These Corn and Feta Fritters are the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, flavorful center. The sweet burst of corn pairs beautifully with the creamy, salty feta and fragrant herbs, making them a delight for both weekday meals and weekend brunches. Their golden crust and rustic charm make them equally perfect for serving at casual gatherings or elevating your everyday lunch.
They’re quick to whip up and super versatile—serve them as a savory side dish, a light main course, or a handheld snack with a dollop of herbed yogurt or spicy aioli. Whether you’re using fresh summer corn or reaching for frozen kernels, these fritters are a year-round favorite that always bring warmth, texture, and savory satisfaction to the table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups fresh, canned, or frozen corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
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1 small zucchini, grated and drained
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100g crumbled feta cheese
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2 spring onions, finely chopped
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2 large eggs
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½ cup plain flour
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½ tsp baking powder
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¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Olive oil, for frying
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn kernels, grated zucchini, crumbled feta, chopped spring onions, and fresh herbs.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Pour the eggs into the corn mixture and stir to combine.
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Add the flour and baking powder to the mixture and gently fold until just combined. If the batter feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
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Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
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Scoop heaped tablespoons of the batter into the pan, flattening each slightly with the back of the spoon.
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Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp.
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Transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Serve warm with a side of Greek yogurt, tzatziki, or a fresh garden salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 170 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Corn and Feta Fritters are more than just a quick meal or side dish—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients. Loved for their crispy golden exterior and tender, savory interior, these fritters bring comfort food to the table with a fresh and modern twist. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian dish, a nutritious school lunch, or a crowd-pleasing brunch item, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
A Little Background: Where Corn Fritters Come From
Corn fritters have a long and delicious history. Rooted in Southern American cuisine, traditional corn fritters were often deep-fried and made with a simple mixture of cornmeal and fresh corn. Over time, variations emerged across different cultures, incorporating diverse ingredients like herbs, cheeses, and vegetables. The version featuring feta and zucchini gives a Mediterranean touch, where feta’s creamy tang complements the natural sweetness of corn, and grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrients without overpowering the flavor.
The use of feta, a salty, brined cheese made from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep and goat’s milk, ties this dish to Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine. Zucchini, meanwhile, is widely used in everything from Italian fritters to Middle Eastern koftes, showcasing its global appeal and versatility. Combining these elements with the Western idea of pan-fried patties creates a cross-cultural delight that feels familiar yet fresh.
Why These Fritters Stand Out
One of the biggest strengths of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You don’t need fancy ingredients or cooking techniques—just a bowl, a grater, and a frying pan. But the result is a dish that’s bursting with complex flavors and varied textures.
The corn adds bursts of juicy sweetness with every bite, while feta brings creamy saltiness that balances the overall flavor profile. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint add brightness and aroma, transforming these fritters from basic to gourmet. The zucchini is a subtle yet important addition—it keeps the fritters tender and prevents them from drying out, all while packing in extra fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins like vitamin C and potassium.
Whether served with a dollop of tzatziki, a drizzle of chili oil, or nestled into a salad bowl, these fritters are versatile enough to adapt to any meal of the day.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile
Despite being pan-fried, Corn and Feta Fritters can be part of a well-balanced diet. They are high in protein thanks to the feta and eggs, and rich in fiber and antioxidants due to the presence of vegetables and fresh herbs. Using olive oil for cooking also adds a source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
These fritters are naturally vegetarian, making them ideal for meatless Mondays or reducing overall meat consumption. They’re also suitable for lunchboxes and picky eaters—especially when served with a fun dipping sauce or tucked into a wrap. If you’re looking to make them even healthier, you can bake them in the oven or use an air fryer for a lower-oil alternative.
Customizable to Your Taste and Pantry
The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Out of zucchini? Try grated carrots or sweet potatoes. Prefer cheddar to feta? Swap it in for a more melty, savory bite. You can even add chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat or toss in some smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
They also freeze well, meaning you can make a double batch and reheat them as needed. This is especially helpful for busy families, meal-preppers, or anyone trying to cut down on last-minute takeout.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Corn and Feta Fritters are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments. A few favorites include:
- Greek Yogurt or Tzatziki: The creamy, tangy flavors pair perfectly with the saltiness of feta and sweetness of corn.
- Fresh Garden Salad: Add a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Poached Eggs: Top the fritters with a runny egg for a luxurious brunch.
- Avocado Salsa or Guacamole: A modern, zesty twist that works great in wraps or as a dip.
- Sweet Chili Sauce or Hot Honey: If you love sweet-heat combos, this pairing is divine.
Ideal for Every Occasion
Whether you’re whipping up a fast dinner on a weeknight or preparing a brunch platter for guests, Corn and Feta Fritters are an all-occasion dish. They look beautiful on a platter, are easy to portion out for groups, and can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature—making them picnic and party-friendly too.
Because they’re easy to transport, they’re also great for school or work lunches. Simply pack them with a side salad or yogurt dip and you have a nutritious, satisfying meal ready to go.
Sustainability and Budget Friendliness
Using simple, affordable ingredients like corn and zucchini makes this dish budget-friendly. It’s a smart way to use up vegetables that might otherwise go to waste, and you can opt for canned or frozen corn depending on the season. Since feta has a bold flavor, you don’t need much of it to make a big impact—keeping the overall cost down while still delivering gourmet results.
This dish is a great example of how home cooking can be both economical and indulgent. With minimal effort, you get maximum flavor and nutrition.
Tips for Perfect Fritters Every Time
- Drain Your Zucchini Well: Squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy fritters.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined for a light texture.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: This ensures even browning without needing too much oil.
- Cook in Batches: Give each fritter space to cook properly for that golden crust.
- Keep Warm in the Oven: If making a big batch, place cooked fritters on a tray in a low oven while you finish the rest.
Conclusion
Corn and Feta Fritters are more than just a side dish—they’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. They’re healthy, quick, and versatile, and they bring together the best of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy in every bite. From busy weekday dinners to relaxed weekend brunches, this recipe deserves a regular spot in your meal rotation.
Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit at the table, these fritters prove that vegetarian food can be deeply satisfying, comforting, and full of flair.