Zucchini Corn Fritter Taco Shells

Looking for a fresh twist on taco night? These Zucchini Corn Fritter Taco Shells are exactly what you need. Crispy on the outside with a tender, flavorful interior, these fritters double as taco shells that bring a delightful veggie-packed crunch to your meal. Made from grated zucchinis and sweet corn kernels, they’re a vibrant and wholesome alternative to traditional taco shells. Not only are they fun to make, but they also offer a clever way to sneak in some extra veggies while still satisfying your taco cravings.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love tacos but want a lighter, more vegetable-forward option, these Zucchini Corn Fritter Taco Shells are a game changer. Unlike store-bought tortillas or hard shells, these fritters are naturally gluten-full and packed with fresh ingredients. The combination of zucchini and corn brings a subtle sweetness paired with a fresh herbal note from cilantro, perfectly balanced with seasoning and a hint of pepper. Plus, they hold up beautifully, making them ideal for stuffing with your favorite fillings like cooked chicken or turkey and topping with creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt.

These fritters are also incredibly versatile — perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal with family and friends. If you’re a fan of recipes like the Cheesy Zucchini Taco Casserole Low Carb, you’ll appreciate how this recipe elevates zucchini in a totally new and exciting way. Whether you’re looking to add more veggies to your diet or just want a delicious, creative taco shell option, these fritters are a must-try.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
• Cooked chicken, turkey, or any preferred meat for filling
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
• Sliced avocados for garnish

How To Make Zucchini Corn Fritter Taco Shells

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by grating the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor. Once grated, place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for ensuring your fritters turn out crisp rather than soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated zucchini, corn kernels, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. Next, add the beaten eggs and chopped cilantro, mixing until the batter comes together into a thick, scoopable consistency.

Step 3: Cook the Fritters

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, spoon about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and gently flatten it into a round disc about 1/4-inch thick. Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches, adding more oil as needed.

Step 4: Shape the Taco Shells

Immediately after cooking, while the fritters are still warm and pliable, gently drape each one over a rolling pin, the edge of a baking sheet, or a taco rack to shape them into a shell. Let them cool in this position to harden and hold their shape.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each zucchini corn fritter shell with your choice of cooked chicken, turkey, or preferred meat. Top with a dollop of sour cream or creamy Greek yogurt and garnish with sliced avocados. Feel free to add extra salsa, shredded lettuce, or cheese if you like.

Expert Tips

• Squeeze the zucchini well: Removing moisture from the zucchini is key to crispy fritters that hold up well as taco shells.
• Use a non-stick skillet: This helps prevent sticking and makes flipping the fritters easier.
• Shape while warm: Fritters harden as they cool, so shaping them immediately after cooking is essential for taco shell form.
• Adjust thickness: Flatten the fritters thinner for crispier shells or keep them slightly thicker for a more tender bite.
• Try different herbs: If you’re not a cilantro fan, fresh parsley or chives work beautifully as alternatives.

Variations and Customizations

• Cheese addition: Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese to the batter for extra flavor and richness.
• Spicy kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Make it vegan: Use a flax egg or chia egg substitute instead of eggs, and swap yogurt for a plant-based alternative.
• Different veggies: Add grated carrots or finely chopped bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
• Alternative flours: Substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover zucchini corn fritters, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them as crisp as possible, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.

FAQ

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh or canned?

Yes, frozen corn works well—just thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the batter to keep the mixture from becoming too watery.

How do I make sure the fritters hold together?

The eggs and flour are the binding agents here. Removing excess moisture from the zucchini and using the baking powder also help the fritters hold their shape and become light and fluffy.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

You can mix the batter a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, but for best results, cook the fritters fresh to keep the shells sturdy and crispy.

What are some good filling ideas besides chicken or turkey?

Try sautéed mushrooms and onions, black beans and corn salsa, or even grilled shrimp for different flavor profiles. These shells are versatile and pair well with many fillings.

Conclusion

These Zucchini Corn Fritter Taco Shells bring a fresh, fun, and delicious new spin to your taco lineup. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with wholesome veggies. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these fritters will impress everyone at the table. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite fillings and toppings to make each taco uniquely yours. Enjoy the crispy, golden goodness and the vibrant flavors that these fritter shells have to offer!

Share on Pinterest