These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies! They’re golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor, perfect as a snack or side dish.
Your friends and family won’t even notice they’re eating squash! I love dipping these in sauce or just snacking on them plain—so good and fun to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: The star of this dish! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too. Both varieties lend a light texture and mild flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and meltability. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work nicely.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the fritters together. If you need a gluten-free option, try using chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Egg: The egg helps hold everything together. You can replace it with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Fritters are Crispy?
The key to crispy fritters is removing excess moisture from the squash. Salt the grated squash and let it sit to draw out liquid. After that, squeeze it out well with a towel! This lets the fritters fry up beautifully without steaming.
- After squeezing, mix the dried squash with other ingredients quickly, and don’t overmix.
- Fry in hot oil—medium heat allows for a crispy exterior without burning.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to allow for even cooking.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy fritters every time!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking, so you can have deliciously crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters ready in about 30-35 minutes. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by placing the grated yellow squash in a colander. Sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, grab a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze the squash to remove as much liquid as you can. This step is crucial for achieving the crispy texture.
2. Mix the Batter:
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed squash with the grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if you’re using it), and a bit of black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and forms a batter.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough so that when you add batter, it sizzles right away. If you’re not sure, you can do a quick drop test with a small spoonful of batter to see if it bubbles up.
4. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter and carefully place them in the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form small patties. Fry each fritter for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; it’s better to fry in batches!
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy. Serve them warm, and feel free to sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top, add a bit of chopped parsley, or include a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Enjoy your crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ About Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini will work just as well in this recipe. It has a similar texture and flavor, making it a great substitute.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make the fritters gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend or chickpea flour. Both will provide good binding without sacrificing taste!
Can I Prepare the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance! Once mixed, store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before frying, as some moisture may settle.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to restore their crispiness.
