These cheesy Parmesan yellow squash fritters are tasty little bites that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. With fresh squash and a sprinkle of cheese, they’re a hit!
They’re super easy to whip up—just mix, fry, and enjoy! Perfect as a snack or side dish, I can’t resist sneaking a few while they’re still hot! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the fritters! I prefer medium yellow squash for a good balance. If you can’t find them, zucchini works just as well.
Cheeses: Parmesan adds a sharp flavor, while cheddar provides creaminess. If you want to mix it up, try mozzarella for a milder taste or goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Flour: All-purpose flour is typical, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a heartier version. For gluten-free, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Eggs: They help bind the ingredients. You can replace them with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings great flavor, but if you’re short on fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch (1/2 teaspoon).
How Do I Ensure My Fritters Are Crispy?
For crispy fritters, moisture control is key. After grating the squash and salting it, let it sit and then squeeze out excess water. This helps create that delightful crunch!
- Use a clean towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Fry in hot oil but don’t overcrowd the pan since it lowers the temperature.
- Let them cook until golden brown before flipping for the best texture.
Cheesy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil) for frying
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook the fritters. You’ll spend a bit of time grating the squash and mixing the ingredients, but the cooking time is quick! In just under an hour, you’ll have delicious fritters ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by grating the yellow squash using a coarse grater. After you’ve grated it, place the squash in a colander, sprinkle it with salt, and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture and improve the texture of your fritters.
2. Squeeze Out Extra Moisture:
After the squash has rested, grab a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much water as you can from the grated squash. This step is critical for making sure your fritters turn out crispy!
3. Mix the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained squash with flour, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, beaten eggs, minced garlic, black pepper, baking powder, and chopped parsley. Stir well until everything is nicely mixed and you have a consistent batter.
4. Heat the Oil:
Put a large skillet on medium heat and add enough cooking oil to coat the bottom. Allow the oil to heat up, but be careful not to let it smoke.
5. Form and Cook the Fritters:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out a portion of the batter and form small patties. Gently place them into the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as that will lower the temperature.
6. Fry to Perfection:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You might need to adjust the heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
7. Drain the Fritters:
Once cooked, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the fritters warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and garnish with extra chopped parsley. Enjoy these delightful bites as a snack or side dish!
Enjoy your Cheesy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters—they’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Cheesy Parmesan Yellow Squash Fritters
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While yellow squash is wonderful for this recipe, you can also use zucchini or a mix of both for a tasty variation. Just be sure to follow the same steps to remove excess moisture!
How Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these fritters gluten-free by swapping out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just check the texture to ensure it holds together well.
Can I Make Fritters Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to fry them fresh for the crispiest texture. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated in an oven or skillet!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil or in the oven until warmed through for that fresh-out-of-the-pan crispiness.