June 24, 2026 · 10 min

Crispy Zucchini Patties with Charred Corn Salad and Lime Crema

Breakfast10 min2346 cal / serving

These crispy zucchini patties are a delicious way to enjoy summer squash. Shredded zucchini is mixed with Monterey Jack cheese, eggs and a blend of Southwest spices, then pan-fried until golden brown. The result is a tender, flavorful patty with a satisfying crunch.

Serve them over a charred corn salad tossed with fresh tomatoes and scallions, then drizzle with a creamy lime crema and your favorite hot sauce. Every bite is a perfect combination of textures and bright, bold flavors.


Recipe details

Breakfast10 min2346 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories2346 kcalProtein9.7 gFat242.1 gCarbs40.7 gSugar14.3 gFiber4.4 gSodium1651 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Eggs2 unit EggsView ingredient guide
Sour Cream4 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Zucchini1 unit ZucchiniView ingredient guide
Tomato1 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Lime1 unit LimeView ingredient guide
Scallions2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guide
Hot Sauce1 teaspoon Hot SauceView ingredient guide
Flour0.5 cup FlourView ingredient guide
Corn1 unit CornView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil4 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guide
Butter2 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guide
Salt2 teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture. Transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Add eggs, 2 tablespoons sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, ancho chili powder, Southwest spice blend, flour, 1 teaspoon salt and a pinch of black pepper to the zucchini. Mix until well combined.
  3. Heat 2 teaspoons oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening slightly to form patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter, adding more oil and butter as needed.
  4. While patties cook, prepare the corn salad. Cut the corn kernels off the cob. Heat remaining oil in a separate skillet over high heat. Add corn and cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes until charred. Add diced tomato and sliced scallions; cook for 1 minute more. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
  5. Make the lime crema: In a small bowl, combine remaining 2 tablespoons sour cream, juice of half the lime and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
  6. To serve, divide the charred corn salad among plates. Top with zucchini patties. Drizzle with lime crema and hot sauce. Garnish with remaining lime wedges.

Recipe Tips

Squeeze the grated zucchini thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible; this ensures the patties hold together and get crispy.

For even cooking, flatten the patties to about 1/2-inch thickness before frying.

Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level.

FAQ

Can I make these zucchini patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the patties and reheat them in a skillet or oven at 350°F until warm. The corn salad is best served fresh.

What can I use instead of ancho chili powder?

You can substitute regular chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

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