These crispy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are a treat that everyone will love! With crunchy edges and cheesy goodness, they’re perfect as a snack or side dish.
Making them is so easy! I just grate the squash, mix in some cheese, and fry them up. They disappear quickly at my house—who can resist that crunch? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here, giving a lovely texture. If you can’t find it, you can use zucchini as a substitute, which works well too!
Parmesan Cheese: I love the flavor of grated Parmesan in these fritters. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste or use vegan cheese products.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind the fritters together. For a gluten-free version, you can swap in almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Egg: The egg adds richness and binds everything. If you’re vegan, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a great substitute!
How Can I Get My Fritters Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about moisture control and frying technique. First, make sure to squeeze out as much liquid from the grated squash as you can. The less moisture, the better the crunch!
- Use high enough heat while frying (medium heat works well) so the fritters quickly crisp up without absorbing too much oil.
- Cook them in batches; overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and result in soggy fritters.
- Let them drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil, making them even crispier.
Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash (about 2 cups grated)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Time Needed:
You will need about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes to have these delicious fritters ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by washing the yellow squash thoroughly. Then, using a box grater or food processor, grate the squash. Once you have the grated squash, place it into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze it well to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This step is important to ensure your fritters are crispy!
2. Mix the Fritter Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the drained grated squash, grated Parmesan cheese, all-purpose flour, the egg, minced garlic, parsley (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until everything is well incorporated and forms a cohesive mixture.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet but not so much that the fritters are deep-fried.
4. Form and Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the squash mixture and gently flatten them into small patties. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (you can fry in batches). Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Flip them with a spatula for even cooking.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This ensures they stay crispy! Serve the fritters warm as a delightful side dish or a tasty snack on their own. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Yes, zucchini is a great substitute! It has a similar texture and will work just as well in this recipe. Just remember to squeeze out any excess moisture, just like you would with yellow squash.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make these fritters gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. This will help bind the ingredients while keeping them delicious!
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the squash mixture up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to fry them, give the mixture a quick stir to combine everything again.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat to regain their crispiness, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
