Prepare to revolutionize your vegetable game with these mouthwatering Spinach Kale and Spaghetti Squash Fritters that will make even the most veggie-resistant eater beg for seconds! Imagine crispy, golden-brown patties packed with nutritious greens and the magical strands of spaghetti squash, transforming ordinary vegetables into an irresistible culinary masterpiece. These fritters aren't just a side dish - they're a flavor-packed adventure that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and exciting!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds using a spoon.
- Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily scraped into spaghetti-like strands.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Use a fork to scrape the flesh into a large mixing bowl, creating spaghetti-like strands.
- Add chopped spinach and kale to the squash strands. Use paper towels to gently squeeze out excess moisture from the vegetables to prevent soggy fritters.
- In the same bowl, add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of olive oil.
- Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop the mixture and form into compact patties. Carefully place the fritters in the hot skillet.
- Cook each fritter for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with a side of yogurt or marinara sauce if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispy fritters! Always thoroughly drain your vegetables using paper towels to ensure a perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Use a non-stick skillet and maintain medium heat to prevent burning while achieving that gorgeous crisp.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - cook fritters in batches to maintain optimal temperature and ensure even cooking.
- For extra crispiness, you can finish the fritters in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5 minutes after pan-frying.
- Experiment with additional herbs like fresh basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile of your fritters.
- These fritters can be made ahead and reheated in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
- Serve with a tangy yogurt sauce or marinara for an extra flavor boost that complements the vegetable medley perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 135kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 99mg
