Zucchini Rice Patties

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Zucchini rice patties served on a plate with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

Zucchini Rice Patties are a simple and delicious dish that you can easily make at home. They combine the freshness of zucchini with the heartiness of rice, creating a satisfying meal. These patties are a great way to use up any extra zucchini you might have during the gardening season. Not only are they tasty, but they are also nutritious and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them as a snack, side dish, or even as a main course. Making Zucchini Rice Patties is quick and easy, making them a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or a delightful treat for any gathering.

Why make this recipe

There are many reasons to make Zucchini Rice Patties. First, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them at any time of day! Enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are also a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Zucchini is low in calories but high in nutrients, making these patties a healthy choice.

Another reason to make Zucchini Rice Patties is that they are perfect for families. Kids love the fun shape and texture. As a parent, you can feel good about serving them a dish made with wholesome ingredients. This recipe is also an excellent way to sneak in extra vegetables without them even noticing! With just a few steps, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

How to make Zucchini Rice Patties

Making Zucchini Rice Patties is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to create a tasty and nutritious dish that you can share with family and friends.

Ingredients:

1 cup of rice (about 185 g),
2 zucchini (about 600 g),
1 onion (about 150 g),
1 egg,
1 red sweet pepper (about 150 g),
1 red hot pepper (optional, about 50 g),
Salt to taste,
2 tablespoons of plain flour (20 g),
Plant oil for frying.

Directions:

  1. Wash the rice thoroughly under cold water. Place it in a pot, add salt and enough water to cover the rice. Cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender. Once done, set it aside in a large bowl to cool.

  2. Clean the zucchini by rinsing it under water. Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. After grating, squeeze out the excess juice with your hands or using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial to avoid soggy patties.

  3. Chop the onion finely and add it to the bowl with the cooled rice. Then, mix in the grated zucchini, and crack in the egg.

  4. Next, finely chop the red sweet pepper and, if using, the red hot pepper. Add both peppers to the rice mixture along with salt. Mix everything well until combined.

  5. Add two tablespoons of plain flour to the mixture. This will help bind the ingredients together. Stir it in until the mixture is well-blended.

  6. Heat a generous amount of plant oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, use a spoon or your hands to shape small patties from the mixture. Carefully place them in the hot oil.

  7. Fry the patties for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown. Then, flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. Remove patties from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

How to serve Zucchini Rice Patties

Zucchini Rice Patties can be served in many ways. For a simple meal, pair them with a fresh salad or a side of yogurt or sour cream for dipping. You can also enjoy them on their own as a snack. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a protein like grilled chicken or fish. They are also delicious inside a sandwich or wrap, adding a lovely crunch and flavor.

How to store Zucchini Rice Patties

If you have leftover Zucchini Rice Patties, you can store them easily. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over low heat, or place them in a toaster oven to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can freeze the patties. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating each with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to make Zucchini Rice Patties

Here are some helpful tips to enhance your experience while making Zucchini Rice Patties:

  • If you want extra flavor, consider adding some herbs like parsley or dill to the mixture.
  • Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini well, as this will help the patties hold their shape when frying.
  • You can customize your patties by adding grated cheese or other vegetables.
  • To make the patties spicier, increase the amount of red hot pepper according to your taste.

Variation (if any)

You can easily modify this recipe to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, you can swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous to introduce different flavors and textures. You can also use yellow squash in place of zucchini. To make these patties gluten-free, you can substitute the plain flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Experiment with different spices and herbs to create your unique version of Zucchini Rice Patties!

FAQs

Can I make Zucchini Rice Patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.

How do I know when the patties are done frying?
The patties should be golden brown on both sides. You can also break one open to check if it’s hot and cooked through.

Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the patties! Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them with some cooking oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What serving suggestions do you recommend?
Serve Zucchini Rice Patties with a side of fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. They make a great addition to wraps or sandwich fillings too.

How can I make these patties vegan?
You can replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for binding. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 4g

Zucchini Rice Patties are not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. They are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing snack. Try making this recipe today!