Yellow Squash Finger Style

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Southern

Crispy yellow squash fingers with a savory cornmeal coating offer a delightful snack or appetizer, perfect for those who enjoy crunchy textures and Southern flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 6 yellow squash
  • 2 cups self rising yellow cornmeal mix
  • 1 1/2 cups ice cold water
  • 2 eggs
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Cut unpeeled yellow squash into finger-sized strips.
  2. Stir together eggs, ice-cold water, self-rising yellow cornmeal mix, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip squash fingers into the batter, then gently tap on the side of the bowl to remove excess coating.
  4. Deep fry in your favorite oil until golden brown.
  5. Drain well on a brown paper bag.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the batter. If you don't have self-rising cornmeal mix, you can substitute it with regular cornmeal and add baking powder. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture. You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of batter into it; it should sizzle immediately.

Serving Suggestions

These yellow squash fingers make a fantastic appetizer or snack. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or a spicy aioli for dipping. They pair beautifully with Garlic Potato Dish for a hearty meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving a light salad on the side to balance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover squash fingers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and regain some crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Yellow Squash Finger Style contains roughly 615 calories, with 10g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 908mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

615 kcal 31% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.4g 21% DV
Total Fat 9.6g 12% DV
Carbs 124.2g 45% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 907.8mg 39% DV
Potassium 810.1mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 387mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 94.5mcg 11% DV
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 351.3mg 27% DV
Iron 2.9mg 16% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or even eggplant. Each will bring a different flavor and texture, but the cooking method remains the same. Make sure to cut them into similar finger-sized strips for even cooking.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free self-rising cornmeal mix or substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including any seasonings, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

What type of oil is best for frying?

For frying, it's best to use oils with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures needed to achieve a golden-brown finish without burning.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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