Greek Tomato Feta Fritters (Domatokeftethes): A Delicious Summer Appetizer

These Greek Tomato Feta Fritters (Domatokeftethes) are the perfect appetizer for any summer gathering. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors, they are an irresistible treat. Serve them with tzatziki, Greek yogurt with garlic and lemon, or simply with freshly squeezed lemon for an authentic Greek experience.

Quick Benefits

• Refreshing and Flavorful: Made with fresh vegetables and herbs, these fritters are light yet satisfying.
• Perfect for Summer: These fritters use fresh summer ingredients like tomatoes, zucchini, and herbs, making them ideal for warm-weather eating.
• Vegetarian: These fritters are fully vegetarian, making them suitable for a variety of diets.
• Customizable: You can tweak the herbs and spices to suit your personal preferences, making this recipe easy to adapt.

Essential Ingredients

This recipe comes together with the following fresh ingredients:

• 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes with juices: The base of the fritters, adding moisture and a burst of flavor.
• ½ cup packed grated zucchini: Adds texture and moisture to the fritters.
• ⅓ cup sliced green onions: Brings a mild, fresh onion flavor that complements the herbs.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
• 1 teaspoon white sugar: Helps draw out moisture from the tomatoes and zucchini, making the fritter mixture more manageable.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice to the fritters.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley: Adds freshness and color.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint: Provides a refreshing, aromatic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Adds a sweet and fragrant note.
• 3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the fritter batter.
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the fritters puff up when fried.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Used to fry the fritters to a golden brown, creating that crispy exterior.

Preparation Steps

1. Mix Vegetables: Stir together the diced tomatoes, grated zucchini, sliced green onions, kosher salt, sugar, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne in a large bowl. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the sugar and salt to draw out excess moisture from the vegetables.
2. Add Herbs and Feta: Stir in the parsley, mint, and basil. Crumble the feta cheese into the mixture and add the flour and baking powder. Mix until well combined. The batter should be slightly loose but able to hold its shape when spooned.
3. Chill the Batter: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If the mixture becomes too runny, add more flour as needed.
4. Heat the Oil: In a frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Fritters: Scoop heaping tablespoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Reduce the heat to medium and fry the fritters for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip them once more and fry for an additional 30 seconds for extra crispiness.
6. Serve: Drain the fritters on a paper towel and serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce.

Health Benefits

These Greek Tomato Feta Fritters offer several health benefits:

• Tomatoes and Zucchini: Both are low in calories and high in vitamins like vitamin C and potassium. They are great for heart health and provide fiber for digestion.
• Feta Cheese: Feta provides a source of calcium and protein, which are important for bone health and muscle repair.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley, mint, and basil are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which support the immune system and reduce inflammation.

While they are fried, these fritters are packed with fresh vegetables, making them a healthier choice than traditional fried appetizers.

Serving Suggestions

• Tzatziki Sauce: Serve these fritters with a side of tangy tzatziki sauce for a refreshing and creamy dip.
• Greek Yogurt: If you prefer a simpler dip, Greek yogurt seasoned with minced garlic and lemon juice makes for a delicious and healthy accompaniment.
• Fresh Lemon: A squeeze of freshly squeezed lemon juice over the fritters just before serving adds brightness and enhances the flavors.
• Appetizer or Snack: These fritters make a great appetizer or snack to serve at summer parties, barbecues, or gatherings.

Creative Variations

• Add Dill: If you love dill, feel free to add freshly chopped dill to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make these fritters gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour.
• Spicy Version: For those who like a little extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to the mix.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the fritters for up to a month. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until crispy again.
• Make-Ahead Option: The batter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. This is a great time-saver for busy days.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the fritters to stick together and cook unevenly.
• Use the Right Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F) for crisp, golden fritters. If the oil is too cool, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the fritters immediately after frying. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside when fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these fritters in advance?
While these fritters are best served fresh, you can make the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. The fritters themselves can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispness.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute feta with other cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different.

3. Are these fritters suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour in place of all-purpose flour.

4. Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
While frying is traditional for the crispy texture, you can bake the fritters at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.

These Greek Tomato Feta Fritters are a delightful appetizer that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family!

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