These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a yummy way to enjoy your veggies! They combine sweet yellow squash with cheesy, crunchy goodness for a snack that’s hard to resist.
I love how easy they are to whip up! Just mix, form patties, and fry until golden brown. Perfect for dipping or on their own—delicious any time of the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash gives these fritters their amazing flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works just as well. They’ll have a slightly different taste, but it’s still tasty!
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for that rich, nutty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even a mix of cheddar for a different twist on taste.
All-Purpose Flour: Traditional flour helps bind the fritters. However, for a gluten-free version, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just adjust the quantity as needed to maintain the batter’s consistency.
Herbs: Italian herbs add a nice touch to the flavor. If you don’t have them, you could use fresh parsley or chives. Or even omit it for a simpler taste!
How Do I Get My Fritters Extra Crispy?
To achieve perfect crispy fritters, moisture control is key. Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out as much liquid from the grated squash as possible. Less moisture leads to crispier fritters.
- After grating the squash, use a towel or cheesecloth for squeezing.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying. This helps keep the temperature up, which is crucial for achieving that golden-brown color.
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy dish. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your fritters in just under 30 minutes! Perfect for a snack or side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash. Once grated, place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as you can—this is the secret to getting those fritters nice and crispy!
2. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine your drained squash with salt, grated Parmesan cheese, flour, egg, minced garlic, black pepper, and optional Italian herbs. Stir everything together until well mixed. You should have a batter that holds together.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour in about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil and heat it on medium-high. You want the oil hot enough for frying, so give it a few minutes to warm up.
4. Form the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop a generous amount of the batter and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of the spoon to form small fritters. Make sure not to crowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
5. Fry Until Golden:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The aroma will be delightful!
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them sit for a minute to cool slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy yellow squash fritters warm! They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. Perfect for sharing or snacking!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Other Types of Squash for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute if you don’t have yellow squash on hand. It offers a similar texture and flavor, making it an excellent choice for these fritters.
How Can I Make These Fritters Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for a few minutes to thicken). You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Can I Bake These Fritters Instead of Frying?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush or spray with a little oil and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden brown.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to regain their crispiness!
