This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a tasty and easy side dish! The squash comes out golden and crunchy, perfect for a quick snack or alongside your favorite meal.
I love how simple it is to make. Just slice, season, and let the air fryer work its magic! It’s a fun way to get my veggies in and makes me feel like a kitchen pro. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! It’s tender and has a mild flavor. If yellow squash isn’t available, zucchini makes a great substitute. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as zucchini cooks a little faster.
Breadcrumbs: I love using Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch! If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Crushed cornflakes can also work for added texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding Parmesan gives delicious depth. You can skip it for a dairy-free version or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Dipping Sauce: The dipping sauce is optional but adds a nice kick! You can use yogurt or sour cream for a healthier twist. Just mix in your favorite spices or herbs.
How Do I Get My Squash Crispy in the Air Fryer?
The crunchiness of the squash comes from proper breading and cooking! Here’s how to ensure you get that nice crispy texture:
- Make sure to pat the squash dry. This helps the breading stick and prevents sogginess.
- Keep the layers thin in the air fryer basket. If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam rather than crisp up.
- Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. This promotes browning and creates a crunch.
- Flipping halfway through ensures both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy air fryer yellow squash every time! Happy cooking!
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Panko or regular, seasoned with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup or hot sauce (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fryer yellow squash takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 10-12 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delightful side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve that perfect crunchy texture!
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
Grab three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. This will be your breading assembly line.
3. Prepare the Squash:
Use a paper towel to pat the yellow squash slices dry. This is important because it will help the breading stick and keep the squash from getting soggy.
4. Breading the Squash:
Take one slice of squash and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra egg drip off. Finally, coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick well. Repeat this for all squash slices.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Then, place the coated squash slices in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding—work in batches if needed!
6. Air Fry the Squash:
Lightly spray the tops of the squash slices with cooking spray for added crispiness. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the squash is frying, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup or hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. This will make a tasty dip!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side. Dive in and enjoy your crispy air fryer yellow squash!
This dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to enjoy your veggies. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute if you can’t find yellow squash. Just slice it the same way and adjust the cooking time since zucchini cooks faster!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for a crunchy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Squash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed and crispy again!
What Can I Serve with Crispy Yellow Squash?
This dish pairs well with a variety of meals! Serve it as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or alongside a fresh salad for a light, tasty meal. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun snack!
