These savory zucchini and cabbage patties make an easy, satisfying option for a snack, side dish, or light lunch. Crisp on the outside and tender in the center, they rely on simple vegetables and herbs for flavor rather than heavy seasoning or complicated steps.One of their strengths is flexibility. The base recipe welcomes adjustment—different herbs, spices, or cheeses can be added depending on what you have on hand. They work well as a vegetarian dish that still feels hearty, and they’re especially useful when you need a practical way to use extra zucchini or cabbage.

To begin, grate the zucchini and finely shred the cabbage. This step matters: squeezing out as much moisture as possible helps the patties hold together and prevents them from becoming soggy. Combine the vegetables with chopped onion, garlic, parsley, eggs, and, if desired, a small amount of Parmesan cheese for added depth. Breadcrumbs and a bit of flour provide structure, while salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin add warmth without overpowering the vegetables.Shape the mixture into small patties, roughly three inches wide. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the patties for about three to four minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Cooking in batches and avoiding overcrowding helps them brown evenly. Once done, transfer them to paper towels to absorb excess oil.