Crispy Greek Zucchini Fritters with Feta (Kolokithokeftedes)
These traditional Greek zucchini fritters are packed with fresh herbs, salty feta, and crispy on the outside. A perfect appetizer or meze, served with cool yogurt.
- Prep10 min
- Cook25 min
- Total35 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
Kolokithokeftedes are a beloved Greek meze, especially popular in Crete, where fresh zucchini and mint shine. The key is to squeeze out as much water from the grated zucchini as possible, so the fritters hold together and fry up crispy, not soggy.
This version uses a simple combination of onion, spring onions, mint, parsley, and feta cheese, bound with eggs and breadcrumbs. You can fry them for a golden crust or bake them for a lighter option – both delicious.
Ingredients
Servings
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt, squeeze with your hands to remove excess water, and let drain for 30 minutes. Squeeze again firmly.
- In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, grated red onion, chopped spring onions, mint, parsley, eggs, crumbled feta, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until the mixture holds together. If too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
- Pour olive oil into a frying pan to a depth of about 1 cm and heat over medium-high heat. Dip a tablespoon in water, then scoop a spoonful of the mixture and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Repeat, dipping the spoon in water each time to prevent sticking, without overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the fritters for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- For a baked version: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a baking tray. Shape the mixture into small patties with your hands, place on the tray, brush the tops with olive oil, and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
- Serve the kolokithokeftedes hot or warm, with a side of cold, fresh yogurt.
💡 Tips
- Squeezing the zucchini well is crucial for crispy fritters; don't skip the resting time.
- If baking, flip the patties gently to avoid breaking.
- Serve with a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
Inspired by a recipe from My Greek Dish