Air Fryer Squash

This quick and simple Air Fryer Squash recipe brings a delightful touch to your meals, making it perfect for any occasion. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy crispy, tender yellow squash seasoned with olive oil and spices. The air fryer transforms this humble vegetable into a flavorful side dish that complements any main course or can stand alone as a healthy snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Crunch: The air fryer gives the squash a crispy texture while keeping it tender inside.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with various proteins or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Low in calories and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free option.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples that are easy to find.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Air Fryer Squash, having the right tools will ensure success. Preparing your workspace with essential kitchen gadgets will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Ensures even cooking while creating a crispy exterior without excess oil.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the squash into even cubes.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through the squash easy and efficient.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together without mess.

Ingredients

This easy Air Fryer Squash recipe is ready in just 10 minutes! Fresh yellow squash is tossed in olive oil, spices, and parmesan and air fried until it is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!

For the Squash

• 3 medium yellow squash (about 4 cups, cubed)
• spray olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper to taste
• 3 heaping tablespoons grated parmesan

How to Make Air Fryer Squash

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

Start by quartering the squash into small cubes. Spray them lightly with olive oil, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss gently to ensure an even coating.

Step 2: Add Parmesan

Once coated in oil and spices, add the grated parmesan to the bowl. Toss gently again to distribute the cheese evenly without overmixing.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer for about 3 minutes at 390 degrees F. This step helps achieve that crispy texture we desire.

Step 4: Cook the Squash

Carefully add a liner to your air fryer basket. Place the seasoned squash in an even layer in the basket. Cook for 5 minutes initially. Afterward, toss the squash gently before continuing to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until golden brown and tender.

Cooking Note:

Yellow squash tends to have more moisture than zucchini, which means it requires slightly more cooking time—around 10-12 minutes total compared to zucchini’s 8-10 minutes.

Enjoy your deliciously crispy Air Fryer Squash, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Air Fryer Squash

Air Fryer Squash is a delightful and versatile dish that can complement many meals. There are several delicious ways to serve it that will elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken for a healthy meal.
• Serve alongside steak for a savory contrast.
• Enjoy with baked fish for a light, nutritious option.

In Salads

• Toss in a fresh garden salad for added texture.
• Mix with quinoa and greens for a hearty salad.
• Add to pasta salads for extra flavor and color.

As a Snack

• Serve warm with a yogurt dip for a tasty snack.
• Pair with hummus and pita chips for a Mediterranean twist.

In Wraps or Tacos

• Use as a filling in wraps with turkey or hummus.
• Stuff into tacos along with beans and avocado for a fun twist.

With Dips

• Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Pair with ranch dressing for an irresistible combination.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Squash

To achieve the best results when making Air Fryer Squash, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh squash: Select firm, blemish-free squash for optimal flavor and texture.
• Cut evenly: Ensure all pieces are similar in size to promote even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: For crispy squash, arrange in a single layer without stacking.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different spices to match your taste preferences.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your squash, as cooking times can vary based on air fryer models.
• Let it cool slightly: Allow the squash to rest after cooking to enhance its crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Squash

Air Fryer Squash pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crunchy sprouts add depth and flavor to your meal.
3. Couscous Salad: A refreshing mix of couscous, vegetables, and herbs provides texture contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious broccoli complements the soft texture of air-fried squash beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds seasonal flair and sweetness to your plate.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a vibrant side that pairs perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Air Fryer Squash, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the oil: Not using enough olive oil can lead to dry squash. Ensure you coat the squash well for crispy results.
• Overcrowding the basket: Adding too much squash at once prevents even cooking. Cook in batches if needed for optimal crispness.
• Inconsistent cutting: Cutting squash into uneven sizes can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform cubes for consistent texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season adequately can make your dish bland. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavor.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping preheating may lead to longer cooking times and less crispy results. Always preheat your air fryer as directed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Air Fryer Squash in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Squash

• For long-term storage, freeze Air Fryer Squash in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It is best used within 2-3 months for optimum taste and texture.

Reheating Air Fryer Squash

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! While this recipe features yellow squash, you can also use zucchini or butternut squash as alternatives.

How do I achieve extra crispiness with Air Fryer Squash?

To get that extra crunch, ensure you coat the squash evenly with olive oil and avoid overcrowding the basket during cooking.

Can I add additional toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices, herbs, or even cheese varieties like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.

How do I know when my Air Fryer Squash is done?

The squash is ready when it’s tender inside and has a golden-brown exterior. A fork should easily pierce through it.

How do I customize the spices in this recipe?

You can adjust the Italian seasoning based on your preference. Try adding garlic powder, paprika, or even chili flakes for a spicy kick!

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Squash recipe is not only quick and easy but also highly versatile. With its crispy exterior and tender inside, it makes a delightful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or cheeses to suit your tastes!