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There is nothing quite as satisfying as a snack that is crispy, flavorful, and quick to make, and this Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash with Parmesan and Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe delivers exactly that. The tender yet crunchy squash slices, coated in a savory blend of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs, make for a deliciously addictive bite, while the spicy dipping sauce brings the perfect touch of creamy heat. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a side dish, or just a fun way to enjoy yellow squash, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-tos in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is delightful in its simplicity, relying on a handful of staple ingredients that work together to provide amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the crisp coating to the creamy, spicy dipping sauce that elevates the squash to something truly special.
- Yellow Squash: Choose firm, medium-sized squash for perfect slice thickness and tenderness.
- All-purpose Flour: Helps the coating stick and provides a light base layer on the squash slices.
- Eggs: Bind the coating ingredients to the squash, ensuring an even, crispy crust.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: This Japanese-style breadcrumb gives an airy crunch that’s essential for ultimate crispiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the squash beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses subtle savory notes enhancing the overall taste.
- Paprika: Provides a mild smoky depth and a lovely color to the coating mixture.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential to season every bite perfectly.
- Cooking Spray or Olive Oil Spray: Helps the coating brown nicely without added grease.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish as garnish.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the spicy dipping sauce.
- Ketchup: Brings a touch of sweetness and tang to the sauce.
- Smoked Paprika or Hot Sauce: Optional ingredients that infuse a smoky heat to make the dipping sauce exciting.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash with Parmesan and Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by heating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Getting the appliance to this temperature ahead of time ensures that the squash slices cook quickly and develop that coveted crispy crust from the very first moment they hit the basket. This step sets the stage for perfectly cooked squash with minimal oil.
Step 2: Prepare Your Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls for an efficient breading process. In the first, combine the flour with salt and pepper—this light seasoning primes the squash. Whisk eggs in the second bowl to create a sticky layer. The third bowl is where the magic happens—mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a flavor-packed coating that crisps beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 3: Bread the Squash
Dip each yellow squash slice first into the flour, coating lightly but thoroughly. Then plunge it into the beaten eggs, and finally press it into your breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Make sure each slice is generously coated on all sides—that’s the secret to achieving that irresistible crunch. Taking your time here ensures every bite is full of texture and flavor.
Step 4: Air Fry the Squash
Arrange the breaded slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket; don’t overcrowd to avoid sogginess. Lightly spray each slice with cooking spray to help them brown evenly and to add an extra touch of crispiness. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to ensure both sides turn a gorgeous golden brown and the squash remains tender inside.
Step 5: Make the Spicy Dipping Sauce
While the squash is crisping up, whip up the dipping sauce by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika or hot sauce in a small bowl. Stir everything until smooth and creamy—a perfect blend of tangy, spicy, and luscious that pairs beautifully with the crispy squash.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the squash rounds are golden and crisp, transfer them to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of vibrant color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside your spicy dipping sauce for a fun, flavorful snack or appetizer sure to impress family and friends.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash with Parmesan and Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds bright color but also a gentle herbal note that balances the richness of the Parmesan and the heat of the sauce. For an extra punch, a light dusting of grated Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top can brighten the dish beautifully and enhance every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, a bowl of tomato soup, or even grilled chicken or fish for a delightful summer meal. The crispy yellow squash adds texture and variety to any plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, serve these crispy treats on a platter with the dipping sauce in the center for easy sharing. You can also stack the squash slices like mini towers and drizzle the sauce over them for a fun, playful presentation. Alternatively, use the squash slices as crunchy croutons tossed into salads or soups for a surprising twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover crispy squash should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated, where they stay fresh for up to two days. To maintain as much crispiness as possible, lay them in a single layer separated by parchment paper.
Freezing
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the unbaked breaded squash slices by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To revive leftover or frozen cooked squash, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that tends to make the coating soggy instead of crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow squash works wonderfully here, zucchini or even pattypan squash are fantastic alternatives that will crisp up nicely with the same breading technique.
Is the dipping sauce very spicy?
The dipping sauce offers a mild heat that can be adjusted to your preference. Simply use smoked paprika for a smoky depth without much spice, or add hot sauce if you want something with more kick.
Do I have to use an air fryer?
You can bake these in a conventional oven or even shallow fry them, but the air fryer provides the best balance of crispiness and quick cooking with less oil, making it a healthier option that still delivers on crunch.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by substituting the eggs with a plant-based binder like aquafaba or flax eggs, and using vegan mayonnaise and cheese alternatives, you can easily make this recipe friendly for a vegan diet.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Ensuring each slice is evenly coated in flour, then egg, and finally pressing firmly into the breadcrumb mixture helps the breading adhere better. Don’t overcrowd during cooking, and flip carefully halfway through to keep the crust intact.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and eating this Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash with Parmesan and Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe as much as I do. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but comes together so easily, perfect for any day you want a quick, crunchy, flavorful snack or side. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy yellow squash!
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Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash with Parmesan and Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash recipe offers a deliciously crunchy, golden-brown snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare and healthier than traditional frying. Coated with a seasoned panko and Parmesan crust, these tender yellow squash rounds are perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a light yet flavorful bite. Served with a tangy homemade dipping sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or a satisfying vegetable side.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Yellow 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)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the squash cooks evenly and achieves a crispy texture.
- Prepare Your Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: in the first, combine flour, salt, and pepper; beat eggs in the second bowl; in the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Squash: Dip each squash slice into the flour mixture, coating lightly, then into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each slice is evenly coated.
- Air Fry the Squash: Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Lightly spray with cooking spray to help crisp the coating.
- Cooking Time: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and tender. Adjust cooking time as needed based on your air fryer model.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While the squash cooks, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika or hot sauce (if using) in a small bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cooked squash from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with the prepared dipping sauce.
Notes
- Ensure squash slices are evenly coated for best crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on air fryer brand and model.
- For a spicier dip, add more hot sauce or smoked paprika.
- Leftover crispy squash can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crunch.
