These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are super tasty and fun to make! With fresh yellow squash and cheesy goodness, they bring a delightful crunch to your plate.
I love serving them as a snack or side dish—dipping them in ketchup makes them even better! Give them a try next time you want a yummy veggie treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: The star of the fritters! Look for firm, bright yellow squash. Zucchini can be used instead if you can’t find yellow squash. Just keep in mind that zucchini has a slightly different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a delicious salty taste. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use nutritional yeast if you want a dairy-free option.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind everything together. If you’re looking for gluten-free, almond flour or chickpea flour works well, but they might change the texture slightly.
Egg: This adds moisture and helps bind the fritters. For a vegan version, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water or a mashed banana, though the texture may vary.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Fry on Fritters?
Proper frying is crucial for crispy fritters! Here’s the lowdown on how to get them perfectly golden brown:
- Make sure to heat the oil enough before frying—around 350°F is ideal. You can test by dropping in a bit of the batter; it should sizzle.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil’s temperature, making them soggy instead of crispy.
- Keep the cooked fritters warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish frying the rest.
Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 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 tasty recipe only takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy these crunchy fritters fresh and hot!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash and placing it in a colander. Sprinkle the grated squash with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps remove excess moisture, making your fritters crispier!
2. Squeeze Out the Liquid:
After 10 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth. Use it to squeeze the squash and remove as much liquid as you can. The drier the squash, the crunchier your fritters will be!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your squeezed squash, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything together until well combined—this is where all those yummy flavors come together!
4. Heat the Oil:
Pour about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking, perfect for frying!
5. Form the Fritters:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the squash mixture and form it into small patties. Make sure they’re not too thick, so they’ll cook evenly!
6. Fry the Fritters:
Carefully place the patties in the hot oil in batches. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remember not to overcrowd the pan!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once they’re done frying, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious fritters warm, and consider adding a dipping sauce like sour cream or marinara for an extra tasty treat. Enjoy your crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute for yellow squash. Just keep in mind that zucchini has a slightly different flavor, but it will still work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I Make the Fritters Without Cheese?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option. You might consider adding a bit more flour or a plant-based cheese alternative to help bind the fritters together.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Freeze the Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze the fritters! After frying, let them cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
