This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a fantastic and tasty dish that’s super easy to make! Just slice the squash, toss it in some olive oil, and season it up for a flavorful crunch.
I can’t help but snack on these while they cook! They’re the perfect side for any meal or even a light snack. Plus, my air fryer makes cleanup a breeze—yay for less mess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Summer Squash: Fresh squash is essential for this dish. If you can’t find summer squash, zucchini works beautifully as a substitute. Just make sure it’s similar in size for even cooking.
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs are totally fine too. For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can give a similar cheesy taste without the dairy.
Dipping Sauce: This sauce is simple and tasty! If you want to make it healthier, Greek yogurt can replace mayo. You can also mix in some hot sauce for a kick!
How Do You Get the Coating to Stick to the Squash?
Getting a good coating on your squash rounds is key for that crispy texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure to dip the squash evenly in the egg, letting excess drip off—it should be lightly coated.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the squash firmly so it adheres well.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space for air to circulate, which helps achieve that crispy finish.
By following these simple tips, your crispy air fryer yellow squash will turn out perfect every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow summer squash
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time plus 8-10 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. So, you’ll be enjoying this crispy treat in roughly 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Squash:
Start by washing the yellow squash under cool running water. Cut the squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and becoming crispy!
2. Setting Up the Breading Stations:
In one bowl, crack and whisk the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly blended.
3. Bread the Squash:
Take each squash round, dip it into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the crumbs adhere. This will ensure a nice crunchy coating!
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes so it’s hot and ready to make your squash crispy and delicious.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. If necessary, batch cook to give them room to crisp up nicely.
6. Cooking the Squash:
Give the squash a light spray of cooking spray for extra crunch. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides get golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid burning!
7. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the squash is cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is crispy and golden, carefully transfer them to a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle them with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm with your tasty dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Can I Use Zucchini Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute and will yield similar results. Just slice it in the same way and follow the recipe as directed.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
No problem! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs. Both options will still give you a deliciously crispy coating!
How Should I Store Leftover Squash?
Store any leftover crispy squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crunchy texture.
Can I Prepare the Squash Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can bread the squash rounds earlier in the day and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just keep them covered to prevent them from drying out.
