These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a great way to enjoy summer squash! With a crunchy outside and cheesy goodness inside, they’re sure to please everyone.
Honestly, they’re so tasty that I forget they’re good for me. I love serving them with a dip on the side. They disappear quickly, so you might want to double the batch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star of this recipe. You could also use zucchini if that’s what you have on hand. Both will give a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a deliciously salty and savory touch. If you’re looking for a substitution, Pecorino Romano can work well, or try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used for binding the fritters. If you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Both can deliver crispy results.
Eggs: Eggs help bind the mixture. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) as a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: I love adding fresh parsley for extra flavor, but you could substitute with green onions, chives, or even fresh basil for something different!
How Do You Properly Squeeze Moisture from the Squash?
Squeezing moisture from the squash is key to achieving crispy fritters. Here’s how to do it right!
- After grating the squash, sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. This draws out water.
- Once it’s rested, grab a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Place the grated squash in the center, gather the edges, and twist to wring out excess liquid. The drier the squash, the crispier the fritters will be!
Taking this extra step is worth it for that perfect crunch!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squashes, 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 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. Total time is around 35 minutes. You’ll spend a few minutes grating and mixing, frying the fritters to golden perfection, and they’re best served warm right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash with a box grater. Place the grated squash in a colander, sprinkle it with salt, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps to draw out excess moisture, making your fritters crispy.
2. Squeeze Out Liquid:
After the squash has rested for 10 minutes, take a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, place the grated squash inside, and twist it to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. The drier your squash, the crunchier your fritters will be!
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed squash, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, eggs, minced garlic, chopped parsley (if you’re using it), black pepper, and baking powder. Mix everything together well until you have a thick batter. It should be well combined!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat until shimmering. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small bit of batter into it—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the batter for each fritter and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Flatten each fritter slightly with a spatula. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a nice golden brown and become crispy.
6. Drain Oil:
Once the fritters are cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep them from getting soggy.
7. Serve Warm:
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy yellow squash fritters warm! They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or a snack!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great alternative and will yield a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture as you would with yellow squash!
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fritters in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Both will work well to bind the fritters while keeping them crispy and delicious.
What Other Herbs or Spices Can I Add?
You can personalize these fritters by adding various herbs or spices. Try adding cilantro, dill, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Just keep in mind to balance the flavors to your liking!
