This crispy air-fried yellow squash is a tasty, healthy treat that’s super easy to make! With just a little oil and seasoning, you’ll get a golden crunch that’s hard to resist.
Whenever I make this dish, it disappears fast! I love serving it as a side or even a snack. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This dish calls for medium yellow squash, which has a mild flavor and soft texture. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great substitute as it will give similar results.
Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. They work well for this recipe too.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the extra depth that Parmesan brings. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the cheese. If you have other cheeses, feel free to use those, just keep in mind different melting points.
Spices: Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are important for the flavor. Feel free to add other spices like paprika or Italian herbs if you want to shake things up!
How Do I Make Sure My Squash is Crispy?
A common challenge is achieving that crispy texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Ensure your squash slices are uniform; this helps them cook evenly.
- Pat the squash dry before breading to remove excess moisture, which can make them soggy.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each slice space for hot air to circulate.
- For an extra crunch, consider giving them a light spray of cooking oil before air frying.
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect golden crunch! Enjoy making this delicious, healthy dish!
Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squash, cut into 1/4 inch slices
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian style recommended)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or oil mist
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10-12 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. You’ll have delicious, crispy yellow squash ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your squash starts cooking right away for that crispy texture!
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready for the breading. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the two eggs well. In the third bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mixing the dry ingredients helps distribute the flavor evenly.
3. Bread the Squash:
Take a slice of yellow squash and dip it into the flour first, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip the floured slice into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drop off. Finally, press the slice into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Repeat this process for all the squash slices.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to help them get that golden crispiness you love!
5. Air Fry the Squash:
Cook the squash slices in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through your cooking time to ensure they brown evenly. When they’re golden brown and crispy, they’re ready!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them right away with your favorite dipping sauce, like spicy mayo or ranch. Enjoy!
There you have it—crispy, delicious air-fried yellow squash that everyone will love! Perfect for a snack or a healthy side dish at your next meal!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works great as a substitute due to its similar texture and flavor. You could also try eggplant or sweet potatoes, but adjust the cooking time since they might take a bit longer to become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure to check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
How Should I Store Leftover Air Fried Yellow Squash?
Store any leftover squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the air fryer or oven to retain their crispiness; avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.
Can I Freeze the Breaded Squash Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded squash for up to 2 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
