Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters

Crispy Broccoli Parmesan Fritters have become my go-to when I need a satisfying veggie-packed meal that everyone in my family will actually eat They might look like green pancakes to the kids but to me they are the ultimate sneaky delicious way to get extra vegetables into our meals They come together straight from the food processor and crisp up in the oven with next to zero fuss or mess

I remember the first time I made these I called them Shrek pancakes and my kids gobbled them right up with no questions asked Now they get requested every week especially on busy nights

Ingredients

• Broccoli florets: They are the star of the dish Choose fresh or frozen with a deep green color for best flavor
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty depth Look for real Parmigiano Reggiano for maximum taste
• Flour: Holds everything together Choose all purpose for classic fritters or swap in almond flour for a low carb version
• Eggs: Bind the mixture and help create crispy edges Use free range if you can for a richer color
• Garlic: Adds aromatic punch Smash fresh cloves for the strongest flavor
• Salt: Enhances every ingredient A good sea salt makes a difference here
• Black pepper: Brings a gentle heat Use freshly ground for the best boost
• Olive oil spray: Makes the outside crispy while keeping the recipe lighter Go for extra virgin for its robust flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Broccoli:

Steam or microwave the broccoli just until bright green and tender but not mushy Let cool before using to keep the mix from getting soggy

Blend the Mixture:

Add broccoli parmesan flour eggs garlic salt and pepper to a food processor Pulse until roughly chopped and combined but do not blend into a paste A little texture matters for crispy edges

Shape the Fritters:

Scoop out the mixture by spoonfuls and shape into patties about half an inch thick If the mix feels sticky wet your hands to make shaping easier

Prep the Baking Sheet:

Line a sheet pan with parchment paper Spray lightly with olive oil for extra crispness

Bake the Fritters:

Arrange fritters on the pan leaving space between each Spray the tops with more olive oil Bake at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for ten to twelve minutes then flip and bake an extra eight minutes until both sides are browned and the fritters are set

Serve and Enjoy:

Let them cool just a couple minutes before moving so they do not break Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite sauce to dip

There is something so satisfying about using up the last bits of broccoli and turning them into a golden crispy fritter My favorite way to eat these is hot from the oven with a dollop of cold thick yogurt on top They always remind me of cozy weekends when the kitchen smells like roasted cheese and garlic

Storage Tips

Once baked cool fritters completely then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will keep well for up to four days To re-crisp simply bake in a hot oven or pop into a toaster oven for a few minutes Avoid microwaving if you want them to stay crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

Feeling adventurous Try swapping cauliflower for the broccoli or a blend of both If you need a dairy free option use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan You can also add extra herbs like parsley or dill for a new twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these fritters stacked high with a squeeze of lemon and a side of tangy yogurt or sour cream They are just as good with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce For a full meal tuck into pita bread with lettuce and tomato or tuck into grain bowls

Cultural and Historical Context

Fritters have roots in cuisines around the world from Italian to Indian They are a brilliant way to stretch vegetables and make them exciting Parmesan and broccoli together channel the flavors of classic Italian pasta dishes but with a crispy twist

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I achieve the crispiest fritters?

Spritz the shaped fritters lightly with olive oil spray before baking or pan-frying to enhance crunch.

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, try Pecorino Romano or a sharp cheddar for a unique twist on flavor and texture.

→ Are these fritters gluten-free?

Swap regular flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend to suit a gluten-free diet.

→ What dipping sauces pair well?

Classic choices include sour cream, yogurt, or a tangy tomato sauce. Get creative with your favorites!

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, assemble and chill them ahead of time, then bake or fry when ready to serve for peak freshness.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep cooled fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Recrisp in the oven.