This crispy air-fried yellow squash is a tasty treat! It’s easy to make and turns out golden and crunchy without much oil. Yum!
There’s something special about the crunch and flavor of these little bites! I like to sprinkle some cheese on top if I’m feeling fancy—who doesn’t love a cheesy veggie? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Squash: Fresh yellow squash is key for this recipe. If you can’t find it, zucchini makes a great substitute for a similar texture and taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are fantastic for crunch. If you’re out, regular breadcrumbs work, but they may not be as crispy. For gluten-free options, use almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds flavor and helps with browning. You can swap it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version or use any hard cheese you have on hand.
Dipping Sauce: This sauce is creamy and tangy! If you prefer a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, or a simple vinaigrette also works nicely.
How Do I Get My Squash Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To achieve that perfect crunch, follow these steps:
- Even Coating: Make sure each slice is well-coated in flour, egg, and the breadcrumb mixture. This creates a great layer for crisping.
- Single Layer: Place the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer. Crowding the basket can lead to steam rather than crispness.
- Use Oil Spray: Don’t skip the light spray on the tops of the squash; it helps them brown beautifully.
- Flip Halfway: Turn the slices during cooking to promote even browning on both sides.
Taking the time to follow these tips will help you achieve perfectly crispy air-fried yellow squash every time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fried 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 panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fried yellow squash recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious snack or side dish!
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 will ensure the squash gets nice and crispy.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Get three shallow bowls ready. In the first bowl, pour in the flour. In the second bowl, crack and beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Squash Slices:
Take each slice of yellow squash and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each slice is well-covered!
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overlapping.
5. Spray for Extra Crispiness:
Once the squash is in the basket, give the tops a light spray with cooking spray. This will help them get a lovely golden color as they cook.
6. Air Fry the Squash:
Cook the squash at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a golden brown and crispy finish!
7. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While you wait, mix together the dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce (if using), smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir!
8. Serve It Up:
Once the squash is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving plate. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy!
Serve the crispy yellow squash warm with the dipping sauce on the side. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Enjoy your crunchy, golden, air-fried yellow squash with a flavorful dip! It’s a simple delight that everyone will love!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Yellow Squash?
Absolutely! Zucchini works great as a substitute, and you can also try eggplant, mushrooms, or even bell pepper slices for a fun twist.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Bread Crumbs?
No worries! You can use regular breadcrumbs, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as crispy. Alternatively, crushed crackers or cornflakes can also provide a nice crunch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crispy squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F to regain that crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour for the coating and substituting the panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
