Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Yogurt Sauce – A Budget-Friendly Delight

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Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor—these Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are the ultimate cheap, easy, and delicious meal or snack. Whether you need a quick appetizer, a light lunch, or a creative way to use up extra zucchini, these fritters have got you covered!

Plus, they’re made with simple, affordable ingredients, making them the perfect budget-friendly dish.

🥒 Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Fritters

✔ Crispy & Flavorful – Golden brown on the outside, soft and tender inside.
✔ Super Budget-Friendly – Uses cheap pantry staples.
✔ Vegetarian & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein.
✔ Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead & reheat perfectly!

🛒 What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy zucchini fritters:

For the Fritters:

✅ 2 medium zucchinis, grated
✅ 1 tsp salt (for draining water)
✅ 1 egg
✅ ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
✅ ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds flavor!)
✅ 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ ½ tsp garlic powder
✅ ½ tsp onion powder
✅ 1 tsp baking powder (helps them stay light & fluffy!)
✅ 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

✅ ½ cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
✅ 1 small garlic clove, minced
✅ 1 tbsp lemon juice
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil

👉 Shortcut Tip: Swap homemade sauce for store-bought tzatziki!

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1️⃣ Grate the zucchinis and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and let sit for 10 minutes (this helps draw out moisture).
3️⃣ Squeeze out as much water as possible—less moisture = crispier fritters!

Step 2: Mix the Batter

4️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk egg, flour, Parmesan, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder.
5️⃣ Add the squeezed zucchini and mix until combined.

Step 3: Cook the Fritters

6️⃣ Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7️⃣ Scoop about 2 tbsp of batter per fritter into the pan, flattening slightly.
8️⃣ Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
9️⃣ Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce

🔟 In a small bowl, mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil.
🔟 Serve chilled alongside the hot fritters.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor!

💰 Cost Breakdown (Estimated per Serving)

• Zucchini (2 medium) – $1.50
• Egg (1) – $0.25
• Flour (½ cup) – $0.20
• Parmesan cheese (¼ cup) – $0.50
• Greek yogurt (½ cup) – $0.75
• Seasonings & oil – $0.50

✅ Total cost per serving: ~$1.25

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These fritters pair perfectly with:

🥗 Simple Side Salad – Easy homemade dressing
🍚 Rice Pilaf – Budget-friendly seasoned rice
🍞 Pita Bread or Naan – Easy homemade flatbread

❓ Common Questions

Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Cook them as directed, then store in an airtight container:
✔ Fridge: Up to 4 days, reheat in a skillet or air fryer for crispiness.
✔ Freezer: Up to 2 months—just reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.

Can I Bake Instead of Fry?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Less oil, still crispy!

Can I Use a Different Veggie?

Yep! Swap zucchini for grated carrots, sweet potatoes, or even cauliflower!

🛒 Where to Buy Cheap Ingredients

💡 Want to save even more? Check out:
✔ Farmers Markets – Cheap, fresh zucchini in season!
✔ Aldi & Walmart – Best for budget pantry staples.
✔ Costco or Sam’s Club – Bulk flour, cheese, and yogurt for less.

🔗 More money-saving grocery tips:

• How to Grocery Shop on a Budget
• Best Cheap Pantry Staples

🌟 Final Thoughts: A Budget-Friendly, Crispy Delight!

These Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Yogurt Sauce prove that cheap ingredients can create amazing, flavorful meals. Whether you serve them as a snack, side, or main dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

🔥 Tried it? Let us know in the comments below!

📌 Loved this recipe? Pin it for later!

🔗 More budget-friendly meal ideas:

• 25 Cheap & Easy Vegetarian Meals
• 10 High-Protein Budget Dinners
• How to Cook Gourmet Vegan Meals on a Budget