Crispy Fried Squash Blossoms: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
Squash blossoms, those delicate and flavorful flowers that adorn the tops of summer squash, are often overlooked as a cooking ingredient. But with their sweet, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture, they’re begging to be used in creative recipes. And what better way to bring out their natural charm than by frying them to a crispy perfection? In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious ways to stuff and batter squash blossoms for a crunchy treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
From classic ricotta and herb fillings to more adventurous beer-battered or tempura-fried options, there’s something for everyone in this collection of crispy fried squash blossom recipes. So grab your ingredients, get ready to fry up some fun, and let the culinary magic begin!
Stuffed Fried Squash Blossoms with Ricotta and Herbs
This recipe showcases the sweet and savory combination of squash blossoms, ricotta cheese, and fresh herbs. The crispy fried exterior gives way to a creamy and flavorful interior, perfect for a summer evening or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, and basil.
3. Stuff each squash blossom with the cheese mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Dredge the stuffed blossoms in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Beer-Battered Fried Squash Blossoms
Squash blossoms are a sweet and delicate treat that pair perfectly with the crispy, savory goodness of beer-batter. This recipe combines the two to create a unique and addictive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and paprika.
3. Gradually add beer, whisking until smooth.
4. Dip each squash blossom into the batter, coating evenly.
5. Fry the blossoms in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Mozzarella and Anchovies
A simple yet elegant summer treat that combines the sweetness of squash blossoms with the savory flavors of mozzarella and anchovies. This recipe is perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip each squash blossom into the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Fry the blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble by placing a fried squash blossom on a plate, topping with a round of mozzarella cheese, and finishing with a few chopped anchovies.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tempura-Fried Squash Blossoms with Dipping Sauce
Discover the sweet and savory charm of tempura-fried squash blossoms, a delightful summer treat. This recipe combines the tender petals of zucchini flowers with crispy tempura batter and a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch. Gradually add soda water and mix until smooth.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Fry battered blossoms for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Prepare Dipping Sauce by whisking all ingredients together.
6. Serve fried squash blossoms hot with dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms Stuffed with Goat Cheese
A delicious summer delight that combines the sweetness of squash blossoms with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy fried package.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each squash blossom with the goat cheese mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Dredge the stuffed blossoms in flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Fry the blossoms in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Panko-Crusted Fried Squash Blossoms
A delicate and flavorful summer treat that combines the natural sweetness of squash blossoms with the crunch of Panko breadcrumbs and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, these crispy fried blooms are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the flour, then the egg, and finally the Panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry the coated squash blossoms in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, adjusting heat as needed.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total, including frying time.
Fried Squash Blossoms with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your summer cooking game with this crispy and creamy recipe. Delicate squash blossoms are filled with a flavorful mix of cheese, herbs, and spices, then fried to perfection and served with a tangy spicy aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Garlic powder to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and egg. Stuff each squash blossom with the mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Fry the blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve fried squash blossoms hot with Spicy Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Crab and Cream Cheese Filling
Elevate your appetizers with this elegant yet easy-to-make dish, featuring crispy fried squash blossoms filled with a rich crab and cream cheese mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, cream cheese, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff each squash blossom with about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture.
4. Fry the stuffed blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Parmesan and Lemon Zest
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of summer with this crispy and refreshing appetizer, perfect for warm weather gatherings. Delight in the combination of tender squash blossoms, creamy parmesan cheese, and bright lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Lemon zest from 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Rinse the squash blossoms and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and baking powder.
3. Dredge each blossom in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip the floured blossoms in the beaten egg, then coat with Parmesan cheese.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the coated squash blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Sprinkle with lemon zest before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total.
Fried Squash Blossoms with Corn and Queso Fresco
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of summer with this crispy, cheesy, and deliciously fresh appetizer. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 squash blossoms
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup Queso Fresco, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together corn kernels and crumbled Queso Fresco.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the corn mixture, coating evenly.
4. Fry coated squash blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Fried Squash Blossoms with Shrimp and Garlic Butter
Elevate your appetizer game with this mouthwatering fusion of crispy squash blossoms, succulent shrimp, and rich garlic butter. This recipe is perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons garlic butter (see note)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the blossoms in batches until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
5. In a pan, sauté the shrimp in garlic butter until pink and cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Serve the fried squash blossoms with sautéed shrimp and additional garlic butter for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Brie and Honey Drizzle
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of summer with this simple yet elegant recipe for Fried Squash Blossoms with Brie and Honey Drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms (any type, such as zucchini or yellow crookneck)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated brie cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey, for drizzling
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the squash blossoms with cold water, pat dry, and set aside.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the beaten egg, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry the coated squash blossoms in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
6. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with grated brie cheese.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Fried Squash Blossoms with Chorizo and Manchego
Savor the flavors of Spain with this crispy and savory dish, combining tender squash blossoms with spicy chorizo and nutty Manchego cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup grated Manchego cheese
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each squash blossom into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated squash blossoms for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Remove the fried blossoms from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In the same skillet, add the sliced chorizo and cook until crispy, about 1 minute.
7. Serve the fried squash blossoms with the crispy chorizo and sprinkle with Manchego cheese.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Pesto and Pine Nuts
Elevate your summer meals with this delightful and flavorful side dish, perfect for picnics or gatherings. This recipe combines the sweetness of squash blossoms with the tanginess of pesto and crunch of pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Dip each squash blossom into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry the blossoms in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Using a slotted spoon, remove the blossoms from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
5. Drizzle pesto over the fried blossoms and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Prosciutto and Fontina
Squash blossoms are a seasonal delight, and when paired with crispy prosciutto and melted fontina cheese, they become a truly unforgettable appetizer. This simple recipe brings out the best of these tender flowers.
Ingredients:
– 12 squash blossoms
– 6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 1/2 cup fontina cheese, shredded
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each squash blossom in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry the blossoms in hot vegetable oil (about 350°F) until golden brown, about 30 seconds per side.
4. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with chopped prosciutto.
5. Top each blossom with shredded fontina cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes
Fried Squash Blossoms with Truffle Oil and Sea Salt
Savor the sweet, floral flavor of squash blossoms elevated by the earthy richness of truffle oil and a touch of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Truffle oil, for serving
– Flaky sea salt, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated blossoms on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated squash blossoms in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot drizzled with truffle oil and sprinkled with sea salt.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (including frying time)
Fried Squash Blossoms with Feta and Spinach Filling
Savor the sweet, tender flavor of squash blossoms stuffed with a tangy blend of feta cheese and fresh spinach. This crispy, flavorful appetizer is perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12 squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for dipping)
– All-purpose flour (for dredging)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese and spinach.
3. Stuff each squash blossom with about 1 tablespoon of the feta-spinach mixture.
4. Dip each stuffed blossom into the beaten egg, then coat with flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the blossoms in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including preparation time).
Fried Squash Blossoms with Avocado and Lime Crema
This recipe combines the sweetness of squash blossoms with the creaminess of avocado and lime, making for a unique and delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 squash blossoms
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and paprika.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each squash blossom into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry squash blossoms until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together diced avocado and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve fried squash blossoms with the avocado and lime crema spooned on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including frying time)
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and crispy delight of fried squash blossoms with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic stuffed versions to innovative flavor combinations, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making beer-battered blossoms, tempura-fried ones with dipping sauce, or go bold with spicy aioli and chorizo. Whether you’re a fan of cheese, seafood, or herbs, these crispy fried squash blossoms are sure to impress.
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