This crispy air-fried yellow squash is a tasty treat! With a golden exterior and tender inside, it’s a fun way to enjoy your veggies. Plus, it’s easy to make in just a few minutes!
I love to sprinkle some herbs on top for added flavor. Who knew eating veggies could feel like a snack? Perfect for movie night or as a side dish at dinner! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: This is the star of the dish! Choose fresh, firm squash. If you’re looking for alternatives, zucchini works well too, giving a similar texture.
Breadcrumbs: I like using seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. You can easily substitute with panko for an even crunchier texture. If gluten-free, opt for almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor, but you can swap with Pecorino Romano or skip it for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast makes a tasty non-dairy replacement!
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika add depth, but feel free to personalize! Try Italian seasoning or a squeeze of lemon for a zesty twist.
How Do I Get My Squash Extra Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispy texture is key with air frying. Here’s what to focus on:
- Make sure your squash slices are even for uniform cooking.
- Coat each slice well in flour, then egg, and lastly breadcrumbs. This triple coating is essential!
- Don’t forget to spray the coated squash with oil—this helps them crisp up nicely.
- Arrange in a single layer without overcrowding in the air fryer for best results.
- Flip halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get that golden crunch.
With these tips, your yellow squash will come out perfectly crispy every time!
Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Squash:
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
For the Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain with added seasoning)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air-fried yellow squash recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 8-10 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer, making it a quick and delicious addition to any meal. Get ready to enjoy a perfect snack in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your squash gets that lovely crispy texture right from the beginning.
2. Set Up Your Dipping Stations:
Grab three shallow bowls for the breading station. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour and season it lightly with salt and pepper. In the second, beat the eggs until they’re smooth. In the third bowl, mix together the seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and a little salt and pepper. This is where the flavor magic happens!
3. Coat the Squash Slices:
Now it’s time to bread the squash! Take each slice and first dip it into the flour, making sure to coat both sides. Next, move it to the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing the crumbs onto the squash to ensure they stick.
4. Prepare for Frying:
Once your squash is coated, give each slice a light spray of cooking spray or olive oil spray. This helps them get extra crispy without needing too much oil.
5. Air Fry the Squash:
Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them; they need space to cook evenly. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and crispy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the crispy yellow squash from the air fryer and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy mayo or ranch dressing.
Enjoy this crispy, golden treat that’s perfect as a snack or side dish!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fried Yellow Squash
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! This breading technique works wonderfully with other vegetables. Zucchini, eggplant, and even bell peppers can be substituted for yellow squash. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary, as some vegetables may require less or more time in the air fryer.
How Do I Store Leftover Crispy Squash?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness. Alternatively, you can use an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this crispy squash gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a different texture.
What Should I Serve With This Squash?
Crispy air-fried yellow squash pairs beautifully with various dishes! Serve it as a side with grilled meats, toss it onto salads, or enjoy it as a snack with dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or a yogurt-based dip for added flavor!
