This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a tasty and healthy side dish that’s super easy to make! Just slice the squash, season it, and let the air fryer work its magic for that perfect crunch.
Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll love how it adds color to your plate! I can’t resist snacking on these as I cook. They disappear fast, so maybe make a double batch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash provides great texture and a mild flavor. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini makes a good substitute with a similar taste and texture.
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for its extra crunch, but if you need a gluten-free option, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers work well too.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy!
Egg: For a vegan option, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or use unsweetened applesauce.
How Do I Get My Squash Extra Crispy?
The trick to getting your squash super crispy in the air fryer is in the coating and cooking technique. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Make sure to slice your squash evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the squash pieces; this helps them stick and forms a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give the pieces space to allow air to circulate around them, which makes them crispy.
- Spraying the squash lightly with olive oil before cooking helps them achieve that golden brown finish.
- Flip the slices halfway through cooking for even crispness on both sides.
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup or sriracha (for a spicy touch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time and around 12 minutes of cooking time. In just about 20 minutes, you can have a delicious, crispy snack or side dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets that delicious crispiness.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well mixed. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the squash.
3. Prepare the Dry Coating:
In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’d like a smoky twist), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until well combined!
4. Coat the Yellow Squash:
Now it’s time to coat those squash slices! Dip each slice first into the egg mixture, making sure to let any excess egg drip off. Then, coat them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the slices to ensure they stick well and create a nice crust.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Carefully place the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you need to, cook them in batches. Lightly spray or brush the tops with olive oil, which will help achieve that lovely golden color.
6. Air Fry to Perfection:
Air fry the squash for 10-12 minutes. Remember to flip the slices halfway through to get them evenly crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they don’t overcook!
7. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the squash is cooking, why not whip up a quick dipping sauce? Simply mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup (or sriracha for a zing), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
8. Finishing Touches:
Once the squash is crispy and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a bit of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the crispy yellow squash warm with your delicious dipping sauce on the side. These make for a great snack, appetizer, or side dish to any meal!
This recipe creates a crunchy, tasty treat that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works great as a substitute and will yield a similar texture and flavor. You can follow the same instructions for preparation and cooking.
What Should I Do If My Squash Is Getting Soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to slice the squash evenly and not too thick. Also, ensure that each slice is well-coated with breadcrumbs, and give them enough space in the air fryer for air circulation. A light spray of olive oil helps, too!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the squash slices and coat them in breadcrumbs ahead of time. Store them in a single layer in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the air fryer. They may take a minute or two longer to cook from being cold.
How Do I Store Leftover Crispy Squash?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer or oven at a low temperature to regain their crispiness. Microwaving may make them soggy, so avoid that if possible!
