Air-Frying Squash: How Long Does It Take?

Air fryer squash is a quick and easy dish to prepare. Depending on the type of squash, the thickness of the slices, and the desired level of browning, cooking times can vary from 5 to 23 minutes. For example, yellow squash and zucchini are recommended to be cooked for 8 to 10 minutes, while butternut squash may take up to 23 minutes. To ensure even cooking, it is important to allow sufficient airflow around each piece of squash, which may involve tossing or rearranging the pieces during the cooking process.

Squash cooking time in an air fryer

When cooking squash in an air fryer, it is important to allow as much airflow to each piece as possible. This can be achieved by spreading the squash evenly in the basket and trying to keep the slices in a single layer. You may need to toss the squash halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

The cooking time for squash in an air fryer can range from 5 minutes to 15 minutes, depending on the type of squash and the desired level of doneness. It is important to keep an eye on the squash and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Some recipes recommend cooking squash for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they are nicely browned but still firm. Others suggest cooking for 13 to 15 minutes, tossing the squash about halfway through.

How to prepare squash for an air fryer

To prepare squash in an air fryer, start by cutting the squash into slices between 1/4" and 1/2" in size. A mandolin can help you achieve the perfect cut. Then, add the squash to the air fryer basket, ensuring an even spread with minimal overlapping to allow for maximum airflow.

Cooking times will vary depending on the type of squash and your desired level of doneness. For summer squash or yellow squash, cook for 8 to 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, tossing the squash halfway through. Check the squash after 5 minutes; it should be browned in places but still a bit softened in the middle. If it needs more time, cook in 2-3 minute intervals until done to your liking.

For butternut squash, air fry at 340 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 23 minutes, shaking the basket a few times during cooking. Once the squash is fork-tender and golden, drizzle with olive oil and toss with a spice mixture of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne, salt, and brown sugar. Return to the air fryer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.

How to tell when squash is cooked

Cooking times for squash in an air fryer vary depending on the type of squash and the size of the slices. For example, butternut squash should be cooked at 340F for 20 to 23 minutes, shaking the air fryer basket a few times until the squash is fork-tender and golden. Yellow squash should be cooked for 12 to 15 minutes, or until nicely browned but still firm.

To get the best results, try to spread the squash out evenly in the air fryer basket, staggering the pieces so that no two slices are stuck together. This will allow more airflow to reach each piece, resulting in better browning. You can also toss the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking.

You'll know the squash is cooked when it is fork-tender and golden, or nicely browned but still firm.

Best spices to use with air fryer squash

Squash is cooked in an air fryer for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the type of squash and the desired level of browning. It is important to allow as much airflow as possible to each piece of squash, so try to spread them evenly in the basket. You may need to toss the squash halfway through the cooking time.

There are many different spices that can be used to season air fryer squash. A simple combination of garlic, salt, and pepper is a great place to start. You can use minced garlic or garlic powder, depending on your preference. If you want to add some heat, cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes are a great option. For an extra kick, try adding onion powder as well.

If you're feeling creative, you can experiment with other herbs and spices. Dried basil, dill, oregano, rosemary, Italian seasoning, or thyme will add a nice herbal flavour to the dish. You can also try using different types of oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, to enhance the flavour of the spices.

For a sweet and savoury dish, a small amount of brown sugar can be added to the spice mixture. This will elevate the flavours and give the squash a unique taste. You can also try using vegetable broth, soy sauce, or tamari instead of oil to add a different dimension to the dish. Just be sure to reduce or eliminate any added salt if using soy sauce or tamari.

Finally, don't forget to garnish your air fryer squash with fresh herbs before serving. Parsley, basil, cilantro, or dill would all be great choices to add a touch of freshness to the dish.

What to serve with air fryer squash

Air fryer squash is a quick and easy side dish that goes well with a variety of main courses. It can be served hot or cold, and is a great addition to a summer meal or a 4th of July celebration.

If you're serving air fryer squash as a side, it goes well with air fryer chicken breasts, ham, or pork tenderloin. It's also a tasty accompaniment to air fryer eggplant, or even chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and tater tots. For a vegan option, serve it with vegan parmesan.

Air fryer squash is also delicious in a pasta sauce or curry, or served cold over mixed greens or in a pasta salad. For a winter meal, try serving it with green beans with cranberries and almonds, smashed potatoes, or a kale, apple and cranberry salad.

To cook air fryer squash, cut the squash into slices between 1/4" and 1/2" thick. Place the slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer, with as much space around each slice as possible to allow for even cooking. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, tossing the slices halfway through. The squash is ready when it is nicely browned but still firm.

Frequently asked questions