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Crispy Fried Zucchini and Squash Fritters Easy Recipe with Spicy Cheddar Dip

crispy fried zucchini and squash fritters - featured image
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Golden, crunchy zucchini and squash fritters served with a creamy, spicy cheddar dip. A quick and easy snack or side dish perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini, grated (about 2 cups)
  • 2 medium yellow squash, grated (about 2 cups)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or avocado oil recommended)
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Grate the zucchini and yellow squash using a box grater or food processor. Place grated veggies in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, and toss. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  2. Squeeze out excess water from the grated squash using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent soggy fritters.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini and squash with flour, baking powder, Parmesan cheese, garlic, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
  4. Beat the eggs lightly and stir into the vegetable mixture until the batter holds together but is not dry. Add more flour if too wet.
  5. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of batter sizzles immediately.
  6. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter per fritter into the hot oil, flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  7. Remove fritters with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Keep warm in a low oven if needed.
  8. Prepare the spicy cheddar dip by mixing shredded cheddar, sour cream, mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
  9. Serve fritters hot with the spicy cheddar dip on the side.

Notes

Squeeze out excess moisture from grated vegetables to prevent soggy fritters. Maintain medium-high heat for frying to avoid greasy or burnt fritters. Use cast iron skillet for best crispy crust. Fry in batches to keep oil temperature consistent. Keep fritters warm in a 200°F oven if needed. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or gluten-free flour. Vegan options include flax eggs and dairy-free substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini fritters, squash fritters, fried fritters, spicy cheddar dip, easy appetizer, gluten-free option, vegetarian

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/crispy-fried-zucchini-and-squash-fritters-easy-recipe-with-spicy-cheddar-dip/