Description
Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash delivers golden, crunch-coated veggie rounds in just 20 minutes! Guilt-free and irresistibly tasty, these air-fried bites feature a seasoned Parmesan-panko crust and a simple zesty dipping sauce—perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients
For the 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) so the squash cooks up super crisp as soon as you start.
- Prepare Your Breading Station: Set out three shallow bowls. In the first, mix flour, salt, and pepper. In bowl two, beat the eggs thoroughly. Bowl three gets the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper all mixed together.
- Bread the Squash: Dredge each squash slice in the flour (shaking off any excess), dip in the beaten eggs, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat well. This triple-layer builds maximum crunch.
- Air Fry the Squash: Place coated squash slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Donʼt stack—give each piece space. Lightly mist the tops with cooking spray for additional crispiness.
- Cooking Time: Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden and tender inside. Monitor closely towards the end—every air fryer is different.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While squash cooks, blend mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika or hot sauce in a small bowl for a tangy, creamy dip.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove cooked squash from the air fryer, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot with the prepared dipping sauce for the ultimate snack or side.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—work in batches if needed for ultimate crispiness.
- Substitute gluten-free panko and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Switch up the seasoning: try Italian seasoning or chili flakes for variety.
- These are best enjoyed fresh, as they lose crispness if stored.
- The dipping sauce is optional—try with ranch, tzatziki, or your favorite dip.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 6-8 pieces)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
