This Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash is a quick and tasty side dish! With just a few ingredients, you’ll get crunchy, golden pieces that everyone will love.
I like to sprinkle some seasoning on before air frying for extra flavor. It’s so easy that I wonder why I didn’t try it sooner. Grab your squash and let’s get cooking! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is the star here! Look for firm squash with smooth skin. If you can’t find yellow squash, zucchini is a nice substitute and tastes similar when cooked.
Breadcrumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs give a nice flavor and crunch. If you prefer a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Panko can also add an extra crispy texture!
Seasonings: I love using garlic and onion powder for an extra kick. Feel free to adjust these to suit your taste or swap them for Italian seasoning or even some chili powder for heat!
Dipping Sauce: The classic combo is ranch, but you could also use a yogurt dip or hummus. It’s all about finding what you enjoy most!
How Do I Ensure My Squash Stays Crispy?
Getting the right texture is crucial! Here’s how to keep that crispiness intact:
- Make sure to slice the squash evenly; this ensures even cooking.
- After coating the slices, let them sit for a few minutes before air frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
- A good spray of oil on top before cooking is key. It encourages the breadcrumbs to brown nicely without adding too much fat.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to allow hot air to circulate properly!
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium yellow squash, washed and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Dipping sauce of choice (such as a spicy mayo or ranch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy side option. You’ll be enjoying your crispy air fryer yellow squash in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important to ensure your squash cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
2. Prepare the Coating Stations:
Set up three shallow bowls:
- In the first bowl, add the flour.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Squash:
Take each slice of yellow squash and dip it first into the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg, letting any extra egg drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help it stick well.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them! Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or olive oil spray to help them brown nicely.
5. Air Fry the Squash:
Cook the squash at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get that golden, crispy texture. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking!
6. Final Touch and Serve:
Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove the slices from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice color and flavor. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your crispy, golden air-fried yellow squash! It’s a delicious treat that everyone will love!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Yes! While yellow squash is fantastic, you can also use zucchini or even a mix of both for added variety. Just ensure the slices are similar in thickness for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed cornflakes or even ground almonds work well. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F to regain their crispy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly?
Absolutely! You can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Use a plant-based milk for soaking your squash before coating with breadcrumbs for better adhesion!
