Zucchini Pancakes

Zucchini pancakes are a delightful and versatile dish that's perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack. These savory pancakes are made with shredded zucchini, mixed with eggs, cheese, and a blend of herbs to create a flavorful batter. Lightly fried to a golden brown, they're crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The addition of garlic and fresh herbs provides a burst of aromatic flavor, while a dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy finish. They're easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time. Zucchini pancakes offer a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. They're also easily customizable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether served on their own or paired with side dishes, these pancakes are sure to please. Perfect for every occasion, zucchini pancakes are a family favorite and a must-try recipe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 small zucchini
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 25 grams cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons sour cream

Spices and Herbs

• 1 clove garlic, minced
• A handful of fresh herbs, chopped (such as parsley or dill)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Grate it into rough shreds and place into a large bowl.
2. Similarly, grate 25 grams of cheese and add it to the bowl with the zucchini.
3. Crack the egg into a separate bowl and beat it slightly before pouring over the grated zucchini and cheese mixture.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the bowl, along with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper.
5. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, forming a cohesive batter.
6. Mince a clove of garlic and finely chop a handful of your preferred fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill.
7. Stir the garlic and herbs into the zucchini mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
8. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a light layer of oil.
9. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet, shaping them into small pancakes.
10. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until each pancake is golden brown and firm.
11. Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
12. Arrange the pancakes on a serving platter. Add a dollop of sour cream to each one.
13. Sprinkle a few extra fresh herbs over the top for garnish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
14. Serve these delicious zucchini pancakes while they're hot for the best experience.
15. Enjoy as a standalone treat or as part of a larger meal.
16. Consider adding a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables to complement the dish.
17. Zucchini pancakes pair wonderfully with a light yogurt dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice.
18. Feel free to experiment by adding different cheeses or additional spices to the batter for variation.
19. Make sure the skillet is hot and well-oiled to achieve the signature crispy texture.
20. Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and reheat in a pan before serving again.

Tips

• Squeezing out excess moisture: After grating the zucchini, squeeze out any excess moisture to ensure the pancakes stay firm.
• Cheese options: Swap out cheeses like feta or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
• Multigrain flour: Consider substituting flour with whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 6 grams
• Fats: 8 grams
• Carbs: 12 grams

Variations

• Vegan option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and dairy-free cheese.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate corn or finely chopped bell peppers for a colorful, nutrient-rich addition.
• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Accompany with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Serve with a side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce for dipping.
• Pair with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lime.

Best Places

• Chez Panisse - Renowned for its farm-to-table approach. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
• Le Meurice - Offers classic French cuisine in an opulent setting. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Gaggan - Celebrated for innovative Indian cuisine. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Central - Famous for dishes inspired by Peruvian biodiversity. Location: Av Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco, Lima, Peru.
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• The Ledbury - Celebrated for fine dining with seasonal ingredients. Location: 127 Ledbury Road, London, UK.
• Narisawa - Combines Japanese techniques with sustainability. Location: 2-6-15 Minami Aoyama, Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
• Per Se - Offers exquisite meals with spectacular New York views. Location: 10 Columbus Circle, New York, USA.
• Quintonil - Highlights Mexican flavors with modern twists. Location: Av Isaac Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Piazza Duomo - Blends Italian tradition with avant-garde presentation. Location: Piazza Risorgimento 4, Alba, Italy.