Crispy Spinach & Feta Cornmeal Fritters
Enjoy a delightful blend of crispy and tender textures with these Cornmeal Fritters, packed with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180kcal
Ingredients
Fritter Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal Provides a hearty, grainy texture
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Adds lightness to the fritters
- 1 tsp baking powder Ensures fritters puff up nicely
- 1/2 tsp salt Enhances the flavors
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Adds warmth
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano Infuses herby flavors
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika Offers subtle smokiness
- 1 large egg Binds ingredients together
- 1/2 cup buttermilk Adds creaminess
- 2 tbsp melted butter Adds richness
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped Provides flavor and nutrition
- 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances savory notes
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese Adds creaminess and saltiness
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese Provides luscious texture
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped Contributes refreshing flavor
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest Brightens flavors
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Enhances earthiness
- to taste salt & black pepper Adjust for seasoning
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for shallow frying) For frying to a crispy exterior
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Toss in chopped spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Remove from heat and mix in feta, ricotta, dill, lemon zest, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper.
- Allow mixture to cool slightly.
Dough Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Introduce egg, buttermilk, and melted butter into dry ingredients and stir gently until you have a thick, spoonable dough.
Fritter Assembly
- Take about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten it in your palm.
- Add about 1 tablespoon of spinach-feta filling in the center, cover with another small amount of dough, and seal the edges.
Frying
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Gently place fritters in hot oil and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving
- Serve fritters warm, possibly with Greek yogurt or tzatziki for dipping.
- Garnish with extra feta and fresh herbs.
Notes
For best results, fry in batches to maintain temperature. Can be baked as a healthier alternative at 400°F for 20 minutes.