This crispy air-fried yellow squash is a quick and tasty treat! With its light and crunchy coating, it’s the perfect side for any meal or a healthy snack.
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just slice the squash, toss it in some seasoning, and let the air fryer do its magic. It’s a win-win for flavor and ease! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh, firm squash is best. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a great alternative. They’ll both crisp up nicely and taste delicious.
Breadcrumbs: I like panko for its extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. They’ll still give a great texture!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a lovely flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese that melts well.
Spices: Feel free to play with the spices! Italian seasoning or even a bit of cayenne for heat can make a fun variation.
How Do I Get My Squash Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy squash lies in the coating and proper air frying. Here are some tips to ensure your squash comes out perfectly crispy:
- Dry the Squash: After slicing, make sure to pat the pieces dry. Extra moisture can make them soggy instead of crispy.
- Use Cooking Spray: A light spray on both sides before air frying helps achieve that golden crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed. Space allows hot air to circulate and crisp everything evenly.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary by air fryer brand.
These steps will help you achieve deliciously crispy yellow squash every time!
Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crispy Coating:
- 2 medium yellow squashes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, in just about 25 minutes, you can enjoy crispy, delicious yellow squash!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Squash:
Start by washing the yellow squashes. Cut them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This will ensure they cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Dry the Squash:
Using a paper towel, pat the squash slices dry to remove any excess moisture. This helps them get crispy in the air fryer.
3. Set Up Your Dipping Stations:
In three shallow bowls, prepare for the coating:
- In the first bowl, put the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
- In the second bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until they’re well mixed.
- In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, if using.
4. Coat the Squash Slices:
Take each squash slice and dip it into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks well. Repeat this process until all slices are coated.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that perfect crispy texture!
6. Air Fry the Squash:
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated squash slices in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray as well.
7. Cook and Flip:
Air fry the squash for about 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure they get evenly crispy and golden brown!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely finish. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like spicy mayo or ranch dressing.
Enjoy your crispy, crunchy, and healthy air-fried yellow squash! It makes for a delightful snack or side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini, eggplant, and even sliced bell peppers work great in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as different vegetables may require more or less time to cook.
How Do I Store Leftover Air-Fried Yellow Squash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry for a few minutes or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. They will still give you a delightful crunch!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with This Dish?
For a tasty twist, try serving with spicy mayo, ranch dressing, or even a garlic aioli. A simple yogurt dip with herbs also complements the flavors beautifully!
