This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a hit! It’s simple to make and turns out golden and crunchy without all the oil. Perfect as a snack or a side dish!
Honestly, I can’t resist munching on these little bites. They disappear fast! I love serving them with a dip—it makes it even more fun at snack time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This recipe really benefits from fresh yellow squash. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini works just as well for a similar texture and taste.
Breadcrumbs: I love using seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour instead.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, you can skip it or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Cooking Spray: Use olive oil spray to keep the squash crispy. Regular cooking spray works, too, but opt for a healthier option when you can!
How Do I Get the Squash Extra Crispy?
The key to achieving that crunch is the breading process. Make sure to coat each squash slice thoroughly to hold onto that crispy texture.
- Keep your air fryer preheated, as this helps the breading crisp up quickly.
- Space the slices out in the air fryer; crowding them can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Flip the slices halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
These tips will help you create perfectly crispy air fryer yellow squash every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (such as Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup or chili sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crunchy and delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. So in under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful side dish or snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will help your squash cook evenly and get crispy!
2. Prepare Your Breading Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls for breading. Place the all-purpose flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until mixed well. In the third bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix them together so the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Bread the Yellow Squash:
Take each slice of yellow squash and dip it first into the flour, making sure both sides are coated. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs to coat it completely. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well.
4. Arrange and Spray:
Gently place the breaded squash slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them! Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or olive oil spray to help them crisp up during cooking.
5. Air Fry to Perfection:
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Halfway through, flip the slices to ensure they get golden brown on both sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning!
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While your squash is cooking, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup (or chili sauce), smoked paprika (or cayenne), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your squash is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch. Serve warm with your delicious dipping sauce on the side!
Enjoy this healthier, crispy take on fried yellow squash that’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Yellow Squash for This Recipe?
While fresh yellow squash is best for this recipe, you can use frozen squash if necessary. Be sure to thaw and drain it completely before slicing and breading, as excess moisture will prevent it from getting crispy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover crispy yellow squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to bring back the crunch!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and replace the seasoned breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour. Enjoy your gluten-free crispy yellow squash!
What Can I Serve with Crispy Yellow Squash?
This dish is versatile! Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or as part of a veggie platter. It also pairs wonderfully with a light salad or as a topping for tacos for added crunch!
