Squash Croquettes

Squash Croquettes are a delicious and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. These crispy, golden bites are perfect as a side dish or appetizer. With their light texture and savory flavors, they appeal to all ages, making them an ideal addition to family gatherings or casual get-togethers. Plus, they’re straightforward to make and packed with nutrients from the squash.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up these croquettes in no time.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices and Parmesan cheese ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course—perfect for any occasion!
• Health-Conscious Choice: Made with fresh ingredients, these croquettes are a nutritious option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
• Kid-Friendly: The crunchy exterior and soft interior make them appealing to children, helping to sneak in some veggies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Nonstick skillet
• Grater or food processor
• Paper towels
• Spoon or medium ice cream scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Ensures that your croquettes cook evenly without sticking, making flipping easy.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining all ingredients without mess.
• Grater or food processor: Saves time when shredding squash and helps achieve the desired texture quickly.

Ingredients

For the Croquettes

• 4 cup shredded yellow squash
• 1 medium sweet onion (finely diced)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 Tbsp chopped chives or parsley
• 1 tsp seasoned salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• dash of cayenne

For Cooking

• 4 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 Tbsp salted butter
• 2/3 cup panko bread crumbs

How to Make Squash Croquettes

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

Blot the shredded squash with paper towels to remove excess moisture. You will need around 4–5 medium squash for this recipe. Alternatively, you can squeeze the squash in a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the shredded squash, diced onion, and beaten eggs until well combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

To the bowl, add self-rising flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped chives or parsley, seasoned salt, garlic powder, cumin, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir until everything is mixed well.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and heat up before adding the croquettes.

Step 5: Form the Croquettes

Using a tablespoon or medium ice cream scoop, take portions of the mixture and sprinkle with panko bread crumbs. Drop each portion into the skillet side down. Before turning them over, sprinkle the top side with more panko bread crumbs. Aim to form patties that are approximately 1½ inches thick.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden Brown

Fry the squash croquettes in batches for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Repeat this process with the remaining mixture.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

If necessary between batches, add more oil and butter to keep things cooking smoothly. Place fried squash croquettes on paper towels to drain any excess oil. If needed, keep warm in a preheated oven at 200°F on a rimmed baking sheet until serving.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your freshly made Squash Croquettes while they are still warm!

How to Serve Squash Croquettes

Squash croquettes are a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. They pair well with various sides and sauces, making them enjoyable for any occasion.

With Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli – This creamy sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the croquettes perfectly.
• Spicy Mayo – A kick of heat from sriracha mixed with mayonnaise creates a zesty dip.
• Herb Yogurt Sauce – A refreshing blend of yogurt and herbs provides a cool contrast to the warm croquettes.

As Part of a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – Serve the croquettes atop a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh touch.
• Quinoa Salad – Pairing with quinoa salad adds protein and texture, enhancing the overall meal experience.

In a Sandwich

• Croquette Sliders – Place squash croquettes on slider buns with lettuce and tomato for a delightful handheld option.
• Wraps – Wrap the croquettes in tortillas with fresh veggies and sauces for an easy-to-eat meal.

How to Perfect Squash Croquettes

Perfecting squash croquettes is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Bold Choice of Squash – Use fresh, firm yellow squash for optimal flavor and texture.
• Dry Thoroughly – Ensure shredded squash is thoroughly dried to avoid soggy croquettes during frying.
• Chill the Mixture – Refrigerating the mixture for 30 minutes before frying helps the patties hold their shape.
• Use Panko Bread Crumbs – These provide extra crunch compared to regular bread crumbs, enhancing the texture.
• Fry in Batches – Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Adjust Oil Temperature – Maintain medium-high heat for perfect frying; too hot can burn, while too low can lead to greasiness.

Best Side Dishes for Squash Croquettes

Pairing your squash croquettes with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create comfort food perfection alongside crispy croquettes.
2. Steamed Broccoli – A simple yet nutritious side; bright green broccoli adds color and balance to your plate.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs nicely with squash flavors, offering freshness and crunch.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft croquettes.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring depth and variety to your meal while complementing the dish’s flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad offers a refreshing palate cleanser that works well with rich squash flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making squash croquettes, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping moisture removal: Failing to blot the shredded squash can lead to soggy croquettes. Always remove excess moisture to ensure a crispy texture.

• Incorrect frying temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature can cause the croquettes to absorb excessive oil. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying.

• Not using self-rising flour: Substituting all-purpose flour without adding leavening agents can result in dense croquettes. Stick with self-rising flour for the best fluffiness.

• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many croquettes at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for consistent results.

• Neglecting seasoning: Underseasoned mix can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings before frying.

• Skipping panko coating: Not coating with panko bread crumbs will yield less crispy croquettes. Ensure each patty is well-coated before frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Squash Croquettes

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating Squash Croquettes

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that they may lose crispiness.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about squash croquettes that you might find helpful.

What are Squash Croquettes?

Squash croquettes are delightful fried patties made from shredded squash mixed with seasonings and bread crumbs, perfect as a side dish or snack.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! You can experiment with zucchini or butternut squash for different flavors and textures in your squash croquettes.

How do I make Squash Croquettes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free squash croquettes, substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your panko is also gluten-free.

Can I bake Squash Croquettes instead of frying?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, bake them on a lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Final Thoughts

Squash croquettes are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Try out this recipe today and enjoy these tasty bites!