Zucchini Burgers

Zucchini burgers are a tasty vegetable alternative to classic meat hamburgers. Here’s how you can prepare them:

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 egg (optional, can be omitted for a vegan version)
• 50 g grated cheese (such as Parmesan or Pecorino, optional for a vegan version)
• 50 g breadcrumbs
• 1 garlic clove
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Aromatic herbs to taste (basil, mint, parsley)
• Extra virgin olive oil for cooking

Preparation

1. Start by washing and grating the zucchinis. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with a bit of salt, and let them rest for about 15-20 minutes to release excess water.
2. Meanwhile, finely chop the garlic and aromatic herbs.
3. Squeeze the zucchinis well to remove as much water as possible and transfer them to a bowl.
4. Add the egg (if using), grated cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If necessary, add more breadcrumbs to reach the desired consistency.
5. Divide the mixture and form burgers with your hands. If the mixture sticks, lightly moisten your hands with water.
6. Heat a drizzle of oil in a non-stick pan and cook the zucchini burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
7. Once ready, you can serve them in a bun with your favorite sauces and sides or as a main dish with a side of salad or vegetables.

Fun Facts

Zucchini burgers are a healthy version of traditional hamburgers, and are often chosen by those following vegetarian or vegan diets. They are also a good choice for those looking to increase their vegetable intake in their diet. You can vary the recipe by adding other types of grated vegetables, such as carrots or celery, or replacing the breadcrumbs with oats or cooked quinoa to enrich the nutritional value.