For a handheld, healthy meal, try our summertime broccoli and turnip fritters with beet and garlic dip. The fritters can be made with different vegetables, however, the key is squeezing out excess liquid from the vegetables. The result is a delicious fritter with a crispy outside and a soft inside.Â
For the beet and garlic dip, a food processor or blender will be helpful for a smooth texture. However, mashing or grating can also achieve a similar result by hand.Â
This is a delicious meal to pack for a summer picnic. There are lots of ways to adjust it based on what you find at your local farmers’ market. For more fresh, local recipes, head to our recipe section.
Broccoli & Turnip FrittersÂ
IngredientsÂ
- 2 cups broccoli, finely chopped (florets + tender stems)
- 1 cup turnip, grated
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup flour (all‑purpose or whole wheat)
- ¼ cup grated onion (optional, adds moisture)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- Oil for pan‑cooking
- Optional (if available):
- ¼ cup grated cheese (adds flavor but is not required)
Quick Taste Test Tip
Before cooking all the fritters:
- Fry one small test fritter
- Taste and adjust salt or spices
InstructionsÂ
- Prep veggies: Chop broccoli small and squeeze grated turnip in a towel to remove extra moisture.
- Mix: In a bowl, combine all fritter ingredients.
- Cook: Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet. Drop spoonfuls of batter and flatten slightly.
- Flip: Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
- No-Fry Version: Bake the fritters in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool: Let cool before packing
Beet & Garlic Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked beets, grated or mashed (Use pre‑cooked or roasted ahead to save time)
- ½ cup plain yogurt or mashed white beans
- 1 small clove garlic, finely grated
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Stir all ingredients together.
- Taste and adjust salt or garlic.
- Store in a small container; keep shaded during the picnic.
Time & Budget Breakdown
- Active cooking time: ~40 minutes total
- Uses affordable vegetables
- Farmers market tip: ask for broccoli stems and small turnips — often cheaper
Picnic Tips
- Pack fritters with parchment between layers
- Serve dip in a sealed jar
- Great with fresh veggies or bread
Variations
- Egg‑free: Use 2 Tbsp ground flax + 5 Tbsp water
- Gluten‑free: Use chickpea flour or oat flour
- No- dairy dip: Use mashed beans or hummus base
Add More Vegetables
- Fritters: mix in grated carrot, zucchini (squeezed dry), or kale
- Dip: swirl in grated cucumber (squeezed) or herbs
