Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash recipe offers a quick and healthy way to enjoy tender yellow squash rounds coated in a flavorful, crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. Perfectly air-fried to golden perfection, these bites are served with a tangy homemade dipping sauce, making them a delightful snack or side dish in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Yellow Squash
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Breading Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste (divided between flour and breadcrumbs)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Cooking
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or hot sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the squash cooks evenly and achieves a crispy exterior right from the start.
- Prepare Your Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: combine flour, salt, and pepper in the first; beat eggs in the second; mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third for a flavorful coating.
- Bread the Squash: Dip each yellow squash slice first into the flour mixture, then the beaten eggs, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thorough and even coating for maximum crispiness.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd to promote even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crunch.
- Air Fry the Squash: Cook the breaded slices for 8-10 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through. Look for a golden brown color and tender texture indicating they’re done; adjust time based on your air fryer’s performance.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the squash cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika or hot sauce in a small bowl until smooth and well combined for a delicious dip.
- Serve: Remove the crispy yellow squash from the air fryer, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot alongside the prepared dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer or side.
Notes
- For even crispier results, make sure the squash slices are patted dry before breading.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
- Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- The dipping sauce can be customized with hot sauce or smoked paprika based on your spice preference.
- Leftover squash can be reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to regain crispiness.
