Crispy Garlic Chive Zucchini Patties

Whether served as an appetizer for guests, a side dish at a backyard barbecue, or a light lunch on the porch, these zucchini patties are a reminder that good food doesn't need to be complicated. Sometimes all it takes is a handful of fresh ingredients, a little care, and the willingness to let the garden shine.

Crispy Garlic Chive Zucchini Patties

Serves 6–8

Ingredients

• 1 pound zucchini (about 3 medium zucchini), grated
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup chopped garlic chives
• 3 garlic cloves, grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2¼ cups panko breadcrumbs, divided
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Avocado oil, for frying

For Serving

• Homemade ranch dip

Directions

1. Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the zucchini, garlic chives, grated garlic, dill, lemon zest, salt, and several grinds of black pepper.
3. Stir in 1½ cups of the panko breadcrumbs and the flour until well combined.
4. Place the remaining ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
5. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and coat generously with avocado oil.
6. Using a ¼-cup measuring cup, scoop the zucchini mixture and form into thin patties. Coat each patty in the reserved panko breadcrumbs.
7. Cook the patties for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches as needed, adding more oil to the skillet if necessary.
8. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
9. Serve warm with homemade ranch dip.

Garden Notes

• Garlic chives provide a milder, sweeter garlic flavor than traditional garlic cloves alone and are a wonderful way to incorporate fresh garden herbs into everyday cooking.
• Be sure to squeeze the zucchini thoroughly before mixing to help the patties hold together and develop a crisp exterior.
• These patties can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or light lunch and are an excellent way to use an abundant zucchini harvest.