Zucchini Fritters with Dutch Cheese and Herbs

#### 4. **Form and Fry the Fritters:**
– Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the hot oil, pressing down gently to flatten them into small patties. Fry the fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy fritters. You may need to fry them in batches, depending on the size of your pan.

#### 5. **Drain the Fritters:**
– Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

#### 6. **Prepare the Dipping Sauce (optional):**
– While the fritters are cooling slightly, prepare a simple dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream or Greek yogurt with the lemon juice, fresh dill or parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This tangy and herbaceous sauce complements the richness of the fritters perfectly.

#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the zucchini fritters warm with the dipping sauce on the side. These fritters are great on their own or as a side dish to a main meal. You can also enjoy them as a light lunch or dinner, paired with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

### Tips for the Best Zucchini Fritters:

1. **Remove Excess Moisture from the Zucchini:**
– Grating the zucchini and then squeezing out the excess moisture is a crucial step. If you skip this, your fritters may become soggy and fall apart while cooking.

2. **Experiment with Different Cheeses:**
– While Dutch cheese like Gouda and Edam works wonderfully for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses, such as Cheddar or Parmesan, for different flavors. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the herbs and zucchini.

3. **Make Them Ahead:**
– You can prepare the zucchini mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying. This helps the flavors meld together and makes frying even easier.

4. **Crisp Them Up in the Oven:**
– If you want to make the fritters extra crispy, you can bake them in the oven after frying. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through.

5. **Gluten-Free Option:**
– For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, rice flour, or chickpea flour. You may need to adjust the quantity to get the right consistency.

### Why You’ll Love Zucchini Fritters with Dutch Cheese and Herbs:

These zucchini fritters are a wonderful combination of fresh vegetables, rich cheese, and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that’s both comforting and light. The crispy, golden exterior contrasts perfectly with the soft, flavorful interior, making them irresistible. The addition of Dutch cheese gives these fritters a creamy, slightly tangy flavor, while the herbs add a burst of freshness. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. With the optional tangy dipping sauce, they elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them for a casual meal, these zucchini fritters are sure to impress with their delightful flavor and texture. They’re a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while indulging in a savory, cheesy treat!