How to Make Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters

Looking for a way to enjoy more veggies without compromising on flavor? These crispy broccoli Parmesan fritters are the perfect solution! Packed with fresh broccoli, grated Parmesan, and just the right blend of spices, these fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They make an excellent snack, appetizer, or side dish to complement any meal.

With their savory taste and satisfying crunch, these fritters are a healthier take on traditional fried snacks. Whether you’re looking to sneak in more greens or simply crave a flavorful bite, these fritters are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Crunchy: A perfect golden-brown exterior with a tender broccoli interior.
Packed with Flavor: Parmesan cheese and a blend of herbs add depth to every bite.
Healthy & Wholesome: A great way to enjoy broccoli in a fun and delicious form.
Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and quick steps for a no-fuss recipe.
Customizable: Add other vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly: A great way to get the little ones to eat their veggies!

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh broccoli, finely chopped (or use frozen, thawed and well-drained)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or use whole wheat for a healthier option)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil, finely chopped for added flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Broccoli

1. Steam the broccoli until tender (about 4-5 minutes), or microwave it until soft. Let it cool slightly, then finely chop it. If using frozen broccoli, be sure to thoroughly drain any excess moisture.

Make the Fritter Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir until everything is well combined and a dough-like consistency forms. If the mixture seems too wet, add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time. If you’d like to add fresh herbs, now’s the time!

Form the Fritters

1. Use your hands or a spoon to form the mixture into small fritters, about 1-2 inches in diameter.

Fry the Fritters

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Carefully place the fritters into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve the fritters warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. These fritters are delicious on their own or paired with a light dipping sauce such as ranch, tzatziki, or marinara.

Nutritional Information (Per Fritter)

Calories: 60 | Carbs: 4g | Fat: 4g | Protein: 3g | Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Both work well, just be sure to drain frozen broccoli completely to avoid excess moisture in the fritter mixture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fritters in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
• Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the garlic and onion powder or add other spices like chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Bake Instead of Frying: For a healthier option, bake these fritters at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
• Make Ahead: These fritters store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

Why This Recipe Works

• Crispy & Flavorful: The combination of Parmesan cheese and a light flour coating creates the perfect crisp exterior.
• Veggie-Packed: Broccoli is loaded with nutrients, and using it in these fritters is an easy way to increase vegetable intake.
• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal ingredients and effort.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to include other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.

These crispy broccoli Parmesan fritters are the ideal way to turn a healthy vegetable into a delicious and satisfying treat. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, they’re packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients. Try them out today and enjoy a fun, crispy way to eat your veggies!