Crispy Golden Corn & Zucchini Fritters with Zesty Cilantro-Lime Avocado Crema

Looking for a fresh, delightful appetizer or a light, satisfying snack? These Crispy Golden Corn & Zucchini Fritters are your answer! Packed with garden-fresh goodness and a perfect crunch, they're surprisingly easy to whip up. Each savory bite is elevated by a vibrant, zesty cilantro-lime avocado crema, making this a truly irresistible homemade treat.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• *For the Fritters:*
• - 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 2 medium), excess water squeezed out
• - 1 cup fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels
• - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• - 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• - 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley)
• - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
• - 3-4 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
• *For the Zesty Cilantro-Lime Avocado Crema:*
• - 1 ripe avocado, pitted and scooped
• - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• - 2 tablespoons water (or more, for desired consistency)
• - 1 small clove garlic
• - 1/4 teaspoon salt
• - Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

1. 1. **Prepare Zucchini:** Place shredded zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let sit for 10-15 minutes, then firmly squeeze out as much excess water as possible using a clean kitchen towel. This is crucial for crispy fritters.
2. 2. **Make Fritter Batter:** In a large bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, corn kernels, red onion, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro.
3. 3. **Add Dry Ingredients & Egg:** Stir in the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. 4. **Prepare Avocado Crema:** In a small blender or food processor, combine the avocado, cilantro, lime juice, water, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust water for desired consistency. Set aside.
5. 5. **Heat Oil:** Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. 6. **Cook Fritters:** Drop spoonfuls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon to form patties. Don't overcrowd the pan.
7. 7. **Flip & Fry:** Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Add more oil as needed for subsequent batches.
8. 8. **Drain & Serve:** Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with the Zesty Cilantro-Lime Avocado Crema. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges, if desired.

Chef's Note

For extra crispy fritters, ensure you squeeze out *all* excess water from the shredded zucchini. This step is critical and makes a huge difference in texture!

Make-Ahead Tips

The avocado crema can be made up to 1 day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. Fritters are best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven or air fryer for crispness.

Substitutions

- **Flour:** Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.,- **Corn:** Frozen corn (thawed) works perfectly.,- **Red Onion:** Shallots or green onions can be used as a milder alternative.,- **Cilantro:** Fresh parsley or chives can replace cilantro if preferred.,- **Cayenne Pepper:** Omit for no heat, or add a pinch of chili powder for a different flavor.