Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This recipe for crispy fried squash is the perfect addition to any meal. Forget bland, boring sides – this recipe delivers unbelievably crispy squash with a hint of sweetness and savory spice. It's surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and it's a fantastic way to use up seasonal squash. This is one of those easy recipes that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds extra tang and crispness!)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
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Prepare the Squash: Wash and slice the squash and zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving extra crispy fried squash. Excess moisture will lead to soggy results.
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Make the Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. In a separate shallow dish, pour the milk or buttermilk. In a third shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.
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Bread the Squash: Dip each squash round into the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the milk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat each round thoroughly in breadcrumbs.
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Fry the Squash: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a pinch of flour should sizzle immediately), carefully place the breaded squash rounds in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd it. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain and Serve: Remove the fried squash from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy.
Tips for Extra Crispy Fried Squash:
- Dry is Key: Thoroughly drying the squash is the most important step for achieving optimal crispiness.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy squash. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the oil temperature. If it gets too low, the squash will absorb more oil and become greasy.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs will create an extra-crispy coating.
Variations:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, thyme, or oregano into the flour mixture for extra flavor.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the breadcrumbs for a cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the squash and the amount of oil used. However, fried squash generally provides a good source of vitamins and fiber. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutritional calculator with the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe. This dish is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and best recipes without compromising on taste. Enjoy your crispy fried squash!