These Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters are a tasty treat! With tender squash and a crispy coating, they make a great snack or side dish. Plus, who can resist the cheesy flavor?
Making these fritters is fun and easy. I love serving them with a dip or just enjoyed on their own. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast at any meal! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh medium yellow squash is the star here. If you can’t find it, zucchini works well as a substitute. The flavors will be slightly different but still delicious.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory kick. Pecorino Romano can substitute for a sharper taste. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option that adds a cheesy flavor, too!
All-Purpose Flour: While I love all-purpose for the perfect texture, gluten-free flour blends can also do the trick. Just make sure they include binding agents like xanthan gum.
Olive Oil: I prefer extra-virgin olive oil for frying; it enhances the flavor. Feel free to use vegetable oil or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand.
How Can I Make Sure My Fritters Are Crispy?
The secret to crispy fritters lies in two key steps: removing excess moisture from the squash and frying them properly. Moisture is the enemy of crispy textures!
- Slice the squash and sprinkle with salt, allowing it to rest and release moisture. The salt helps speed up the process.
- After resting, always squeeze out as much liquid as you can using a kitchen towel. This is crucial!
- Ensure your frying oil is hot before adding the batter. This helps to create that golden crust. If the oil isn’t hot enough, they may soak up more oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—frying in batches allows for better heat distribution and crispness.
With these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect crispy finish on your fritters! Enjoy your cooking!
Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium yellow squash
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or marinara sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So in total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your fritters in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by washing your yellow squash and slicing them into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Place the slices in a colander and sprinkle them with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture, which is key for making crispy fritters!
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
After the squash has rested, take a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels and gently squeeze each slice to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is super important to achieve that crispy texture in your fritters!
3. Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, crack the egg and whisk it. Then add in the flour, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, black pepper, the rest of the salt, and the optional Italian herbs. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Combine the Squash and Batter:
Add the dried squash slices to the bowl with the batter. Gently toss until all the squash is well coated in the mixture. You want to be gentle here so the slices stay intact!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is nice and hot before adding the batter.
6. Fry the Fritters:
Drop spoonfuls of the squash batter into the skillet—about 2 tablespoons each. Flatten them slightly using the back of a spoon to form small patties. Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If the pan starts to get dry, feel free to add more oil!
7. Drain and Garnish:
Once they’re done, transfer the cooked fritters onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. This will help them stay crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your fritters with chopped parsley or chives. Serve them warm with sour cream or marinara sauce for dipping—yum!
Enjoy your Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters as a delicious appetizer or side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is recommended, zucchini works great as a substitute. You can also mix varieties for added flavor and texture!
How Can I Make These Fritters Healthier?
If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can bake them instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the fritters on a lined baking sheet, and lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I Make the Batter in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the squash right before frying for maximum crispiness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
These fritters are sure to be a hit, and hopefully, these FAQs help you enjoy them even more!
