This crispy air fryer yellow squash is a must-try! With its golden color and crunchy texture, it will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s super easy to make too!
I love how quick it is to whip up this dish—just slice, season, and air fry! It’s a perfect side for any meal, and let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoy crispy veggies? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, zucchini works as a good alternative. Both have a mild taste and crisp texture when cooked.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, though they won’t be as crispy. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese brings great flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, feel free to skip the cheese for a lighter version.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika are excellent for flavoring the squash. You can mix it up by adding some Italian herbs or even a pinch of cayenne for heat, depending on your preference.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Crunch in My Air Fried Yellow Squash?
The secret to a crispy texture lies in the breading process and cooking technique. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by ensuring your squash slices are evenly cut; this promotes even cooking. Keeping them around 1/4-inch thick gives the right balance between crispiness and tenderness.
- Follow the breading steps: coat the squash in flour first, which helps the egg stick better, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the squash for a thicker coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! This ensures hot air circulates well and crisps up every slice evenly. If needed, cook in batches to maintain space.
- Lightly spray the breaded squashes with oil before cooking. This part is crucial; it makes a big difference in achieving that golden, crispy finish.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or hot sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fryer yellow squash recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you will spend about 20 minutes to have this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your squash will get that crispy texture as soon as you place it inside.
2. Prepare Your Breading Station:
Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Squash:
Take a slice of yellow squash and dip it into the flour mixture first, making sure it’s lightly coated. Next, dip it into the egg, and finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated. This will create a tasty and crunchy outer layer!
4. Air Fry the Squash:
Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket, as this may prevent them from getting crispy. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for an extra crunch.
5. Cooking Time:
Air fry the squash for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and the squash is tender.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
While the squash is cooking, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika (or hot sauce) in a small bowl for a quick dipping sauce that pairs perfectly!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the squash out of the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with the delicious dipping sauce alongside for a delightful crunch!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful, and healthier air-fried yellow squash bites! They make a fantastic snack or side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash Recipe
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini is a great substitute since it has a similar texture and taste. You can also try eggplant or even carrots, but keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments to cooking times.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work as well. For a gluten-free option, consider using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the crispy texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Air-Fried Yellow Squash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a quick crisp, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can make this dish vegan by using a plant-based egg replacement (like flaxseed meal mixed with water or aquafaba) for breading, and replacing the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
