Crispy Santorini Tomato Fritters: The Greek Island Snack You’ll Crave Again and Again

While Greece is famous for dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and tzatziki, each island has its own culinary gems—and Santorini’s tomato fritters (known locally as domatokeftedes) are a beloved favorite. Crisp on the outside, tender and herby on the inside, these golden fritters are packed with sun-dried Santorini tomatoes, fresh herbs, onion, and flour. They’re simple to make but bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

What makes Santorini tomato fritters so unique is the island’s volcanic soil and dry climate, which give the local cherry tomatoes an incredibly rich and slightly sweet flavor. This traditional vegetarian dish is a perfect representation of Greek island cuisine: rustic, honest, and designed to highlight fresh local ingredients.

In this recipe guide, we’ll walk you through how to make authentic Santorini tomato fritters at home—whether you’re reminiscing about a Greek getaway or dreaming of your first visit. You’ll also learn the best time to enjoy them and the perfect accompaniments to complete your Greek-inspired table.

Here’s how to make homemade Santorini tomato fritters, along with some tips for perfecting the recipe.

Read here best breakfast in Greece, Greek food and drinks in Greece

Read here best Greece sim card for tourist, our Greece travel tips and Budget Travel in Greece.

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki

Best Time to Eat Santorini Tomato Fritters

Domatokeftedes are most commonly served as a meze (small plate) and enjoyed during lunch or early evening meals, often alongside other shared dishes.

They shine during the warmer months, especially spring through late summer, when tomatoes are in season and fresh herbs are at their most fragrant. On Santorini, they’re often paired with sea views and crisp white wine—making them perfect for relaxed al fresco dining.

Best Pairings for Santorini Tomato Fritters

To enjoy them like a local, pair your tomato fritters with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or a side of tzatziki for cool contrast. A glass of Assyrtiko, the crisp white wine native to Santorini, balances the dish’s savory, herbaceous notes beautifully.

For a full meze spread, serve them alongside olives, grilled halloumi, marinated octopus, or dolmades (stuffed grape leaves). Finish with a slice of watermelon or a drizzle of Greek honey over yogurt for a light, sweet ending.

One ongoing debate about tomato fritters is whether they should include cheese in the batter. Some cooks insist on crumbled feta for added flavor, while others believe the purity of Santorini tomatoes should remain the star.

Another point of contention lies in the batter itself. Traditional recipes use flour, but modern versions sometimes substitute with breadcrumbs or chickpea flour, sparking discussion about what counts as “authentic.”

Even the frying method is debated. Some prefer shallow frying for lighter fritters, while others argue that deep frying delivers the crispness that makes them irresistible. These variations highlight how even simple recipes can divide opinions in passionate food cultures.

How to Make Santorini Tomato Fritters

Santorini Tomato Fritters Recipe Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2-3 green onions, finely sliced
1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Olive oil, for frying

Get the best deals for your home and kitchen needs

Step By Step How to Make Santorini Tomato Fritters

Prepare the Tomatoes

Finely chop the tomatoes and place them in a colander. Allow them to drain for about 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Press them gently to extract as much liquid as possible. This step is important to prevent the fritters from becoming too wet and soggy.

Make the Fritter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tomatoes, chopped onion, green onions, mint, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the tomato mixture, stirring gently until everything is well combined. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but still slightly wet. If the mixture is too loose, add a little more flour.

Fry the Fritters

In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Test the temperature by dropping a small spoonful of the batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form small patties.

Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve

Serve the Santorini tomato fritters warm, accompanied by Greek yogurt or tzatziki for dipping.

Tips To Make Santorini Tomato Fritters

Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste. Removing excess water from the tomatoes is crucial for achieving a good texture. Fresh mint and parsley are essential for authentic flavor. Adjust the quantities based on your preference.

Maintain a consistent medium heat to ensure the fritters cook evenly and don’t burn. Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the fritters to crisp up properly.

How Many Calories Have Santorini Tomato Fritters

Each fritter (depending on size and the amount of oil absorbed during frying) typically contains between 80 to 120 calories. The exact calorie count will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve tomato fritters piled high on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a rustic presentation. A side of lemon wedges adds brightness.

For a light meal, pair them with a Mediterranean grain salad or bulgur pilaf. This combination turns the fritters into a balanced vegetarian dish.

At parties, mini tomato fritters make excellent finger food. Skewer them with toothpicks and serve with dipping sauces for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Final Thoughts

Santorini tomato fritters capture the essence of Greek island cooking: simple, fresh ingredients elevated by tradition and care. They’re proof that great flavor doesn’t require complexity.

By making them at home, you not only recreate a taste of Santorini but also embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle of savoring food slowly and socially.

Whether you serve them as a snack, a side, or a centerpiece, these fritters will transport you straight to a sunny terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea. Once tried, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.