Keep zucchini aside for 30 minutes after grating and mixing with salt.
Squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini.
Combine and mix spring onion greens, mint leaves, dill leaves, basil leaves, lime zest, cumin powder, chilli flakes, feta cheese, and eggs.
Gently mix in all-purpose flour to create the Kolokythokeftedes mixture.
Add spoonfuls of the mixture to the hot oil and shape using a spoon.
Fry both sides until golden and the Kolokythokeftedes are ready.
Ingredients
Directions
Keep zucchini aside for 30 minutes after grating and mixing with salt.
Squeeze excess moisture from the zucchini.
Combine and mix spring onion greens, mint leaves, dill leaves, basil leaves, lime zest, cumin powder, chilli flakes, feta cheese, and eggs.
Gently mix in all-purpose flour to create the Kolokythokeftedes mixture.
Add spoonfuls of the mixture to the hot oil and shape using a spoon.
Fry both sides until golden and the Kolokythokeftedes are ready.
Kolokithokeftedes can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a vegetarian main course. They are often accompanied by tzatziki, a yogurt and cucumber sauce, or skordalia, a garlic and potato dip.
This dish is a popular summer dish in Greece when zucchini is abundant, and it is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. It is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
Tips
- Squeeze out as much moisture from the grated zucchini as possible to avoid the mixture from becoming too watery. This will help the fritters hold their shape and turn crispy.
- To add more flavor, try to use fresh herbs and high-quality feta cheese.
- Use all-purpose flour sparingly to keep the mixture from becoming too dry. Start with a small amount and add more if necessary.
- Fry the kolokithokeftedes in hot oil to get a crispy exterior. Make sure that the oil is hot enough to avoid the fritters from soaking up too much oil.
- Use a spoon to shape the fritters in the hot oil. This will help you create a round shape with a uniform thickness.
- If you want to make your kolokithokeftedes healthier, you can bake them in the oven instead of frying them. This will help you reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe.
- Be creative with the seasoning. You can experiment with different spices and herbs, such as oregano or parsley, to give your fritters a unique flavor.
- If the mixture feels too sticky to shape, you can add a bit more flour to make it easier to handle.
- To make your kolokithokeftedes even more authentic, use Greek olive oil to fry them.
- Serve the fritters hot with tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges. They are best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
FAQs
Q. What is the traditional way to serve kolokithokeftedes?
A: Kolokithokeftedes are traditionally served as an appetizer, accompanied by tzatziki, a yogurt and cucumber dip, or skordalia, a garlic and potato dip.
Q. Can I substitute other vegetables for zucchini in this recipe?
A: While zucchini is the traditional vegetable used for kolokithokeftedes, other vegetables such as grated carrots or potatoes can be used as a substitute.
Q. How do I ensure that the kolokithokeftedes turn out crispy?
A: The key to getting crispy kolokithokeftedes is to squeeze out as much excess moisture from the zucchini as possible before mixing it with the other ingredients. It is also important to fry the patties in hot oil until they are golden brown.
Q. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?
A: Kolokithokeftedes are best served fresh and hot, but you can make them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or on a stovetop griddle. Be sure to reheat them thoroughly to ensure that they are hot all the way through.
Q. How long do kolokithokeftedes stay fresh, and how do I store them?
A: Kolokithokeftedes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or on a stovetop griddle until heated through.
Q. Can I freeze kolokithokeftedes, and if so, how do I thaw and reheat them?
A: Yes, kolokithokeftedes can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place them in the oven or on a stovetop griddle until heated through.
Q. Can I make a vegan version of kolokithokeftedes by omitting the eggs and cheese?
A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of kolokithokeftedes by omitting the eggs and cheese and using a vegan alternative such as nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Q. What is the best oil to use for frying kolokithokeftedes?
A: The best oil for frying kolokithokeftedes is a high-temperature oil such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
Q. How can I adjust the seasoning to suit my personal tastes?
A: Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste by adding more or less of the herbs, spices, and cheese to suit your palate.
Q. Can I bake the kolokithokeftedes instead of frying them to make them healthier?
A: Yes, you can bake the kolokithokeftedes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them once halfway through, to make them a bit healthier. They won’t be as crispy as the fried version, but they will still be delicious.