Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that's not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes? Say hello to Spicy Spaghetti Squash Latkes! These golden, crispy delights are a clever twist on traditional latkes, combining the wholesome goodness of spaghetti squash with a kick of cayenne pepper that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive party dish, these latkes are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a mouthwatering vegetarian treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 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 for 35-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily scrapes into spaghetti-like strands.
- Remove squash from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Using a fork, carefully scrape the flesh to create spaghetti-like strands into a large mixing bowl.
- Place the squash strands in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly. This step is crucial to ensure crispy latkes.
- In the same bowl, add eggs, flour, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are completely combined.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking.
- Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop the squash mixture and carefully drop into the hot oil. Flatten each latke slightly with a spatula.
- Cook each latke for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Transfer cooked latkes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with additional salt if desired.
- Serve hot immediately, optionally with a side of Greek yogurt or sour cream for dipping.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a medium-sized spaghetti squash that feels heavy for its size, which indicates ripeness and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Drying Step: Squeezing out excess moisture from the squash strands is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture in your latkes. Use a clean kitchen towel and really wring it out!
- Oil Temperature Matters: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the latkes. If it’s not hot enough, they may absorb too much oil and become soggy.
- Batch Cooking: To ensure even cooking and crispiness, fry the latkes in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy results.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch, serve your latkes with a side of Greek yogurt or sour cream, and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in a skillet for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 70mg
