Crispy & Golden Yellow Squash Tots

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready for a seriously delicious and surprisingly healthy recipe that’s going to become your new obsession? Then get ready for these crispy, golden yellow squash tots! I’m talking perfectly seasoned, wonderfully textured little bites of sunshine that are surprisingly easy to whip up. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor we pack into these veggie-packed delights.

What sets these yellow squash tots apart? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The outside gets beautifully crispy and golden brown, thanks to a clever breading technique I’ll share with you. Meanwhile, the inside remains delightfully tender and moist, showcasing the natural sweetness of the yellow squash. It’s a truly satisfying experience, and the best part? They’re incredibly quick to make. No hours spent in the kitchen here, friends! You can have these on your table in under an hour, making them ideal for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.

Imagine the vibrant yellow color, the irresistible crunch, and the savory, herbaceous aroma filling your kitchen. These tots are not just a meal; they’re a mood. They evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and joyful togetherness. Whether you’re enjoying them solo as a healthy snack, serving them alongside your favorite dipping sauce, or adding them to a larger meal, these yellow squash tots are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

Trust me; your taste buds will thank you! Let’s get started on this culinary adventure.

What You’ll Need

This recipe is surprisingly simple, using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather our ingredients:

• Yellow Squash (2 medium): The star of the show! Choose firm, vibrant yellow squash for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Provides the base for our crispy coating.
• Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
• Egg (1 large): Binds the flour and breadcrumbs to the squash.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Onion Powder (1 tsp): Enhances the savory notes.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a touch of sweetness and beautiful color.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
• Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): A touch of spice for balance.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For frying our tots to golden perfection.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of freshness for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Let’s make some magic!

1. Prep the Squash: Wash and grate the yellow squash. Use a box grater or a food processor for speed. Place the grated squash in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for crispy tots!
2. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second, whisk the egg. In the third, place the breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Squash: Dredge the squeezed yellow squash in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry the Tots: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (a drop of breadcrumb should sizzle immediately), carefully add the squash tots in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked tots from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. They’re delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tip: For extra crispy tots, you can even bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just make sure to lightly coat them with oil before baking.

Tips for Success

To achieve perfectly crispy yellow squash tots every time, here are a few essential tips:

Squeeze out the moisture: Seriously, this is the most important step! The more moisture you remove from the grated squash, the crispier your tots will be. Don’t skip this step!

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy tots. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or some dried oregano for an Italian twist, would be fantastic!

Use a good quality olive oil: The oil you use will impact the flavor of your tots. A high-quality olive oil will result in a richer and more flavorful final product.

Variations to Try

Let’s explore some exciting variations to elevate your yellow squash tots experience:

Spicy Tots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

Herby Tots: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like dill, chives, or thyme into the flour mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Cheesy Tots: Mix grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.

Gluten-Free Tots: Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover yellow squash tots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use zucchini instead of yellow squash? A: Yes! Zucchini will work well as a substitute, but keep in mind that it might have a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: How long do the tots keep in the freezer? A: Frozen yellow squash tots will keep for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to label and date the bag for easy tracking.

Q: Can I air fry these tots? A: Absolutely! Air frying is a great way to achieve crispy tots with less oil. Follow the same breading process, then air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: What kind of dipping sauce goes well with these tots? A: Ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a simple marinara sauce are all delicious options.

The Final Word

These crispy and golden yellow squash tots are a true testament to the fact that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious! Their vibrant color, satisfying crunch, and adaptable nature make them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a fun appetizer, or even a healthy snack. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of these delightful little bites for yourself.

Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how you enjoyed them! And if you snap a photo and share it on social media, be sure to tag me! Happy cooking!

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