Tired of the same old side dishes? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for crispy breaded yellow squash is your new go-to for quick weeknight dinners or impressive summer gatherings. It’s a delicious dish that's both satisfying and light, perfect for those who love the taste of summer but want a healthy option. Get ready to elevate your meal game with this simple yet stunning recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds extra tang!)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Cooking spray or vegetable oil
Instructions:
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Prep the Squash: Wash and slice the yellow squash into even rounds. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that extra crispy texture!
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Create the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In the second, pour the milk or buttermilk. In the third, mix together the panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).
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Bread the Squash: Dredge each squash round in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the milk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
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Cook the Squash: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly spray with cooking spray or add a thin layer of vegetable oil. Carefully place the breaded squash rounds in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cooked squash from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite protein and vegetables.
Tips for Extra Crispy Squash:
- Dry is Key: Thoroughly drying the squash slices is essential for achieving maximum crispiness. Don't skip this step!
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will steam the squash instead of crisping it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your squash slices and the heat of your stove. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor. Italian seasoning, oregano, or even a little cayenne pepper would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Squash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herby Squash: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Use a blend of different cheeses in the breadcrumb mixture, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving of breaded yellow squash is:
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Fat: Around 8-12g
- Protein: Around 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This easy breaded yellow squash recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy this often-underappreciated vegetable. It’s a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can result in delicious and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a delicious dish everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to experience the joy of crispy, flavorful, and healthy yellow squash!