Crispy Zucchini Patties with Smoked Scamorza & Fresh Basil
Indulge in these incredibly easy and utterly delicious zucchini patties, crafted with aromatic garlic, fragrant fresh basil, and the unique smoky richness of scamorza cheese. Each patty boasts a perfectly golden and crispy exterior, yielding to a wonderfully soft and flavorful middle. These savory vegetable fritters are an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying lunch or a delightful dinner side, especially when zucchini is abundant during the summer months.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Effortless & Fast: Ready in approximately 30 minutes, all mixed in a single bowl for minimal cleanup.
- Summer Zucchini Saver: A fantastic and flavorful way to utilize your bountiful harvest of summer zucchini.
- Versatile & Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily adaptable with various herbs and cheeses, and perfect for preparing in advance to save time.
These savory zucchini patties, often referred to as fritters, represent our absolute favorite method for savoring this quintessential summer vegetable. The best part? They couldn’t be simpler to prepare, nor more utterly delicious. The entire process begins by combining all ingredients in a single mixing bowl, ensuring a fuss-free experience from start to finish. Once mixed, the patties are pan-fried in high-quality olive oil, transforming into golden, crispy discs with a wonderfully soft, moist, and flavorful center.
This recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily customize the flavors with different fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a variety of cheeses. (Be sure to check our detailed notes below for exciting adaptation ideas!) They are an exceptional choice for a light and refreshing lunch, particularly when paired with a simple, vibrant arugula salad, or as an appealing side dish to complement your main course. Embrace the summer freshness with these irresistible zucchini creations!
Table of Contents
- Quick Recipe Highlights
- Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Patties
- Key Ingredient Notes
- Make It Your Own: Flavor Variations
- Recipe Tips and FAQs
- Delightful Serving Suggestions
- More Delicious Ways to Use Zucchini
- Full Recipe: Zucchini Patties with Smoked Scamorza
Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Patties
These zucchini patties aren’t just a recipe; they’re a celebration of simplicity and fresh, vibrant flavors. If you’re looking for a delightful way to enjoy zucchini, especially during its peak season, you’ve found your new go-to. Here’s why these fritters will become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire:
- Irresistible Texture: The magic lies in the contrast – a beautifully crisp, golden-brown crust gives way to an incredibly tender, cheesy, and herbaceous interior. It’s a textural symphony in every bite.
- Bursting with Flavor: Fresh garlic and basil infuse the zucchini with bright, aromatic notes, perfectly complemented by the creamy, savory depth of smoked scamorza and Parmigiano Reggiano. A hint of nutmeg adds a surprising warmth that elevates the overall profile.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, these patties offer a lighter, healthier alternative to heavier meals without compromising on flavor. They’re an excellent way to boost your vegetable intake.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters often fall in love with these savory cakes. The cheesy goodness and crispy texture make them highly appealing to children, a clever way to sneak in some greens!
- Incredibly Adaptable: Whether you prefer a spicier kick, a different herb profile, or a dairy-free version, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity. Customizing them to your taste is half the fun!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them as an appetizer for guests, a light main course with a salad, or as a flavorful side dish. They’re equally delicious hot, warm, or even at room temperature, making them ideal for picnics or meal prep.
Key Ingredient Notes for Perfect Patties
The beauty of these zucchini patties lies in their simple yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how to make the most of each component:
- Smoked Scamorza Cheese: This is our secret ingredient for a truly authentic Italian flavor! Scamorza is a semi-firm, stretched-curd cheese, very similar in texture to mozzarella but often firmer and drier. The smoked variety, common in Italy, adds a wonderfully nutty, savory, and subtly smoky depth that truly elevates these patties. If smoked scamorza is hard to find, good alternatives include Fontina or Gruyere – any firm, good-melting cheese will work beautifully.
- Shredded Zucchini: The star of the show! Using a standard box grater is the quickest and easiest way to prepare your zucchini. It’s crucial to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible from the grated zucchini. This step is non-negotiable for achieving perfectly crisp patties that hold their shape. See our “Recipe Tips” section for more on this.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: This hard, aged Italian cheese adds a sharp, salty, and umami-rich flavor that complements the scamorza and zucchini beautifully. Freshly grated is always best for superior flavor. Excellent substitutes include Pecorino Romano for a saltier, tangier kick, or Grana Padano for a slightly milder, nutty profile.
- Nutmeg: A small pinch of freshly grated nutmeg might seem unexpected, but it adds a subtle warmth and a classic Italian culinary touch, enhancing the savory notes without overpowering them. While highly recommended for depth, you can omit it if you don’t have it on hand.
