These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a fun and tasty treat! Made with fresh squash, crunchy breadcrumbs, and zesty Parmesan, they’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
They’re so good, you might just want to eat them all in one sitting! I love serving them with a simple dip while watching my favorite show. It’s a delicious way to enjoy veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This recipe shines with fresh yellow squash. If unavailable, zucchini works just as well. They both offer a mild flavor and great texture.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using fresh grated Parmesan for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the cheese!
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the fritters together. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend can make a great substitute.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the fritters their fantastic crunch! You can replace regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand, but panko is my preference for extra crispiness.
Fresh Parsley: While optional, parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. Basil or cilantro could be a fun twist if you want to switch things up.
How Do I Get the Fritters Extra Crispy?
Great question! The key to crispy fritters lies in removing as much moisture as possible from the grated squash.
- After salting the squash, give it some time to sweat out moisture. Squeezing it in a towel is a must!
- Mixing the batter thoroughly helps incorporate all ingredients without making it too wet.
- For added crunch, lightly coat the formed fritters in extra panko before frying.
- Fry in hot oil, but not too high to burn them—medium heat is just right!
These tips will ensure that your fritters turn out deliciously crispy every time! Enjoy cooking!
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)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Estimated Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the batter. The frying will take around 15 minutes, depending on how many batches you make. In no time, you’ll have a delicious side dish or snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash into a large bowl. Sprinkle the grated squash with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture, making your fritters crispy.
2. Squeeze Out Excess Liquid:
After the squash has rested, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze the squash to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is important to ensure that the fritters don’t turn out soggy!
3. Mix the Batter:
In another large bowl, combine the drained squash, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if you’re using it), black pepper, baking powder, and panko breadcrumbs. Stir it all together until the mixture is well combined but not too wet. It should hold together nicely.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough for frying, but not smoking. It should sizzle gently when you add the fritters.
5. Shape and Fry the Fritters:
Using about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter, shape them into small patties. If you want extra crunch, you can lightly coat each fritter in extra panko breadcrumbs. Carefully place the fritters in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm and enjoy! They are great on their own or with a delicious dipping sauce like sour cream, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy yellow squash fritters! They make for a delightful snack or a side dish at your next meal!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini makes a great substitute and has a similar texture and flavor. Just follow the same steps outlined in the recipe for best results.
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just scoop and fry as directed. It’s perfect for meal prep!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or warm them in a skillet to regain that crispy texture.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Fritters?
These fritters are delicious on their own, but they pair great with dipping sauces! Consider serving them with sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy salsa for a flavorful kick!
