These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty way to enjoy fresh summer squash! Each bite is crunchy on the outside and soft inside, loaded with cheesy goodness.
I love making these for a snack or a side dish. They disappear quickly, so you might want to make a double batch! Just a heads up: your kitchen will smell amazing. 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is perfect for this recipe, adding a mild flavor and great texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works just as well and gives a similar outcome!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a wonderful, nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for binding the fritters. If you need a gluten-free version, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for similar results.
Eggs: Eggs help hold everything together. For a vegan option, you can use a flax or chia seed egg; just mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.
How Can I Make Sure My Fritters Are Crispy?
A common concern when frying fritters is achieving that perfect crispiness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Squeeze out excess moisture: After salting the grated squash, be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible. Moisture will make your fritters soggy.
- Use hot oil: Ensure your oil is hot before adding the fritters. You can test it by dropping a tiny bit of batter in; it should sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil’s temperature, resulting in less crispy fritters.
- Drain well: Let the fritters rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crisp for longer.
With these tips, your crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters will be a hit every time!
Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
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 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to cook the fritters. Total time is around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash with a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated squash in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, which is key for crispy fritters!
2. Squeeze Out the Moisture:
Once the ten minutes are up, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wrap the grated squash inside. Squeeze it tightly to remove as much moisture as you can. This step is essential for that crispy texture!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, eggs, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and chopped parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a tiny spoonful of the batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop about 2 tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil for each fritter. Gently flatten them a bit with the back of the spoon to form patties. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once the fritters are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy! Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your delicious 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 provides a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to follow the same steps to remove excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
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 to get them crispy again.
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version while maintaining a similar texture and flavor.
What Can I Serve with These Fritters?
These fritters pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Consider serving them with garlic aioli, tzatziki, or a spicy dipping sauce for a tasty accompaniment.
