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
Scale
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.
