These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty way to enjoy summer squash! They’re golden, crunchy, and full of cheesy goodness that makes everyone smile.
I love making these as a quick snack or a side dish for dinner. Pair them with a dipping sauce, and you’ll find it hard to stop at just one! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the fritters! Look for firm, fresh squash. If you don’t have yellow squash, zucchini works just as well. You’ll get a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese brings out the best flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a stronger taste, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed!
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the fritters together. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may differ a little.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, try other herbs like chives or cilantro for a twist.
How Can I Ensure My Fritters Are Crispy?
The secret to crispy fritters lies in removing excess moisture from the squash. After grating, sprinkling with salt allows the squash to release water. Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a kitchen towel—this step is key!
- Always let the grated squash sit with salt for about 10 minutes.
- Squeeze firmly to remove moisture before mixing with other ingredients.
- Fry in hot oil; it should bubble around the fritter to get that crispy texture.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash (about 1 1/2 pounds), 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 baking powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by washing and trimming the ends of the yellow squash. Then, using a box grater or a food processor, grate the squash until finely shredded. Set it aside for the next steps!
2. Draw Out the Moisture:
Place the grated squash in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess moisture, which is essential for getting crispy fritters later on!
3. Squeeze and Combine:
After the squash has rested, take a clean kitchen towel or some cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much liquid from the squash as you can. This step is crucial. Then, in a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed squash with Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and fresh parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything together until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil—it should sizzle!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet. Flatten each fritter gently with the back of the spoon to make them around 2-3 inches in diameter. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
After frying, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat this until all the batter is cooked. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch, or garlic aioli. Enjoy your delicious crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini makes an excellent substitute for yellow squash in this recipe. The texture and flavor are quite similar, so feel free to swap them out!
How Can I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get them crispy again without making them soggy.
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just note that the texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still taste delicious!
What Dipping Sauce Pairs Well with These Fritters?
These fritters are fantastic with a variety of dipping sauces! Try serving them with ranch, sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
