Fried squash is a delicious way to enjoy this underrated vegetable, offering a crispy outside and tender inside that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish or a crunchy snack, learning how to make fried squash is easier than you think-and it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Why Fried Squash Is a Must-Try
Yellow squash is mild and savory, making it perfect for frying. When coated with a flavorful breading and fried to golden perfection, it transforms into a crunchy, satisfying treat. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your meals without sacrificing taste or texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 3-4 large yellow squash, sliced into ¼ inch rounds
– ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
– 2 eggs
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ tablespoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (optional for a kick)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying (canola or other neutral oil)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Squash
1. Prepare Your Squash
Rinse the squash under cold water and pat dry. Slice them evenly into ¼ inch thick rounds to ensure they cook uniformly.
2. Make the Wet Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce if you want a little heat. This mixture helps the breading stick to the squash.
3. Prepare the Breading
In another bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, Italian seasoning, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Coat the Squash
Dip each squash slice first into the buttermilk and egg mixture, then dredge it thoroughly in the dry breading mix. Shake off any excess coating and place the slices on a baking sheet. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes; this helps the coating adhere better.
5. Fry to Perfection
Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the squash slices in a single layer. Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve
Remove the fried squash with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
Tips for Perfect Fried Squash
– Use even slices for consistent cooking.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady.
– Let the breaded squash rest before frying to help the coating stick.
– Experiment with seasonings to suit your taste-smoked paprika or cayenne can add a nice twist.
– Use a cast iron skillet if you have one; it retains heat well for even frying.
Variations to Try
– Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
– Buttermilk Substitute: Regular milk or a milk and vinegar mix works if you don’t have buttermilk.
– Cheesy Twist: Add grated Parmesan to the breading mix for extra flavor.
– Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the wet mixture for a spicy kick.
Fried squash is a simple, satisfying dish that brings out the best in summer squash. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a crunchy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Give it a try-you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy veggies!