Air-Frying Fresh Squash: Quick, Easy, And Healthy?

Yes, you can fry fresh squash in an air fryer. This is a quick and easy way to cook squash, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish. It's a healthy, delicious, and simple side dish that works well with a variety of main courses.

How to cut the squash

Firstly, select small to medium-sized squash. This is because larger squashes tend to have less flavour and are harder to fit in the air fryer.

Next, cut off both ends of the squash. Then, slice the squash in half, lengthwise, from end to end. You can now cut each half into slices. The thickness of these slices is up to you, but it is recommended to keep them between 1/4 and 1/2 an inch thick. If you want your squash to be slightly firmer, opt for the thicker end of this range.

Finally, cut each slice into chunks. For butternut squash, cut into 1-inch pieces. For delicata squash, half-moon shapes are a good option.

How to season the squash

How to Season Squash in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Choosing Your Squash

When selecting a squash to cook in an air fryer, opt for a small to medium-sized summer squash, such as yellow squash or zucchini. Larger squashes tend to have less flavour and may not fit as well in the air fryer.

Step 2: Seasoning Options

There are endless options for seasoning your squash. For a simple option, season with salt and pepper, or use infused olive oils for extra flavour. For a sweet twist, add a sprinkle of brown sugar and a pat of butter to your squash once it's cooked.

For a more savoury option, try a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. You can also add Italian herbs, Herbs de Provence, or a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.

Step 3: Preparing the Squash

Preheat your air fryer to between 390 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut off each end of the squash and slice in half lengthwise. Scoop out any seeds, then cut the squash into slices about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 4: Adding the Seasoning

Place the squash slices in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or your chosen seasonings, until evenly coated. You can also add the seasoning directly to the air fryer basket, but you may lose some through the holes.

Step 5: Cooking the Squash

Place the seasoned squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer, or with slight overlap if necessary. Air fry at your chosen temperature for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring or flipping halfway through, until the squash is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serving Suggestions

Air fryer squash makes a delicious and healthy side dish. Serve it with your favourite protein, such as roasted chicken or baked pork chops, or add it to a salad or bowl with other veggies and protein.

You can also get creative with your toppings. Try adding grated Parmesan cheese or Asiago in the last few minutes of cooking, or spice it up with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

How to cook the squash

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 400°F or 450°F. If you are using a different brand of air fryer, you may need to adjust the temperature and cooking time slightly.

Next, prepare the squash by washing and chopping off the ends. Cut the squash into ¼-1/2” slices or rounds. Try to keep the slices consistent in thickness to ensure even cooking.

Then, place the squash slices into a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. You can also add other seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or dried herbs such as basil and oregano. Toss the squash to coat it evenly with the oil and seasonings.

Now, transfer the squash to the air fryer basket. Try to arrange the squash in a single layer, with minimal overlapping, to allow for even cooking and browning.

Cook the squash for 8-10 minutes at 400°F or 12-14 minutes at 450°F. Check on the squash halfway through the cooking time and toss or flip the slices for even cooking. The squash is done when it is golden brown and crispy or lightly browned and slightly softened, depending on your preference.

Finally, serve the squash immediately. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or vegan parmesan, or enjoy it as is!

Some tips to keep in mind:

• Choose small to medium-sized squash as they tend to have more flavor and fit better in the air fryer.
• Cut the squash slices between ¼ and ½ inch thick to get the perfect tenderness without being too mushy.
• Air fry the squash in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• For a crunchy coating, try a southern fried squash recipe or add grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

How to store leftover squash

If you have leftover squash, it's important to store it correctly to keep it fresh. Here's a detailed guide on how to store leftover squash:

Storing Cooked Squash:

If you have cooked squash leftovers, it's best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cooked squash will generally last for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. However, if the squash has been pureed, it can be stored for up to 3 to 4 days.

Storing Cut Squash:

If your squash is cut but not cooked, it's best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Cut squash can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Freezing Squash:

Squash can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Cut the squash into cubes, spread them on a lined baking sheet, and freeze them solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen squash can be stored for up to a year.

Storing Different Types of Squash:

The storage method may vary depending on the type of squash. Winter squash, such as butternut squash, can be stored at room temperature for 2 to 3 months. On the other hand, summer squash, including zucchini and yellow squash, should be stored in the refrigerator and will last for 2 to 4 days.

Squash Storage Don'ts:

Avoid storing squash in the fridge if it is uncut or uncooked, as this can accelerate spoilage and affect its texture. Additionally, avoid storing squash with fruits that produce ethylene gas, such as apples and bananas, as this can cause the squash to rot prematurely.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your leftover squash stays fresh and edible for as long as possible.

What to serve with the squash

Yes, you can fry fresh squash in an air fryer. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

As a Side Dish

Air-fried squash can be served as a simple side dish to accompany a variety of meals. It can be paired with proteins such as chicken, pork, or tofu, and other sides like mac and cheese, tater tots, or roasted vegetables.

In a Salad

Air-fried squash can be served cold over mixed greens or added to a pasta salad.

With a Sauce

Air-fried squash can be added to a sauce, such as a marinara sauce, curry, or stew, and served over rice or with bread. It can also be tossed with vegan pesto and served over pasta.

In a Sandwich

Fried squash can be served in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato.

With a Dipping Sauce

Fried squash can be served with a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or a spicy aioli.

Frequently asked questions