skip this step.
Can I bake Kolokithokeftedes instead of frying them?+
While traditionally fried for crispiness, you can bake them for a lighter option. Place formed fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
What other herbs can I use in Kolokithokeftedes?+
Beyond mint and dill, which are classic, parsley or oregano can also be used, or a combination. Fresh herbs are key for their vibrant flavor, so try to use them generously.
How can I ensure my Kolokithokeftedes are crispy?+
Aside from thoroughly draining the zucchini, ensure your oil is hot enough (around 175-180°C / 350°F) before adding the fritters. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasiness.
🇬🇷 GRMundo Match
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