Lemon Chickpea Fritters | YumSprint

Lemon Chickpea Fritters

Short description

These Lemon Chickpea Fritters are a vibrant, zesty, and satisfying vegetarian dish perfect for quick lunches, appetizers, or a light dinner. Infused with fresh herbs, lemon, and spices, they’re pan-fried to crispy perfection and pair beautifully with dips, salads, or warm pita bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep.

  • Healthy and hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh herbs.

  • Versatile: Serve as a snack, sandwich filling, or salad topper.

  • Zesty and fresh: Bright lemon flavor enhances the savory chickpea base.

  • Pan-fried or baked: Easily adaptable for your preferred cooking method.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

  • ½ tsp cumin

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ¼ cup flour

  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil

Directions

  1. Prepare the mixture

    • In a food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

    • Pulse until the mixture is combined but still slightly chunky—do not overprocess.

  2. Form the fritters

    • Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in flour until fully incorporated.

    • With clean hands, form into small, compact patties.

  3. Cook the fritters

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

    • Cook fritters in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.

    • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

  4. Serve

    • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or tuck into a pita with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.

Servings and timing

  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 10 minutes

  • Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the mixture.

  • Baked option: Bake at 375 °F (190 °C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lower-fat version.

  • Herb swap: Replace parsley with cilantro, dill, or mint for a different flavor profile.

  • Add veggies: Finely grated carrot or zucchini (squeezed dry) can be added to the mix for extra texture and nutrition.

  • Gluten-free: Use chickpea flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Storage/reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled fritters in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

  • Reheating:

    • Skillet: Reheat with a little oil for 2–3 minutes per side.

    • Oven: Bake at 350 °F for 10 minutes.

    • Microwave: Use short bursts, though texture may soften.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook and cool them first. Use 1½ cups cooked chickpeas.

2. What can I serve with these fritters?

Try a yogurt-based dip, hummus, tahini sauce, or a fresh cucumber salad.

3. Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, the mixture can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before forming and cooking.

4. How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?

Be sure the mixture isn’t too wet and press the patties firmly. Add more flour if needed.

5. Can I air fry these fritters?

Yes, air fry at 375 °F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

6. Are these fritters vegan?

Yes, they contain no animal products and are completely plant-based.

7. Can I use other beans?

Yes, white beans or black beans can be used, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

8. Is it necessary to use a food processor?

No, you can mash everything by hand, though texture may be slightly chunkier.

9. What type of flour works best?

All-purpose is standard, but chickpea or oat flour can be used for variation.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double the ingredients and cook in batches to serve more people.

Conclusion

These Lemon Chickpea Fritters are a quick, flavorful, and healthy option for busy days. With bright lemon zest, hearty chickpeas, and fragrant herbs, they’re endlessly adaptable and sure to become a staple in your vegetarian or Mediterranean-style meal rotation. Serve them hot, fresh, and with your favorite sides or sauces for a simple yet satisfying dish.

[tasty-recipe id=”19857″]

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