These crispy parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty treat! With golden squash and melted parmesan, they make a perfect snack or side dish. Easy to cook and sure to impress!
Seriously, these fritters are like little bites of sunshine. I love serving them with a dip or just munching on them straight from the pan—so good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! You can also use zucchini if you prefer or if that’s what you have on hand. They will have a slightly different texture but will still taste great.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, you can try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute, though I find Parmesan gives the best crunch!
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind everything together. If you’re gluten-free, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Both options will work, just be mindful of the texture!
Eggs: They act as a binder for the fritters. If you need a vegan substitute, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a rich flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is best for that punch of taste!
How Do I Make the Perfect Fritters?
Getting those fritters crispy takes a bit of care, but it’s worth it! Follow these steps to achieve that golden brown goodness:
- Make sure to drain the grated squash well. The more moisture you remove, the crispier your fritters will be.
- When mixing the batter, don’t overwork it. You want it combined without being too dense.
- Heat the oil to medium; if it’s too hot, your fritters will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cold, they’ll absorb too much oil.
- Scoop the batter into the oil carefully. Space them out to avoid crowding, which helps them cook evenly.
- Flip them when they’re golden brown. This usually takes 3-4 minutes per side. If they stick, give them a little more time!
Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a great choice for a quick and tasty dish. In total, you should plan for about 30-35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash into a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and toss it around a bit. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to pull out extra moisture from the squash, making your fritters crispier!
2. Drain the Squash:
After 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth and use it to squeeze the grated squash gently. Get rid of as much liquid as you can—this step is key for that crispy texture!
3. Mix the Fritter Batter:
In the same bowl with your drained squash, add the grated Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, minced garlic, parsley (if you’re using it), black pepper, and baking powder. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix; just combine until it all sticks together.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat. This is where the magic happens, so make sure your oil is hot enough to bubble around a piece of batter to create that golden crust!
5. Form and Fry the Fritters:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter, shape them into small patties. Gently place them into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a delightful squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top.
Enjoy your crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works just as well and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just remember to drain it thoroughly just like you would with yellow squash.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to restore their crispiness instead of the microwave, which might make them soggy!
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just be aware the texture might be a little different, but they will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare the Batter Ahead of Time?
You can prep the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours before frying. Just give it a stir to ensure everything is mixed well before cooking, as some moisture might separate.
