Name: Pan-Fried Crookneck Squash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons canola oil, or as needed; 3 large crookneck (yellow) squash; Salt to taste; 0.5 cup cornmeal

Vegetables

Pan-Fried Crookneck Squash

Jul 23, 2025
by Abbey Wilderman
- 5.0 / 5 ( 1 Ratings)
1 Likes

PREP TIME

10 mins
COOK TIME

15 mins
TOTAL TIME

25 mins
SERVING

6 People
VIEWS

3

Embrace the essence of Southern comfort with this pan-fried crookneck squash, a delightful side dish where the gentle sweetness of the squash is perfectly complemented by the crispy, golden cornmeal coating. A true taste of summer on your plate!

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

3 tablespoons canola oil, or as needed

3 large crookneck (yellow) squash

Salt to taste

0.5 cup cornmeal

Nutrition

Carbohydrate

15 g
Fiber

2 g
Protein

3 g
Saturated Fat

1 g
Sodium

4 mg
Sugar

4 g
Fat

7 g
Unsaturated Fat

0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a large skillet, add enough canola oil to lightly coat the bottom. Heat over medium to medium-high heat. (2 minutes)

02

Step

Slice the crookneck squash into even rounds, ensuring they are not too thick. Sprinkle generously with salt. (5 minutes)

03

Step

Gently roll each squash slice in cornmeal, ensuring it's fully coated for that perfect crispy texture. (5 minutes)

04

Step

Carefully place the cornmeal-coated squash slices in the hot skillet, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. (2 minutes)

05

Step

Fry for approximately 5 minutes, then flip and continue frying, flipping occasionally, until both sides are crispy and beautifully golden brown, approximately 10 to 15 minutes more. (15 minutes)

06

Step

Serve immediately and enjoy the best flavor and texture.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cornmeal before coating the squash.
Ensure the oil is hot before adding the squash; this helps prevent the squash from becoming soggy.
Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry the squash in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve optimal crispness.

Abbey Wilderman

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.