These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty way to enjoy your veggies! They’re golden, cheesy, and oh so crunchy, making them perfect as a snack or a side dish.
Honestly, I can never make enough of these! Kids love them, and I might just sneak a few for breakfast. 😋 Just mix, fry, and enjoy warm – it’s that simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for firm, bright squash. If you’re in a bind, zucchini can be a great substitute, offering a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste or try a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used here for binding, but you can swap it for gluten-free flour or almond flour if you prefer a gluten-free version. Just keep an eye on the moisture levels.
Garlic: I love using fresh garlic for flavor. However, garlic powder can work in a pinch; just use about 1/2 teaspoon instead. You could also experiment with minced shallots for a different taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Fritters Are Crispy?
Getting that delicious crunch is all about removing moisture from the squash before cooking. Here’s how:
- After grating your squash, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit in a colander for 10 minutes. This helps draw out the excess moisture.
- Squeeze the squash using a kitchen towel or cheesecloth until it’s as dry as possible. Less moisture means crunchier fritters!
- Fry in a hot skillet with enough oil to coat the bottom—this creates that crispy exterior. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each fritter space to brown evenly.
Enjoy your cooking, and don’t hesitate to tweak things as you go based on your taste preferences! Happy cooking!
Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10-15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have delicious, crispy fritters ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
First, grate the yellow squash and place the shreds in a colander. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out some moisture. This is an important step to ensure your fritters will be crispy!
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much liquid as you can from the squash. You want the shreds to be as dry as possible for the best texture in your fritters.
3. Make the Fritter Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the drained squash with the grated Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and parsley (if using). Mix everything together until well combined and a batter forms.
4. Heat the Oil:
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. You want a nice layer of oil for frying.
5. Cook the Fritters:
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Flatten the batter slightly with the back of a spoon. This helps them cook evenly.
6. Fry Until Golden:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Drain the Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. This will help keep them crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm fritters as they are or garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you wish. Enjoy these delicious crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters as a delightful appetizer or side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Squash for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh yellow squash for optimal texture and flavor. If you only have frozen squash, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using it in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
You can use grated Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly based on your choice!
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to restore their crispiness.
Can I Bake These Fritters Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly brush or spray them with oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway until they are golden and crispy.
