Healthy Crispy Zucchini Oatmeal Patties

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini
• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed for cooking

Instructions

1. Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim both ends. Grate the zucchini using the large holes of a box grater.
2. Transfer the grated zucchini to a colander. Sprinkle it with the salt and leave it for approximately 10 minutes so it can release excess moisture.
3. Place the salted zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towel. Squeeze firmly and repeatedly until much of the liquid has been removed. Properly draining the zucchini is essential for patties that hold together and brown well.
4. Put the drained zucchini into a large mixing bowl. Add the rolled oats, Parmesan, cheddar, diced onion, minced garlic, parsley, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Beat the eggs separately, then pour them into the zucchini mixture. Stir thoroughly until the vegetables, oats, cheese, and seasonings are evenly distributed.
6. Add the all-purpose flour and mix until a thick, moist mixture forms. The mixture should be cohesive enough to shape without falling apart.
7. Let the mixture rest for approximately 10 minutes. This gives the oats time to absorb some of the remaining moisture.
8. Check the consistency after resting. If the mixture is still excessively wet, add a small amount of additional rolled oats and mix again. Add oats gradually rather than adding a large amount at once.
9. Divide the mixture into eight approximately equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty about 1/2 inch thick. Press the mixture together firmly enough to hold its shape without making the patties overly dense.
10. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the pan. Leave enough space between them for proper browning.
11. Cook the patties undisturbed for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on the first side. Wait until the underside is golden brown and firm before attempting to turn them.
12. Carefully flip the patties with a spatula. Cook the second side for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until golden, crisp, and fully cooked in the center.
13. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding a little more olive oil if necessary.
14. Serve the patties warm with Greek yogurt, sour cream, garlic yogurt sauce, fresh salad, roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, avocado, tomatoes, or another preferred accompaniment.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 145 kcal · Protein: Approximately 7 g · Fat: Approximately 7 g · Carbohydrates: Approximately 14 g · Saturated Fat: Approximately 3 g · Fiber: Approximately 2 g · Sugar: Approximately 2 g · Sodium: Approximately 400 mg