These Easy Cheesy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters are a fun and tasty way to enjoy veggies! They are crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, making them perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Just grate the squash, mix in some parmesan, and pan-fry them to golden perfection! I promise they won’t last long at my house, especially with those cheesy bites! 🧀😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Make sure to use fresh, medium-sized yellow squash. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works well as a substitute and offers a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy taste. For a milder taste, use Pecorino Romano instead.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps bind the fritters together. If you’re gluten-free, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend without sacrificing texture.
Onion: Adding onion gives extra flavor, but it’s totally optional. If you prefer a milder taste, consider green onions or scallions instead.
How Do I Get My Fritters to Be Crispy and Hold Together?
The secret to perfect fritters lies in draining the moisture from the grated squash. By squeezing out the excess water using a clean towel, you help your fritters crisp up nicely while ensuring they hold together during frying.
- Grate the squash and then place it in a towel; twist and squeeze until dry.
- Don’t skip the resting time after mixing the ingredients; this allows the flour to absorb moisture.
- When frying, avoid crowding the pan. Give them enough space to cook evenly.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with deliciously crispy fritters every time!
How to Make Easy Cheesy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 3 medium yellow squash
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For Serving:
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. You’ll mix up the ingredients, fry the fritters until golden, and enjoy a delicious treat in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by washing the yellow squash to remove any dirt. Trim off both ends, then grate the squash using a box grater or food processor until it’s all finely shredded.
2. Drain the Squash:
Next, you’ll want to get rid of excess moisture. Place the grated squash into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist to squeeze out as much water as possible. This helps your fritters stay crispy and hold together nicely!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash, grated Parmesan, flour, egg, optional chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together until everything is well-mixed and fully incorporated.
4. Heat the Oil:
Now it’s time to get cooking! In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking. This will ensure a nice crispy fritter.
5. Form the Fritters:
Using about 1/4 cup of the mixture for each fritter, scoop it into the hot skillet. Gently press down on each scoop to flatten it slightly. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet—fry in batches if necessary to give each fritter room to cook evenly.
6. Cook Until Crispy:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they are golden brown. Carefully flip them over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. You want them crispy on both sides!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to help absorb any extra oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, golden yellow squash fritters!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great alternative. It offers a similar texture and flavor, so feel free to swap it in without any issues.
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
To make these fritters gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just be mindful of the amount, as different flours absorb moisture differently!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to re-crisp them, rather than microwaving to avoid sogginess.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the fritter mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to fry. Just give it a stir before cooking, as it may settle a bit.
