Tomato fritters are a quick and flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a cheesy blend of Parmesan and Pecorino, these savory bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you're entertaining guests or craving a Mediterranean-inspired snack, these fritters are a guaranteed hit.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Bursting With Flavor: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and two cheeses deliver rich, savory notes.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfect Appetizer or Snack: Serve at parties, as a side dish, or for a cozy aperitivo.
- Crispy Outside, Soft Inside: The perfect texture combo that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A satisfying meatless option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
What Are Tomato Fritters?
Tomato fritters, often inspired by Greek domatokeftedes, are savory, deep-fried patties made with chopped tomatoes, herbs, cheese, and flour. They're a popular street food and appetizer in Mediterranean cuisine and can be found in various versions across southern Europe. Their charm lies in the balance of fresh tomato acidity with the rich, cheesy batter that crisps up beautifully when fried.
Cooking Tips
- Drain Excess Tomato Juice: If tomatoes are too watery, lightly pat them dry to avoid soggy fritters.
- Use Fresh Basil: It adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
- Two-Cheese Blend: The mix of Parmesan and Pecorino gives depth—don’t skip one!
- Hot Oil is Key: Make sure your oil is hot (about 350°F/175°C) before frying to ensure golden, non-greasy results.
- Scoop Evenly: Use an ice cream scoop or two spoons for uniform size and even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Tomatoes?
Yes, but make sure to remove excess moisture. Roma or grape tomatoes are good substitutes.
What Oil Is Best for Frying Fritters?
Neutral oils like sunflower, vegetable, or canola work best due to their high smoke point.
Can I Make These in the Air Fryer?
Yes—brush with a little oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How Can I Make Them Spicier?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced fresh chili to the batter for heat.
Do These Fritters Reheat Well?
They’re best fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
How to Store
Allow the fritters to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to revive the crispy texture.
How to Freeze
Place the cooled fritters on a tray in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Ingredients
How to Make Cherry Tomato Fritters
;Resize,width=712;)
Wash and dice the cherry tomatoes. Set aside and gently blot with paper towels if very juicy.
Wash and dice the cherry tomatoes. Set aside and gently blot with paper towels if very juicy.
;Resize,width=712;)
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, pepper, Parmesan, Pecorino, chopped basil, and milk. Add the flour and baking powder. Mix until smooth and lump-free.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, pepper, Parmesan, Pecorino, chopped basil, and milk. Add the flour and baking powder. Mix until smooth and lump-free.
;Resize,width=712;)
Gently fold the chopped tomatoes into the batter.
Gently fold the chopped tomatoes into the batter.
;Resize,width=712;)
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil.
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil.
;Resize,width=712;)
Fry until golden and crisp on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Fry until golden and crisp on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
;Resize,width=712;)
Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with extra basil, and enjoy warm!
Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with extra basil, and enjoy warm!
;Resize,width=767;)
