August 6, 2026

Sneaky Zucchini (and what to do with it)

It happens every August like clockwork.

You turn your back on the garden for five minutes, and suddenly a zucchini the size of a baseball bat is sitting on your front porch. You check the kitchen counter—two more have mysteriously appeared. You walk out to your car... wait, did a neighbor sneak one into your backseat while you were in the grocery store?

Around this time of year in Minnesota, runaway zucchini isn't just garden produce—it’s practically a localized phenomenon! Whether you planted a single seed that took over the yard or found a surprise basket gifted on your doorstep, we have good news: we know exactly how to turn that harvest surplus into something delicious.

Vegetable vegetarian zucchini fritters on plate over dark stone background. Top view, flat lay

Featured Recipe: Crispy Summer Zucchini & Feta Fritters

Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 medium zucchini, coarsely grated
1/2 tsp salt
2 green onions, finely sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or your favorite gluten-free blend)
1 large egg, beaten
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh dill and mint, chopped
Olive oil for pan-frying
Lemon wedges and garlic yogurt sauce for serving

Instructions

Squeeze Out Moisture: Toss grated zucchini with salt in a colander and let sit for 10 minutes. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove excess liquid (this is the absolute key to maximum crispiness!).
Combine: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, green onions, feta, flour, egg, garlic, and fresh herbs. Season lightly with fresh black pepper.
Pan-Fry: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop 3-inch mounds of batter into the pan, flattening gently with a spatula. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges and a dollop of garlic herb yogurt.

The Wine Pairing: Rolling Forks Vineyards La Crescent

Pairing summer squash can be tricky because of its delicate, grassy sweetness—which is why our La Crescent is an absolute match made in vineyard heaven!

Our crisp, aromatic La Crescent features vibrant citrus and stone fruit notes with a lively acidity that easily cuts through the rich, pan-fried fritters and salty feta. The bright finish lifts the fresh dill and mint, creating a light, refreshing summer pairing for an afternoon on the patio.

August Tasting Room Special
Don't forget—our crisp La Crescent and rich, dry Marquette are on special all month long! Stop by the winery or order online to enjoy Buy One, Get One 50% Off (or Buy 3, Get 1 FREE) through August 31st.

Forget your leftover garden veggies and join us on the patio overlooking Lake Minnewaska this weekend!