This crispy air fried yellow squash is a tasty and healthy side dish! It’s easy to whip up, and the air fryer makes it golden and crunchy without too much oil.
I love how quickly this recipe comes together. Just slice the squash, season it, and let the air fryer do its magic. Perfect for snacking or as a side! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here. If you can’t find it, zucchini makes a great substitute. It offers a similar texture and flavor!
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. If you prefer gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour mixed with some herbs and spices.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the depth flavor grated Parmesan adds. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy taste without the dairy!
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice kick. Fresh minced garlic works too but be careful not to burn it during cooking. You can skip it if you’re not a fan of garlic.
How Do You Ensure the Best Texture for Air Fried Squash?
Getting that crunchy texture can be the trickiest part! Here are some helpful tips:
- Slice Evenly: Make sure your squash slices are uniform in thickness (about 1/4 inch) for even cooking.
- Dry Well: After washing, make sure your squash rounds are dry. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Coating Technique: When breading, don’t rush! Completely coat each slice and press gently into the breadcrumb mixture for a good bond.
- Spray Lightly: A light spray of cooking oil helps create a golden crust. Too much could make them soggy!
- Flip Halfway: Remember to flip the slices halfway through to ensure even crispness on both sides.
How to Make Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain with added seasoning)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smokiness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer, so in total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes to enjoy these crispy delights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial to getting that crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Squash:
Rinse the yellow squash under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Now, slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to make the slices as even as possible for consistent cooking.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Grab three shallow bowls for your breading process:
- Bowl 1: Add the flour, seasoning it with a little salt and pepper.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until mixed.
- Bowl 3: Combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Bread the Squash:
Take each slice of squash and dip it into the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture by pressing gently so the crumbs stick well. Repeat until all slices are coated.
5. Air Fry the Squash:
Arrange the coated slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them; they need space to crisp up! Lightly spray the top of the slices with cooking spray or olive oil spray.
6. Cook to Crispy Perfection:
Air fry the squash for 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for an even golden color. They should be crispy and golden brown when done!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer. Sprinkle the tops with chopped fresh parsley for a little pop of color. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy aioli or ranch dressing!
Enjoy your crunchy, delicious, and healthier air fried yellow squash bites!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Types of Squash for This Recipe?
Yes! While yellow squash is fantastic, zucchini is a great substitute as it has a similar texture and flavor. You could also try butternut squash for a sweeter twist, but adjust cooking time as needed!
What If I Don’t Have Seasoned Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Or, simply use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F to regain that crispy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water, let it sit until it thickens) and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor!
