This crispy air fryer yellow squash is super easy and oh-so-tasty! With just a little olive oil and seasoning, you’ll get golden, crunchy bites that are perfect as a snack or a side dish.
You know what I love? No messy oil splashes! Cooking in the air fryer makes everything simple, and the squash turns out delicious every time. Totally a win-win in my kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Choose firm, medium-sized yellow squash for the best texture. If unavailable, zucchini can be a great substitute; both have similar flavors.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but you can use plain breadcrumbs instead. Panko gives an extra crunch—perfect if you love that crispy texture!
Eggs: The eggs help the coating stick, but if you’re looking for an egg-free option, try using a mixture of flour and water or a flaxseed meal blend (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes).
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add a lovely flavor. Feel free to mix in other spices like cayenne for a kick or Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Do I Get My Squash Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that extra crunch on your squash is all about preparation and cooking method. Here are some tips to ensure your squash turns out crispy:
- **Slice Evenly:** Cut the squash into uniform 1/4-inch rounds. This ensures they cook evenly and consistently.
- **Dry the Squash:** After washing the squash, make sure it’s completely dry. Excess moisture can create steam and make it hard to achieve crispiness.
- **Use Cooking Spray:** Lightly spray the tops of the coated squash before air frying. This helps facilitate browning.
- **Avoid Overcrowding:** Air fry in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to keep the air flowing properly.
- **Flip Halfway:** Turning the squash halfway through cooking ensures both sides get crispy and golden.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have crispy, delicious air fryer yellow squash every time!
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 all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons ketchup or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and 10 minutes in the air fryer. Including the prep and cooking, you’ll be enjoying your crispy yellow squash in about 25 minutes. Fast and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yellow Squash:
Start by washing and drying the yellow squash. Then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices the same thickness for even cooking.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
Gather three bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re well combined. In the third bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Squash:
Take each squash slice and dip it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, coat it in the egg mixture, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until well covered. Set the breaded slices aside on a plate.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to get it nice and hot. This helps achieve that crispiness!
5. Air Fry the Squash:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the breaded squash slices in a single layer without overlapping. Give the tops a light spray with cooking spray as well.
6. Cook:
Air fry the squash for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them for the best results!
7. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While the squash is cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup or hot sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. This dipping sauce will complement the squash perfectly!
8. Serve:
Once cooked, arrange the crispy yellow squash on a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful air fryer yellow squash! It’s a delicious snack or side dish that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Yes! While yellow squash is perfect for this recipe, zucchini works well too. You can even mix different types of squash for a fun twist on this dish!
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or almond flour. For a healthier choice, try finely ground oats or whole wheat breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover crispy squash 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 to regain their crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use a plant-based milk to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Feel free to reach out with any more questions or tips! Enjoy your cooking!
