Zucchini: 4 Facts and a Delectable Twist!

The humble zucchini, a summer squash superstar, is more than just a versatile veggie. It’s a nutritional powerhouse with a mild flavor that complements countless dishes. But beyond its culinary uses, here are 4 surprising facts about zucchini:

1. It’s a Fruit, Not a Vegetable: Botanically, zucchini is classified as a fruit, similar to cucumbers and tomatoes.
2. Hydration Hero: Made up of over 90% water, zucchini helps keep you cool and hydrated, especially during hot summer months.
3. Vitamin Powerhouse: Zucchini boasts a good amount of vitamin C, manganese, and potassium, all vital for maintaining overall health.
4. Flower Power: The large yellow blossom of the zucchini plant is edible! Enjoy them stuffed, battered, or fried for a unique culinary experience.

Now, let’s put this wonder veggie to work with a recipe that adds a delightful twist!

Zucchini Fritters with a Feta and Mint Surprise

These crispy fritters are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies. The surprise comes from a creamy feta and mint filling that takes them to a whole new level.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini (grated)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Grate and Squeeze: Wash and grate the zucchini. Using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible from the grated zucchini. This is crucial to ensure crispy fritters.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the grated zucchini, beaten egg, chopped mint, and minced garlic to the dry ingredients. Mix well to combine.

4. Assemble the Surprise: In a separate small bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese with a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of pepper.

5. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to reach a depth of about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it simmers gently.

6. Form and Fry: Using a spoon or your hands, form the zucchini mixture into small patties. Make a well in the center of each patty and spoon in a small amount of the feta cheese mixture. Gently close the patty to enclose the filling. Carefully place the formed fritters into the hot oil.

7. Cook to Perfection: Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your zucchini fritters warm with a dollop of plain yogurt or your favorite dipping sauce.