Spiced Butternut Squash Fritters with Citrus Herb Salsa

Ingredients

• •2 cups grated butternut squash
• •1/4 cup chopped green onions
• •1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• •1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• •2 large eggs, beaten
• •1 teaspoon ground cumin
• •1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• •Salt to taste
• •Black pepper to taste
• •2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• •1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for salsa)
• •1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (for salsa)
• •1 tablespoon lime juice (for salsa)
• •1 small jalapeño, finely diced (for salsa)
• •1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing salsa)
• •Salt to taste (for salsa)

Instructions

1. 1

   Grate the butternut squash into a large mixing bowl and pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

2. 2

   Add the chopped green onions, all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.

3. 3

   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. 4

   Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each fritter and shape into small patties. Place them gently into the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

5. 5

   Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. 6

   To prepare the Citrus Herb Salsa, combine the chopped fresh cilantro, orange juice, lime juice, diced jalapeño, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Season with salt to taste and mix well.

7. 7

   Serve the warm fritters with a generous spoonful of Citrus Herb Salsa on top. Enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.