Squash patties, also known as squash fritters, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side, appetizer, or even a light main course. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with the fresh flavors of summer. Whether you’re using zucchini, butternut, or yellow crookneck squash, these squash patties are a fantastic way to make the most of the season’s produce. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these savory, cheesy patties that are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these squash patties in no time.
- Versatile: You can use different types of squash, and the recipe is easily adaptable to be vegetarian or gluten-free.
- Delicious and Crispy: These squash patties are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded zucchini (or any summer squash of your choice)
1 cup grated butternut squash (you can also use acorn or another type of squash)
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (you can substitute with parmesan for a different flavor)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed)
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (or any herb of your choice like dill or Italian seasoning)
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying, can also use canola or vegetable oil)
For Serving:
Fresh herbs (like dill or basil, for garnish)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a creamy topping)
Hot sauce or chili sauce (for those who like it spicy)
Instructions
Prepare the Squash
- Grate the Squash: Start by shredding the zucchini and grating the butternut squash. You can use a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment for this step. Place the shredded squash in a large bowl.
- Remove Excess Moisture: Squash contains a lot of water, which can make your patties soggy if not removed. To avoid this, sprinkle a dash of salt over the shredded squash and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Then, place the squash in a colander or a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Mix the Ingredients
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder. This will ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Mix the Squash and Onions: Add the finely chopped onion, grated butternut squash, and shredded zucchini to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Add the Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the shredded cheddar, grated parmesan (if using), and chopped basil. This will add a rich, savory flavor to the squash patties.
- Add the Eggs: Pour the beaten eggs into the mixture and stir until everything is thoroughly combined. The mixture should be moist but not too wet. If it’s too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk.
- Fold in the Panko: Finally, fold in the panko breadcrumbs. This will help bind the mixture and give the squash patties a nice crunch when fried.
Cook the Patties
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles when it hits the pan.
- Form the Patties: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out about 1/4 cup of the mixture and form it into a patty. Flatten it slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Fry the Patties: Place the patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Drain the Patties: Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve Hot: Serve the squash patties hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. If you like a bit of spice, drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a side of chili sauce.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or dill, to enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy: These squash patties are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but they also reheat well. You can serve them as a side dish, an appetizer, or even as the main course with a side salad.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Squash Patties
1.Drain the Squash Well: The key to crispy squash patties is to remove as much moisture from the squash as possible. Don’t skip the step of salting and draining the squash.
2.Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the squash patties tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3.Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before forming the patties and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more garlic, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Variations
1.Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, and make sure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free.
2.Cheese Swap: Try using a different type of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile.
3.Add Veggies: You can add other vegetables like shredded carrots, sweet potatoes, or even corn to the mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
4.Spicy Kick: If you like it hot, add some finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Nutritional Information
These squash patties are not only delicious but also a relatively healthy option. They are packed with vegetables, and you can control the amount of oil used in frying to keep them light. If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, you can also bake the patties in the oven.
Per Serving (approximate)
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 6-8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
Serving Suggestions
Squash patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a juicy steak.
- As an Appetizer: Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch, aioli, or a spicy yogurt sauce.
- As a Main Course: Pair with a simple salad or a bowl of soup for a light and satisfying meal.
- Topped with Eggs: For a hearty breakfast or brunch, top the patties with a poached or fried egg.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store
- In the Fridge: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: You can freeze the patties after frying. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- In the Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- In the Skillet: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.
- In the Microwave: Microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes. However, this method may make the patties less crispy.
Conclusion
These crispy and flavorful squash patties are a must-try recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a side, an appetizer, or the star of your meal, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. With their crispy edges, cheesy goodness, and the fresh taste of summer squash, these patties are a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of the season.
