This baked zucchini fritters recipe combines the flavors of Greek zucchini fritters and hash browns but with the healthiness of baking instead of frying. They are crispy, delicious, and perfect for zucchini season. Serve them with a creamy dip or seasoned yogurt for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 450 g / 16 oz zucchini (2 medium)
• 300 g / 10.5 oz potato (2 medium)
• 1 tsp salt
• Pepper
• 3 small spring onions/scallions, finely sliced
• 15 g / 0.5 oz dill
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 50 g / heaped 1/3 cup cornstarch or potato starch
• Olive oil or other vegetable oil
• Seasoned yogurt or dip, to serve

Directions

1. Grate zucchini and potato coarsely using a food processor or by hand.
2. Stir 1 tsp of salt through the mixture and set aside for 10-15 minutes.
3. Finely slice spring onions and dill. Preheat oven to 220° C / 425° F and line a baking tray with baking paper.
4. Squeeze out all excess liquid from the zucchini and potato mixture using a muslin cloth or by hand.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine squeezed vegetables, spring onions, dill, lemon zest, pepper, and starch. Mix thoroughly.
6. Divide the mixture into 12 patties (about 40 g / 1.4 oz each). Squeeze each portion in your hand to shape into flat discs.
7. Arrange fritters on the baking tray, brush with oil on both sides.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and crispy.
9. Serve warm with your favorite dip or seasoned yogurt.

Nutrition Facts (Per Fritter – Approximate)

• Calories: 55-65 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10-12 g
• Protein: 1-2 g
• Fat: 2-3 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.3-0.5 g
• Fiber: 1-2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 200-250 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Smashed Sheet Pan Potatoes are the ultimate combination of crunchy, smoky, and spicy flavors. The golden-brown, crispy edges contrast perfectly with the soft, fluffy center, while a bold seasoning blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder gives them a deep, rich flavor.

Topped with a creamy, dairy-free Jalapeño Cilantro Aioli, these potatoes become an irresistible snack, appetizer, or side dish that will impress at any gathering. The spicy, zesty aioli adds a fresh, herby kick, making these smashed potatoes a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue, game night, or family dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

• Crispy & Crunchy Texture: Roasting the potatoes at high heat creates perfectly crisp edges with a tender inside.
• Smoky & Spicy Seasoning: A flavorful mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and tomato paste infuses the potatoes with bold, savory depth.
• Dairy-Free & Vegan-Friendly Aioli: The Jalapeño Cilantro Aioli is made with cashews and fresh ingredients, providing a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy finish.
• Versatile Serving Options: These smashed potatoes work as a side dish, appetizer, or snack and can be customized with different toppings.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Made with wholesome ingredients, these potatoes are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with fiber and vitamins.

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Achieving ultra-crispy smashed potatoes requires the right technique. Here’s how to get the best results:

• Use Small Red Potatoes: They have thin skins that crisp up beautifully while keeping a soft interior. Baby Yukon Gold potatoes work well too.
• Boil Until Just Fork-Tender: Overcooking can make the potatoes too mushy and hard to smash properly. Aim for 15 minutes of boiling.
• Smash Gently: Use a flat-bottomed glass or potato masher to press the potatoes down without breaking them apart completely.
• Roast at High Heat: Baking at 450°F (230°C) ensures maximum crispiness.
• Flip for Even Crisping: Turning the potatoes halfway through roasting ensures that both sides get golden brown and crunchy.
• Use Avocado Oil for Extra Crispiness: This oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for roasting. It also adds a subtle buttery flavor.

Why This Jalapeño Cilantro Aioli is the Perfect Topping

This Jalapeño Cilantro Aioli takes the smashed potatoes to the next level with its creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy flavors. Here’s why it works so well:

• Creamy & Dairy-Free: Cashews blended with water create a smooth, velvety texture that mimics traditional mayo-based aioli.
• Bright & Fresh: Fresh cilantro and lemon juice add a zesty, herby punch that balances the richness of the potatoes.
• Spicy & Flavorful: Jalapeño and cumin provide a mild heat and earthy warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Perfect Drizzle or Dip: The aioli is thick enough for dipping yet smooth enough to drizzle, making it a versatile and delicious sauce.

How to Serve These Crispy Smashed Potatoes

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of meals and occasions:

As a Side Dish

These crispy potatoes make an excellent side for:

• Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Pair them with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or bell peppers for a balanced meal.
• Burgers & Sandwiches: Serve alongside a veggie burger, pulled jackfruit sandwich, or grilled portobello mushroom burger.
• BBQ or Grilled Proteins: Complements dishes like grilled tofu, tempeh, or seared plant-based sausages.

As an Appetizer or Snack

• Game Day Treat: These potatoes are a fantastic finger food for parties or gatherings.
• Topped with Guacamole & Salsa: A Tex-Mex twist that adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Loaded Potato Bites: Sprinkle with vegan cheese, green onions, and crumbled tempeh bacon for a decadent snack.

Topping Ideas & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

• Cheesy Garlic Version: Add vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast and a sprinkle of roasted garlic powder.
• Spicy Buffalo Style: Drizzle with vegan buffalo sauce and top with chopped green onions.
• Mediterranean Twist: Replace the aioli with vegan tzatziki and sprinkle with sumac and fresh dill.
• Extra Crunch: Top with crushed roasted almonds or sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch.
• Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of maple syrup mixed with cayenne for a unique flavor combination.

Health Benefits of This Dish

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients and health benefits:

• Rich in Fiber & Vitamins: Potatoes provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, while the aioli offers healthy fats and plant-based protein from cashews.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Garlic, cumin, and turmeric (if added) contain anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall wellness.
• Gut-Friendly & Dairy-Free: The lack of dairy makes this dish easier to digest, while the fiber helps support gut health.
• Healthy Fats from Avocado Oil & Cashews: These provide omega-9 fatty acids, which support heart health.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and enjoy them later:

• Refrigeration: Store potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the aioli separate for best results.
• Freezing: Not recommended for this dish, as the texture of the potatoes changes when thawed.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for an extra crispy finish.
  • Skillet: Sauté in a pan with a little oil for 3-5 minutes.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is great for a variety of occasions because it’s:

• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal ingredients make it a go-to recipe.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves crispy potatoes, making it ideal for gatherings.
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, so it works for many dietary preferences.
• Customizable: You can tweak the flavors, toppings, and spice level to your liking.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Works as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack.

Conclusion

These Crispy Smashed Sheet Pan Potatoes with Jalapeño Cilantro Aioli are a game-changing side dish that delivers bold, smoky flavors, satisfying crunch, and a creamy, spicy kick. Whether you’re serving them at a casual dinner, a special gathering, or as a fun snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.