This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a tasty and easy side dish! With just a sprinkle of seasoning, you get perfectly golden slices that are crunchy and delicious.
I love serving this squash with dinner, and it’s so quick to make. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone complaining! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for firm squash with a bright color. Zucchini is a great substitute if you’re in a pinch.
Breadcrumbs: I used seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you don’t have them, you can make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning or use panko for extra crunch.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a great cheesy flavor!
Eggs: These help the breading stick. For a vegan version, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a plant-based milk with a bit of cornstarch.
Cooking Spray: This helps achieve that crispy texture. If you don’t have spray, brush the slices with oil instead.
How Can I Ensure My Squash is Extra Crispy?
To get that perfect crispiness, follow these steps:
- Make sure your yellow squash slices are uniform in thickness (about 1/4 inch) for even cooking.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray! A light coat helps the breading crisp up beautifully.
- Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can cause steaming instead of frying.
- Flipping the slices halfway through cooking ensures even browning and crunchiness.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with crunchy, 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 rounds about 1/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain with added seasoning)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce or smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and crispy side dish ready to enjoy!
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 ensures that your squash cooks evenly and gets really crispy!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
You’ll need three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Squash:
Take a slice of yellow squash and dip it into the flour, making sure to shake off any extra. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly so it sticks well. Repeat this for all the squash slices.
4. Prepare for Cooking:
Place the breaded squash slices on a plate and give them a light spray on both sides with the cooking spray. This will help them become perfectly crispy in the air fryer.
5. Air Fry the Squash:
Arrange the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook in batches if you have a lot. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While the squash is cooking, you can whip up the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce (or smoked paprika), and garlic powder. Mix well and set aside.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is done cooking, transfer the crispy slices to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice pop of color. Serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy your crispy, golden air fryer yellow squash as a delicious and healthier snack or side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini, eggplant, or even carrots. Just adjust cooking time as needed, since some vegetables may take longer or shorter to become crispy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The result will still be deliciously crispy!
What Can I Serve with This Air Fryer Squash?
This crispy squash is great on its own or served with your favorite dipping sauce. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a veggie platter!
