These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty treat! They are made with fresh yellow squash, crispy breadcrumbs, and a sprinkle of cheesy goodness. Perfect for a snack or side dish!
I’ve got to say, the crunch is so satisfying. They’re a great way to sneak in some veggies, and honestly, who can resist anything with cheese? 😋 Plus, they are super simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: The star of the dish! Choose medium yellow squash for sweetness and moisture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well too and gives a similar flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a delicious salty and nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be used for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
All-Purpose Flour: Commonly used to bind the fritters. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or coconut flour as a substitute. They will still provide a nice texture!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are key for crunchiness. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but panko really does give that extra crispy texture that we love.
How Do You Make the Fritters Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy fritters lies in properly draining the squash. After grating, sprinkle it with salt and let it sit to pull out excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing sogginess, so make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. It makes a big difference!
- Use a clean towel or cheesecloth to press the squash after it has rested with salt.
- Fry in hot oil at medium heat. Too low and the fritters will absorb more oil; too high could burn them quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
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
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking the fritters. They cook up quickly, so you can have a delicious snack or side dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash and placing it in a colander. Sprinkle it with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture, which is key to crispy fritters!
2. Squeezing Out the Moisture:
After 10 minutes, take the grated squash and use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as you can. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we want.
3. Mixing the Fritter Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed squash with grated Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, minced garlic, black pepper, and oregano if you chose to add it. Mix everything together until well combined and smooth.
4. Adding Extra Crunch:
Now, gently fold in the panko breadcrumbs. This will give your fritters that extra crunch that makes them irresistible!
5. Heating the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. It should be hot enough that when you drop a small amount of batter in, it sizzles!
6. Forming and Frying the Fritters:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the squash mixture and shape it into a patty. Carefully place it in the hot oil, and flatten it slightly. Repeat this with the remaining mixture, frying in batches if necessary.
7. Cooking to Perfection:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
8. Draining Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
9. Serving Suggestions:
Serve the fritters warm, and consider pairing them with a side of sour cream, garlic aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every crispy bite!
Hope you love these crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is recommended for its sweetness, zucchini is a great alternative and will provide a similar texture and taste in your fritters.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these fritters gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure your panko breadcrumbs are also gluten-free!
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time! Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick stir before frying. Fried fritters can also be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat them in the oven for extra crispiness.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Leftovers?
Leftover fritters taste great the next day! Reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or add them to a salad for a tasty meal!
