These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are tasty little bites that are perfect for snacking! With a crunchy outside and soft inside, they’re made with fresh squash and cheesy goodness.
They’re so easy to make, and I love serving them with a dip on the side. Plus, they’re a sneaky way to get in some veggies without anyone noticing! Who can resist that cheesy crunch? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the fritters! You can use zucchini if yellow squash isn’t available. Both provide similar flavors and textures.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese substitute instead.
All-Purpose Flour: For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free flour. Almond flour can also give a unique flavor and texture, but you might need to adjust the liquid a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove of fresh garlic.
How Can You Make These Fritters Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, moisture control is key! After grating your yellow squash, salting it allows the excess water to drain away.
- After 10 minutes, really squeeze out as much liquid as possible, using your hands or a clean towel.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A good test is to drop in a small piece of batter; it should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to maintain even heat and crispiness.
Follow these tips, and your fritters will turn out irresistibly crispy 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 all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus around 20 minutes for frying. Overall, you’ll spend about 35 minutes making these delightful fritters. They’re quick to whip up and perfect for a delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grate and Drain the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash using a coarse grater. Place the grated squash in a colander and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture, which is key to keeping your fritters crispy!
2. Squeeze Out Excess Moisture:
After the squash has sat, it’s time to get rid of the extra liquid. Using your hands or a clean kitchen towel, press down on the squash to squeeze out as much moisture as you can. The drier the squash, the crispier your fritters will be!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and fresh parsley (if using). Mix everything well until it’s all combined and holds together.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium heat until it’s shimmering—this indicates it’s hot enough for frying!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the batter into the hot oil. Gently flatten them with the back of the spoon to form small patties. Make sure not to crowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
6. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crunchy!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters warm, with a side of sour cream, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy cooking! 🥳
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is recommended, zucchini works great too. Both varieties offer similar textures and flavors, making them suitable substitutes in this recipe.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free fritters, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if necessary, as almond flour can absorb moisture differently.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just give it a good stir before frying, as some moisture may settle at the bottom.
How Should 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 or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their crispiness.