- Breadcrumbs: We recommend using fine, unseasoned breadcrumbs. These act as a binder, absorbing any remaining moisture and contributing to the patty’s structural integrity and crispy texture. Panko breadcrumbs can also be used for an even crisper exterior.
- Fresh Basil: The vibrant aroma of fresh basil is essential here. Finely chopped basil provides a lovely fresh, peppery, and slightly sweet flavor that brightens the entire dish. Don’t skip fresh herbs for this recipe; they make a significant difference!
- Garlic: A single clove of finely minced or crushed garlic provides a pungent, savory foundation. It’s subtle enough not to overpower the other flavors but noticeable enough to add depth.
- Egg: The egg serves as a crucial binder, holding all the ingredients together so the patties don’t crumble during cooking.
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for frying. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing all the flavors.
Make It Your Own: Flavor Variations
One of the joys of these zucchini patties is how easily they can be customized to suit your personal taste or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are some suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity:
Herbs: While fresh basil is a star, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs. Finely chopped fresh parsley offers a bright, clean flavor. A tiny amount of finely chopped fresh rosemary can add an earthy, woody note, but use it sparingly as it can be potent. Freshly chopped chives provide a delicate oniony flavor, and a sprinkle of dried oregano can bring a classic Mediterranean touch.
Other Cheeses to Use: If smoked scamorza isn’t available or you’re looking for different profiles, many other firm, melting cheeses work wonderfully. Consider Fontina for a nutty, buttery flavor; dry mozzarella (shredded or from a block) for classic mildness; Gruyere for a rich, complex taste; Pecorino for a sharp, salty punch; Caciocavallo for another Italian semi-hard option; or Provolone for a mild, savory note. The key is a cheese that melts well and adds a good savory base.
Spices: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes (peperoncino) can add a delightful warmth. Fennel seeds, lightly crushed, introduce a subtle anise-like aroma and flavor that pairs surprisingly well with zucchini and cheese.
Additional Mix-ins:
- Onion or Shallots: Finely minced onion or shallots (sautéed briefly to soften) can add an extra layer of savory depth.
- Lemon Zest: A touch of fresh lemon zest can brighten the flavors, adding a wonderful citrusy aroma.
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: Finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) can introduce a concentrated, sweet-tart umami.
- Olives: A few finely chopped Kalamata or black olives can add a salty, briny kick.
Recipe Tips and FAQs for Success
Achieving the perfect zucchini patty is all about a few key techniques. Here are our top tips and answers to common questions:
- The Golden Rule: Removing Moisture – This is the single most critical step! Zucchini contains a significant amount of water, and if not adequately removed, your patties will be soggy and won’t hold their shape. After grating, place the zucchini in a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as humanly possible. You’ll be surprised how much water comes out! Definitely do not skip this step.
- Even Browning: To ensure your patties cook evenly and achieve that desirable golden crust, don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary, allowing enough space around each patty. Maintain a medium heat; too high, and they’ll burn before cooking through; too low, and they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Patty Consistency: If your mixture feels too wet even after squeezing the zucchini, add a tablespoon or two more breadcrumbs until it’s easily workable and forms into patties without falling apart. Conversely, if it seems too dry, a tiny splash of olive oil or a few drops of water can help.
- Reheating Leftovers – Zucchini patties are excellent for meal prep! To reheat, you can place them in a dry pan on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes per side until warmed through and re-crisped. Alternatively, arrange them on a baking tray and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, or until hot throughout. They are also delicious served cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for packed lunches or picnics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! You can assemble the zucchini patty mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them on a plate, covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. This makes weeknight cooking a breeze!
Yes, these zucchini patties freeze beautifully. Once formed, arrange uncooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container, wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To cook, you can often fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or thaw them in the refrigerator first.
While frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly brush both sides of the patties with olive oil and bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. They might not be as crispy as pan-fried, but still delicious!
To make these zucchini patties gluten-free, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
These versatile zucchini patties are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve them:
- Classic Arugula Salad: My absolute favorite accompaniment is a simple yet vibrant arugula salad. Dress fresh arugula leaves with a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a scattering of thin Parmigiano Reggiano shavings, and a generous crack of black pepper. The peppery bite of arugula and the bright acidity of lemon cut through the richness of the patties beautifully.
- Fresh Summer Tomatoes: During peak summer, nothing beats large, juicy slices of ripe tomatoes simply sprinkled with flaky sea salt and a generous glug of olive oil. The sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory fritters.
