Cottage Cheese Zucchini Fritter Waffle Grid

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini (medium, grated)
• 0.5 cup cottage cheese
• 1 egg (large)
• 0.33 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp green onion or parsley (chopped, optional)
• cooking spray (or a little oil, for greasing)

Steps

1. 1

   Grate the zucchini using a box grater, then place it in a clean towel or several paper towels.

2. 2

   Squeeze the zucchini very well to remove as much water as possible. This helps the waffle grid crisp instead of turning soft.

3. 3

   Preheat your waffle iron until hot.

4. 4

   In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed zucchini, cottage cheese, egg, shredded cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs if using.

5. 5

   Grease both sides of the waffle iron with cooking spray or a light brush of oil.

6. 6

   Spoon the zucchini mixture into the waffle iron and spread it into an even layer. Do not overfill.

7. 7

   Close the waffle iron and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the edges are golden, crisp, and the steam has slowed down.

8. 8

   Carefully remove the waffle grid with a fork or silicone spatula.

9. 9

   Let it cool for 1 to 2 minutes so it firms up before slicing.

10. 10

    Serve warm with Greek yogurt ranch, sour cream, marinara, tzatziki, or your favorite dip.

Notes

Squeezing the zucchini is the most important step to avoid a soggy result. If you don't have Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or extra shredded cheese. Frozen zucchini can be used if thawed and squeezed extremely well. Mini waffle makers also work well; just adjust the quantity of batter per batch.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• snack
• vegetarian
• gluten-free
• high-protein
• low-carb
• waffle iron
• zucchini