These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! With a delightful crunch and cheesy flavor, they make a great snack or side dish.
I love how simple they are to whip up. Just mix the squash, cheese, and a few other goodies, then fry until golden. They disappear fast—you might want to double the recipe! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the recipe! Look for medium-sized squash for the best texture. If you don’t have yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute with a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano can work as a sharp alternative. Vegan cheese can also fit if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard for binding. If you need a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour; just keep an eye on the texture as it may vary slightly.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and fresh flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with any fresh herbs you like, such as chives or basil.
How Do I Make Sure My Fritters Are Crispy?
To get that wonderful crispy texture, moisture control is key. After grating the squash, salt it and let it sit to draw out water. Here’s a simple process:
- After 10 minutes, use a clean towel to squeeze out extra moisture from the squash.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fritters—test this by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and bubble up.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the heat of the oil, ensuring even browning.
These tips help achieve a crunchy outside while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus about 15-20 minutes for frying. In total, you can expect to spend around 30-35 minutes making these delicious fritters. They’re quick and easy, so you can whip them up for lunch or dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated squash in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is important for achieving that crispy texture in your fritters!
2. Squeeze Out Excess Water:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and use it to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the salted squash. The drier the squash, the crispier your fritters will be!
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and parsley if you’re using it. Stir everything together until well combined, creating a thick and hearty batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when a small amount of batter dropped in sizzles immediately.
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, gently flattening each pile to form small patties. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—this lets the fritters cook evenly and get crispy!
6. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Flip them carefully using a spatula to ensure they don’t break apart.
7. Drain the Oil:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm on a platter, optionally with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. They make a delicious snack or a delightful side dish alongside a main meal!
Enjoy your homemade crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters! Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini can be a great substitute if you prefer its taste or have it on hand. The texture will remain similar, making for delicious fritters.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, you can reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, use a toaster oven for a quick reheating!
Can I Make These Fritters in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time! Just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Fry the fritters fresh when you’re ready for the best texture!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Fritters?
These fritters are fantastic on their own or with a dip! Consider serving them with sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy aioli for added flavor. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite sauces!
