A vibrant and nourishing vegetarian burger, this Zucchini Fritters Burger with Herbed Yogurt Sauce is a fresh take on the classic burger. Crisp, golden zucchini fritters are paired with a cooling yogurt sauce packed with fresh herbs, nestled in a hearty whole grain bun. It’s a wholesome, light, and satisfying option perfect for lunch, dinner, or a plant-based meal any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This burger is a fantastic meat-free alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. The zucchini fritters are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, while the herbed yogurt sauce brings a tangy, creamy freshness that complements the fritters beautifully. It’s easy to prepare, nutrient-rich, and customizable—perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy more plant-based meals.

ingredients

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

For the zucchini fritters:

2 medium zucchinis, grated
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
1 egg
1/3 cup flour
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil, for frying

For the herbed yogurt sauce:

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon mint, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling:

4 whole grain or seeded burger buns
Sliced fresh mozzarella or halloumi (optional)
Fresh parsley, mint, or edible flowers for garnish

directions

Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
Squeeze the zucchini thoroughly using a clean towel or cheesecloth to remove excess water.
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with green onions, parsley, garlic, Parmesan (if using), egg, flour, and black pepper. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Form the zucchini mixture into 4 patties. Fry each fritter for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, mint, salt, and pepper to make the sauce. Chill until ready to use.
Lightly toast the burger buns.
Spread the herbed yogurt sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
Place a zucchini fritter on top. Add mozzarella or halloumi slices if using.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs or edible flowers, and cover with the top half of the bun.
Serve immediately with extra yogurt sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 zucchini fritter burgers.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg, and omit cheese or use vegan cheese.
Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeño to the fritter mixture.
Additional Toppings: Try adding sliced avocado, pickled onions, or a drizzle of tahini for extra flavor.
Mini Sliders: Make smaller fritters and use slider buns for party-sized portions.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp.

The yogurt sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Avoid storing assembled burgers, as the buns may become soggy.

FAQs

Can I bake the zucchini fritters instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I prevent the fritters from falling apart?

Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible, and don’t skip the egg and flour which act as binders.

Can I make the fritters ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

What type of yogurt should I use for the sauce?

Full-fat Greek yogurt is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but low-fat or dairy-free alternatives can also be used.

Can I freeze the zucchini fritters?

Yes, freeze cooked fritters in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven until hot and crisp.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can substitute dried herbs (use about one-third the amount), though fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor.

Are these burgers kid-friendly?

Absolutely. You can leave out strong herbs or garlic if preferred and serve with a simple yogurt dip.

What can I serve with these burgers?

Try them with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, feta, goat cheese, or cheddar all work well depending on your flavor preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, both the fritters and the sauce can be prepared ahead and stored separately for easy assembly.

Conclusion

The Zucchini Fritters Burger with Herbed Yogurt Sauce is a refreshing and nutritious vegetarian option that brings together crisp textures and bright, herby flavors. Whether served for a light dinner or a weekend lunch, this burger is a delicious way to enjoy seasonal ingredients in a creative and satisfying form.