Mom’s Squash Patties are a family favorite that’s as tasty as it is easy to make! In this recipe, I’ll show you how to turn simple zucchini or yellow squash into delightful patties that everyone will love. With just a few basic ingredients and our step-by-step guide, you’ll have a dish that brings smiles to the table. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups grated zucchini or yellow squash
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Cooking Supplies
– Skillet
– Cooking oil
– Mixing bowl
– Kitchen towel
Mom’s squash patties use simple ingredients. The main ones are zucchini or yellow squash. You need seasoned breadcrumbs to add flavor. Parmesan cheese gives a nice touch.
Onions and garlic boost the taste. Eggs help bind everything together. Spices like oregano, salt, and pepper add extra flavor. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness to the mix.
For cooking, you will need a skillet and some oil. A mixing bowl helps combine all ingredients. A kitchen towel is handy for squeezing out squash moisture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Squash
Start by grating the zucchini or yellow squash. I use a box grater for this. Then, take the grated squash and put it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze it hard to drain as much moisture as you can. This step is key. If there is too much moisture, the patties will be soggy. We want them crispy and delicious.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained squash with the other ingredients. Add breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If you like, toss in some chopped parsley too. Mix everything well using your hands or a spoon. The mixture should feel a bit sticky and hold together well. This texture helps the patties stay intact while cooking.
Cooking the Patties
Next, heat a large skillet on medium heat. Pour in enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Wait until the oil shimmers, but don’t let it smoke. This shows it’s hot enough for frying. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the squash mix and shape it into a patty. Gently place it in the hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Leave space between each patty for even cooking.
Cook the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. They should turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the heat. Adjust it as needed to prevent burning. You might need to fry in batches, depending on your skillet size. Once cooked, take them out and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will soak up any extra oil and keep the patties crispy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have lovely, golden squash patties ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, you want your patties crispy, not soggy. Start by squeezing out moisture from the grated squash. Use a clean kitchen towel for this. If you skip this step, your patties may fall apart or become mushy. Keep the right ratio of ingredients. Too much squash can lead to sogginess. Aim for two cups of squash to one cup of breadcrumbs. This balance helps create a sturdy patty.
Adjusting Cooking Time
Cooking time is key. Heat your skillet to medium. This temperature helps the patties cook evenly. If the heat is too low, they won’t crisp up. If it’s too high, they may burn. Fry each side for 4-5 minutes. Check for a golden brown color. Don’t rush this process. Undercooked patties can be mushy, while overcooked ones can taste dry.
Serving Suggestions
For serving, add tasty condiments. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream works great. Fresh herbs like parsley add color and flavor. You can also pair these patties with a salad or roasted veggies. They make a lovely side for grilled meats too. Explore different sauces like tzatziki or spicy ketchup for extra flavor. Enjoy making these patties your own!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the squash for variety. Try using butternut squash or pattypan squash. Each type gives a unique taste and texture. You can also add more veggies. Grated carrots or bell peppers mix well. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, add a fresh kick.
Cooking Methods
You can bake these patties instead of frying them. Just place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method makes them a bit healthier. An air fryer is another option. It cooks them fast and gives a nice crisp without much oil. Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for about 12-15 minutes.
Flavor Boosts
Adding cheese can elevate the flavor. Try feta, cheddar, or even goat cheese. Each brings a different taste. You can also play with spices. Add a pinch of cumin for warmth or smoked paprika for depth. Experimenting with flavors can lead to your perfect batch of patties.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers, let the patties cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This helps to keep them fresh. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. To extend freshness, reheat only what you will eat. This avoids sogginess in the remaining patties.
Freezing Guidelines
For freezing, make sure the patties are fully cooled. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer until they are solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. This method helps prevent them from sticking together. When ready to eat, reheat frozen patties in the oven. Bake them at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until hot.
Shelf Life
The expected freshness duration is about three days in the fridge. Frozen patties can last up to three months. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or a change in color. If you notice any of these, it’s best to discard them.
FAQs
How long do I need to fry the patties?
Fry the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. This cooking time gives them a nice golden color and crispy texture. Make sure to keep an eye on them. If the heat is too high, they may burn. Adjust the heat as needed for even cooking.
Can I make these patties gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these patties gluten-free. Instead of breadcrumbs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You can also use ground oats as a substitute. Just check the labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.
What can I serve with Mom’s Squash Patties?
These patties pair well with many side dishes and sauces.Enjoy!
This blog post covered how to make delicious squash patties. We looked at key ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips. I shared ways to adjust the recipe and storage methods for leftovers. Making these patties can be fun and simple. You can explore new flavors and textures that suit your taste. Enjoy these tips, and I hope you create something tasty. Experimenting in the kitchen leads to great meals!
