These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a tasty way to enjoy summer squash! They are easy to make and are perfect as a snack or side dish.
I love how golden and crunchy they turn out, with cheesy goodness in every bite. Plus, they disappear fast at my house—everyone wants seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for this recipe. If you can’t find it, zucchini works too and has a similar texture. Just make sure to squeeze out the moisture!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives these fritters a rich, cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a substitute, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use a non-dairy cheese for a vegan option.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for binding, but you could use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour if you need to avoid gluten.
Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients together. If you’re vegan or allergic, consider using a flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer.
How Do You Get Crispy Fritters?
Getting the right crispiness in fritters is all about reducing moisture and frying them correctly. Here’s how to do it:
- After grating the squash, salting it and letting it sit is crucial to draw out water. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible afterwards.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough; test by dropping a small amount of batter in the oil. If it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to ensure each fritter gets proper contact with the oil, making them crispy all around.
- Drain them on paper towels right after frying to remove excess oil, keeping them crispy!
These tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy and delicious fritters every time!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 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 for frying. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to make these delicious fritters!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash and place it in a colander. Sprinkle the grated squash with salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture, which is key to achieving crispy fritters.
2. Remove Excess Liquid:
After the squash has sat, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. The drier the squash, the crispier your fritters will be.
3. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained squash with the grated Parmesan cheese, flour, beaten egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix everything well until you have a cohesive batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter in the oil. If it sizzles, you’re good to go!
5. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Flatten each spoonful slightly with the back of the spoon to form fritters. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; fry them in batches if necessary.
6. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
7. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps to keep them crispy.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. They make for a delightful appetizer or side dish that you and your guests will love!
Enjoy your crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Zucchini is a great substitute and will yield similar results. Just make sure to squeeze out the moisture as you would with yellow squash to keep those fritters crispy!
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 hot skillet for a few minutes on each side or pop them in the toaster oven to crisp them up again.
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Alternatively, almond flour works well as a gluten-free option, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture.
What Can I Serve with Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters?
These fritters are fantastic on their own, but you can serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch, sour cream, or a tangy yogurt sauce. They also pair well with a fresh salad or as a side dish alongside grilled meats.
