These summer squash fritters are a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of the season. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make a perfect appetizer or side dish. The combination of fresh summer squash and simple pantry staples creates a dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry items, but you might need to pick up fresh summer squash if you don't have it on hand. Summer squash is typically available in the produce section of your supermarket. Make sure to choose firm, unblemished squash for the best results.
Ingredients for Summer Squash Fritters Recipe
Summer squash: Fresh and grated, this is the star ingredient that provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture.
All-purpose flour: This helps bind the fritters together and gives them structure.
Eggs: They act as a binder, holding the ingredients together and adding richness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and ensures the fritters are well-seasoned.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the fritters.
Olive oil: Used for frying, it gives the fritters a crispy exterior and a subtle, fruity flavor.
Technique Tip for Making Fritters
When grating the summer squash, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This will help prevent the fritters from becoming too soggy and ensure they crisp up nicely when fried.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
summer squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and moisture content, making it an excellent substitute for summer squash in fritters.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier alternative.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the fritters.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist.
olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a high smoke point and adds a subtle sweetness, making it a good alternative for frying.
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How to Store / Freeze Your Fritters
Allow the summer squash fritters to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
Place the fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step ensures they freeze individually and don't stick together.
Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the fritters freeze for about 1-2 hours. This is known as flash freezing and helps maintain their shape and texture.
Once the fritters are frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the fritters in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat and cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and crispy.
For short-term storage, place the cooled fritters in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
To enjoy the fritters at their best, serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the summer squash fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.
For a quicker method, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the fritters directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, flipping once to ensure even reheating.
If you're in a rush, the microwave can be your friend. Place the fritters on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not keep them as crispy.
For a stovetop option, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the fritters in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and regain some of their original crispiness.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the fritters in a single layer in the basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method will help maintain their crispy texture.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Grater: Used to grate the summer squash into fine shreds, ensuring even texture in the fritters.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the grated squash, flour, eggs, salt, and pepper.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour and grated squash.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper precisely.
Spatula: Handy for mixing the ingredients together and flattening the fritters in the pan.
Frying pan: A medium-sized pan to cook the fritters until they are golden brown.
Stove: Provides the heat source for frying the fritters.
Paper towels: Used to drain excess oil from the cooked fritters, keeping them crispy.
Spoon: Useful for scooping the mixture into the frying pan.
How to Save Time on Making Fritters
Prepare ingredients in advance: Grate the summer squash and measure out the flour and spices the night before.
Use a food processor: Save time by using a food processor to grate the squash quickly.
Preheat the pan: While mixing the ingredients, start heating the olive oil in the pan to save time.
Batch cooking: Cook multiple fritters at once to reduce overall cooking time.
Drain efficiently: Use a wire rack instead of paper towels to drain the fritters faster and keep them crispy.
Summer Squash Fritters Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups grated summer squash
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for frying
Instructions
- 1. Grate the summer squash and place it in a mixing bowl.
- 2. Add the flour, eggs, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
- 3. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- 4. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan, flattening them slightly with a spatula.
- 5. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- 6. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Main Courses and Desserts
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