- Hearty Bean Salads: For a more substantial meal, serve these patties alongside a robust bean salad. Our Cannellini Bean and Tuna Salad or Chickpea Tuna Salad are fantastic options, adding protein and fiber.
- Creamy Dips: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt mixed with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon, a tangy tzatziki, or a simple marinara sauce can elevate these patties into an appetizer sensation.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap: For a quick and easy lunch, tuck warm zucchini patties into a pita pocket or wrap with some fresh greens, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
- As a Side Dish: These patties make an excellent side to grilled chicken, fish, or a steak. They add a fresh, vegetable-forward element to any main course.
More Delicious Ways to Use Summer Zucchini
Zucchini is incredibly versatile! If you’ve got an abundance of this summer squash, explore more delicious recipes from our kitchen. Our creamy zucchini potato soup is a long-standing reader favorite, and you won’t be able to get enough of that simple grilled zucchini salad!
Soups
Creamy Italian Potato & Zucchini Soup
Pasta
Easy Zucchini Pesto Pasta (Fresh and Delicious)
Pasta
Creamy Zucchini and Stracchino Pasta
Salads
Grilled Zucchini Salad with Melon and Prosciutto
We truly hope you’ll try these delightful Zucchini Patties with Smoked Scamorza! If you do, please don’t hesitate to rate the recipe and share your thoughts in the comments section below. We absolutely love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations! For more delicious Italian-inspired recipes and cooking tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. You can also sign up for our Newsletter to get our latest recipes delivered straight to your inbox every week.
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Zucchini Patties with Smoked Scamorza
By Emily
20
10
30
8 patties
Pin Recipe
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Easy and utterly delicious zucchini patties (or fritters) made with fresh garlic, fragrant basil, and rich smoked scamorza cheese. These are perfect served alongside a fresh salad for a light, satisfying lunch or dinner. Follow the step-by-step photos below for a perfect batch!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, (approx. 400g/14oz)
- 100 g (1 cup) smoked scamorza cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 120 g (1 cup) fine breadcrumbs
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or crushed
- 1 small handful fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg
- 1-2 tablespoons Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Begin by thoroughly grating the zucchini using a box grater. Once grated, transfer the zucchini into a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Tightly squeeze out as much water as you possibly can. This is a crucial step to prevent soggy patties and ensure they crisp up beautifully.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed grated zucchini, fine breadcrumbs, grated smoked scamorza cheese, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, finely chopped fresh basil, the beaten egg, a pinch of nutmeg, and the crushed garlic clove. Season generously with a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir all the ingredients well to combine. We find it easiest to start mixing with a spoon and then finish by hand to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated.
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Divide the mixture and form it into approximately 8 evenly sized patties or cakes. Gently flatten each patty to about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick. Place the formed patties on a clean plate and set aside, ready for frying.
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Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the zucchini cakes into the pan. Fry the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. (To avoid overcrowding, we typically fry 4 patties at a time, then repeat with the remaining mixture.) Serve your crispy zucchini patties immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Leftovers of these delicious zucchini patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a pan on the stove over medium heat until re-crisped and hot, or place them on a baking tray in a preheated oven (180°C/350°F) for about 10 minutes. For added convenience, these patties are also wonderfully delicious enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them a perfect addition to packed lunches or picnics.
Helpful Info for All Our Recipes
- Unless otherwise specified, we always use high-quality extra virgin olive oil in all of our recipes for its superior flavor and health benefits.
- For canned or jarred tomatoes of any kind, we consistently recommend Cirio or Mutti brands. Their exceptional quality guarantees the best possible results and authentic flavor in your dishes.
- All vegetables listed are of medium size unless a specific size or weight is explicitly stated.
- All our recipes are carefully tested and developed using a fan (convection) oven to ensure consistent results.
- Find out more about how nutrition is calculated for our recipes.
- Explore our essential guide to Italian Pantry Staples to keep your kitchen well-stocked.
- Discover all our recommended Essential Kitchen Tools for Italian Cooking to elevate your culinary journey.
Nutrition (Per Patty, Approximate)
Calories: 127kcal
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Carbohydrates: 13g
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 6g
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Saturated Fat: 3g
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Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
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Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
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Trans Fat: 0.1g
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Cholesterol: 34mg
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Sodium: 211mg
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Potassium: 177mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
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Vitamin A: 269IU
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Vitamin C: 9mg
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Calcium: 103mg
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Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. It may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
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