These golden brown zucchini and sweet potato fritters are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make in about 35 minutes. Combining shredded zucchini, sweet potato, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs, these fritters make a delicious vegetarian meal or side dish. They are naturally gluten-free and pair perfectly with a creamy, herbed Greek yogurt sauce that adds a refreshing tang.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

• 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1-2 medium zucchini)

• 1 cup shredded sweet potato (1 small, peeled or unpeeled)

• 1/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided

• 2 large eggs

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1/3 cup fine cornmeal

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1/3 cup olive oil

For the Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek or regular yogurt (or sour cream)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the yogurt sauce by whisking together all sauce ingredients except salt and pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve (up to 3 days).

2. Line a large bowl with paper towels. Add shredded zucchini, sweet potato, and onion. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and gently mix. Top with another paper towel and press to absorb moisture. Wring out as much liquid as possible over the sink.

3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, garlic, parsley, mint, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Fold in the vegetable mixture, then stir in cornmeal and cornstarch until combined.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the fritter mixture (avoiding excess liquid) and flatten with a spatula in the hot oil. Cook 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

5. Serve fritters warm with the herbed yogurt sauce.

Notes

• Leftovers store in the fridge up to 1 week; reheat in microwave, air fryer, or oven.

• Freeze cooled fritters up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.

• You can substitute regular potatoes for sweet potato, and use flour instead of cornmeal/cornstarch if preferred.

Nutritional Information (per 2 fritters with sauce)

• Calories: 173

• Fat: 11.3g

• Carbohydrates: 14.3g

• Sugars: 2.9g

• Protein: 4.9g

• Sodium: 239mg

• Cholesterol: 63mg

Enjoy these crispy, veggie-packed fritters with a deliciously creamy sauce that brightens every bite!

Flavor and Texture Balance

What makes these fritters stand out is their expertly balanced texture and flavor. The zucchini and sweet potato bring a gentle sweetness and earthiness that complement each other well. Zucchini adds moisture and a subtle vegetal flavor, while sweet potato contributes natural sweetness and a slightly denser texture. The finely chopped onion and minced garlic introduce savory undertones and aromatic depth, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.

The fresh parsley and mint bring brightness and herbaceous notes that lift the dish and prevent it from feeling heavy. The cornmeal and cornstarch in the batter are key to achieving that satisfying golden crust and crispy exterior. When cooked, the fritters develop a crunchy outside that contrasts beautifully with the tender, moist vegetable interior. The black pepper and salt seasoning rounds out the taste, providing a subtle kick and enhancing the natural flavors of the vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Considerations

These zucchini and sweet potato fritters are a nutrient-dense option packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the fresh vegetables. Zucchini is low in calories but rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium, promoting overall health and hydration. Sweet potatoes add beta-carotene, vitamin A, and complex carbohydrates, contributing to energy and immune support.

With a moderate amount of protein from eggs and yogurt in the sauce, this dish offers a well-rounded meal option for vegetarians. The use of olive oil, a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, enhances satiety and flavor without unnecessary saturated fats. Naturally gluten-free, these fritters can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Additionally, the ability to substitute ingredients, such as using regular potatoes or flour, provides flexibility for personal preferences or pantry availability.

Preparation Tips and Cooking Technique

Preparation starts with properly managing the moisture content in the shredded vegetables—a crucial step for crisp fritters. Salting the zucchini, sweet potato, and onion draws out excess water, which is then pressed out using paper towels. Removing this moisture prevents sogginess and helps the fritters hold together during cooking.

The batter is mixed carefully, folding in the vegetable mixture with eggs, herbs, cornmeal, and cornstarch. These binding ingredients contribute to the structure and help maintain a crisp exterior. Cooking in olive oil over medium-high heat allows the fritters to brown evenly and develop a crunchy crust while cooking the vegetables thoroughly inside. Flattening each scoop of batter with a spatula ensures even cooking and maximizes surface area for crispness.

Once cooked, transferring fritters to paper towels helps absorb any excess oil, keeping them light and not greasy. Serving them warm preserves their crisp texture and ensures the yogurt sauce complements the fritters perfectly with its cool, tangy creaminess.

The Creamy Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce

A highlight of this dish is the garlic herb yogurt sauce, which brings a fresh, tangy element that perfectly balances the fritters’ savory flavors. Made from plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, the sauce is enriched with fresh parsley, mint, lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey. The garlic powder adds subtle depth without overwhelming the dish.

This sauce enhances the fritters with its creamy texture and bright flavors, making each bite refreshing. It’s also a healthy addition, providing probiotics and protein from the yogurt, while the herbs add antioxidants and a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions and Versatility

Zucchini and sweet potato fritters can stand alone as a hearty vegetarian meal or complement a variety of dishes. They pair wonderfully with fresh salads, grain bowls, or as a side to grilled meats or fish. Their versatility means they can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

These fritters are also great for meal prepping and entertaining. They reheat well in an air fryer or oven, maintaining their crispiness, making them convenient for busy lifestyles. Their appealing golden color and fresh flavors make them a crowd-pleaser at brunches or casual gatherings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These fritters store well in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them an excellent make-ahead option. Reheating in an air fryer or oven is recommended to preserve their crispy exterior, although microwaving is a quicker alternative with some loss of crunch.

For longer storage, they freeze beautifully. After cooking and cooling, fritters can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them before reheating, and they regain much of their original texture and flavor. The yogurt sauce can also be prepared in advance and kept refrigerated for several days, making meal assembly quick and easy.

Conclusion

Golden brown zucchini and sweet potato fritters are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that shines through its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Combining fresh vegetables with herbs and spices, these fritters deliver a satisfying crunch and tender interior that appeals to vegetarians and health-conscious eaters alike. The accompanying garlic herb yogurt sauce adds a creamy, tangy contrast that brightens each bite and elevates the dish.

Easy to prepare and naturally gluten-free, these fritters adapt well to ingredient substitutions and various dietary needs. Whether served as a comforting meal, a flavorful side, or a snack, they bring freshness, color, and wholesome goodness to the table. Their convenient storage options and make-ahead potential make them a practical choice for busy households or entertaining guests. Crispy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, zucchini and sweet potato fritters paired with a creamy herb sauce are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.