This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a tasty and healthy side dish. It’s super easy to make and comes out perfectly golden and crunchy every time!
I love how quick it is to whip this up when I want something fun and light. Plus, the kids think it’s a treat! Who knew veggies could be so exciting? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for this recipe, but zucchini can substitute if needed. Zucchini offers a similar texture and flavor, making both options great for crunchiness.
Breadcrumbs: I love using seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor! If you need a gluten-free option, try almond flour or crushed cornflakes mixed with some herbs for a crispy coating.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice flavor boost, but feel free to skip it if you’re dairy-free. Nutritional yeast works well as a cheese substitute for a nutty flavor.
Cooking Spray: A light spray of olive oil helps achieve that crispy texture. You can also drizzle a little oil over the slices for the same effect—just don’t overdo it!
How Do You Make Sure the Squash is Crispy?
To get that perfect crispy texture, follow these tips when breading and cooking the squash:
- Make sure your squash slices are uniform in thickness (about 1/4-inch) for even cooking.
- Dip the slices in flour before the eggs, as it helps the eggs stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each piece space to allow hot air to circulate for that nice crisp.
- Halfway through cooking, flip the slices to ensure both sides get that golden finish.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Depending on your air fryer, cooking times may vary.
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian style or plain with added herbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce or smoked paprika (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. So, in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a crispy, delicious side ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it warm up for about 5 minutes while you prep your ingredients.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, crack and beat the two eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper together.
3. Bread the Squash:
Now, it’s time to coat the squash! Take each slice and dip it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Arrange and Spray:
Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t crowded for the best crispiness. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or olive oil spray.
5. Air Frying Time:
Air fry the squash at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking for even browning. Look for a golden brown color and crispy texture!
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While the squash is cooking, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce or smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is crispy and golden, carefully remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side for extra flavor!
Enjoy your crispy, golden air fryer yellow squash as a light snack or a delicious side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or even eggplant. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetable you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed cornflakes, panko, or even ground oats for a gluten-free option. Just make sure to season them to your taste for maximum flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
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 their crispiness, or bake them in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bread the squash in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just make sure to keep them in a single layer and covered to prevent sticking!
