These Zucchini and Haloumi Fritters with Hot Smoked Salmon are a fresh and delicious dish that combines the savory flavors of zucchini, haloumi, and smoked salmon. The fritters are light, crispy, and loaded with flavor, while the smoked salmon and crème fraîche add a touch of richness. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare, this dish is a crowd-pleaser whether served for lunch, dinner, or as a light brunch.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 500g zucchini

• 100g haloumi

• 1 bunch chives

• 75g (½ cup) self-raising flour

• 2 eggs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 150g packet Australian hot smoked salmon

• 85g (⅓ cup) crème fraîche

• 60g baby rocket

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Directions

1. Prepare the Zucchini and Haloumi: Coarsely grate the zucchini. Use clean hands to squeeze out excess liquid. Place the grated zucchini in a large bowl. Coarsely grate the haloumi and add it to the bowl. Chop the chives, reserving a little for garnish, and add the remaining chives to the bowl.

2. Make the Fritter Batter: Add the self-raising flour to the zucchini mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Create a well in the center of the mixture, then crack the eggs into the well and whisk them with a fork until fully combined.

3. Cook the Fritters: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the fritter mixture and press it out into an even layer. Cook for 3 minutes or until the underside is golden and set. Place a plate over the fritter and carefully invert the pan so that the fritter is on the plate. Slide the fritter back into the pan to cook the other side for about 2 minutes.

4. Prepare the Salmon: While the fritter is cooking, remove the skin from the hot smoked salmon and break it into large flakes.

5. Assemble the Dish: Turn the fritter onto a serving plate. Top with the smoked salmon, a dollop of crème fraîche, and the baby rocket. Sprinkle with the reserved chives and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Protein: 32 g

• Total Fat: 26 g

  • Saturated Fat: 8 g

• Sodium: 830 mg

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 5 g

• Vitamin A: 1320 IU

• Vitamin C: 32 mg

• Calcium: 220 mg

• Iron: 3 mg

The Art of Fritters: Crispy, Tender, and Flavorful

Fritters are a popular choice in many cuisines, offering a delicious way to incorporate vegetables into a meal. The key to a great fritter is the balance between crispy exteriors and soft, flavorful interiors. In this dish, zucchini is the main vegetable used, providing moisture, mild flavor, and a bit of crunch. Haloumi, a firm, brined cheese, is the perfect complement to zucchini, as it adds richness and saltiness to the fritters without overpowering the other ingredients. The fritters are held together with self-raising flour, eggs, and the addition of chives, which infuse the batter with freshness and mild onion flavor.

The self-raising flour helps the fritters puff up slightly as they cook, creating that satisfying crispy texture on the outside while maintaining a soft, light interior. This texture contrast makes each bite delightful and keeps the dish feeling light despite its rich flavors. The use of olive oil to cook the fritters ensures a crispy finish, while also imparting a bit of healthy fat, which complements the fritters’ savory profile. The ease of making fritters and their ability to hold various ingredients, like zucchini and cheese, makes them a wonderful base for any number of toppings, from vegetables to proteins.

The Appeal of Hot Smoked Salmon

Hot smoked salmon is a luxurious addition to the fritters, adding a smoky depth of flavor that elevates the dish. The rich, flaky texture of the salmon contrasts beautifully with the crunchy fritters and creamy crème fraîche. Smoked salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. This nutrient-dense fish not only provides a savory punch but also delivers essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, B12, and selenium. The smoky flavor complements the mild zucchini and the saltiness of the haloumi, creating a perfect harmony of tastes. Hot smoked salmon is a great protein source that feels indulgent while still being relatively healthy, making it an excellent choice for adding richness to the dish without the heaviness of fried meats.

By breaking the smoked salmon into large flakes and topping the fritters with it, the fish becomes the star of the dish, adding flavor to each bite. The hot smoked salmon’s gentle smokiness also enhances the creaminess of the crème fraîche, tying everything together beautifully.

The Creamy, Tangy Finish: Crème Fraîche and Fresh Rocket

The crème fraîche topping adds a cooling, tangy element to the fritters and salmon. Its smooth and creamy texture balances out the richness of the salmon and the saltiness of the haloumi, providing a perfect counterpoint to the other flavors. Crème fraîche has a slightly tangy taste, which helps cut through the savory elements of the dish while adding a luxurious creaminess. Its light acidity also complements the natural sweetness of the zucchini, creating a well-rounded bite.

Baby rocket, or arugula, adds a fresh, peppery bite that cuts through the richness of the dish, providing a burst of freshness with every mouthful. This leafy green is a great addition to the plate, offering a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the rich, creamy components. The vibrant green color of the rocket also adds a pop of freshness to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is flavorful.

The Versatility of Zucchini and Haloumi Fritters

One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. The zucchini and haloumi fritters can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences. For example, for those looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the hot smoked salmon and serve the fritters with more vegetables or a different protein source, such as a poached egg or roasted chickpeas. The fritters can also be served with other toppings like hummus, tahini, or even a tomato-based salsa, allowing you to switch up the flavor profile based on what you have on hand or what you prefer.

If you’re looking to make the dish gluten-free, you can swap out the self-raising flour for a gluten-free flour blend, such as rice flour or chickpea flour. Haloumi is naturally gluten-free, so this swap will make the entire dish suitable for those avoiding gluten. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or a mild cheddar, if haloumi is not available.

For those seeking a lighter version, you can opt for a smaller amount of crème fraîche or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Similarly, you could reduce the oil used to cook the fritters or even bake them in the oven for a lower-fat option.

A Balanced Meal in One Dish

Zucchini and Haloumi Fritters with Hot Smoked Salmon is a balanced meal that offers a great combination of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The zucchini provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while the haloumi adds calcium and protein. The hot smoked salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and the crème fraîche contributes richness and creaminess, along with beneficial probiotics. The rocket adds a nutritional boost with its high levels of vitamin K, folate, and calcium.

The dish is not only satisfying but also nutrient-dense, making it a great option for a wholesome lunch, dinner, or brunch. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent flavors and healthy ingredients, making it a wonderful addition to your regular meal rotation.

Perfect for Entertaining or Quick Weeknight Meals

This dish is as suitable for a casual weeknight meal as it is for a more elaborate dinner party. The fritters can be easily prepared in advance, and the salmon can be quickly flaked just before serving, making it a perfect dish to serve to guests or to enjoy as a family dinner. The combination of textures and flavors will impress your guests without requiring hours of preparation. Additionally, the dish is easy to scale up if you need to serve a larger group, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, family meals, or special occasions.

Conclusion: A Delicious, Flavor-Packed Dish

Zucchini and Haloumi Fritters with Hot Smoked Salmon offer a unique, flavorful twist on traditional fritters, combining savory cheese, tender vegetables, and rich smoked salmon. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. With its versatility, it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs, while the balance of textures—crispy fritters, creamy toppings, and tender salmon—makes it a joy to eat. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a light brunch, or a dish to impress at a gathering, Zucchini and Haloumi Fritters with Hot Smoked Salmon are sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.