Frying Squash In An Air Fryer: Time And Temperature Guide

Air fryer squash is a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook the vegetable. It is a healthy side dish that can be prepared in less than 20 minutes and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of squash and the brand of air fryer being used.

How to cut squash for the air fryer

To cut squash for the air fryer, start by washing your squash. Next, trim off both ends of the squash. Then, cut the squash into slices. The thickness of the slices will depend on how crispy you want your squash to be—thinner slices will be crispier. Thicker slices, around 1/4 to 1/2 an inch, will be less crispy but will hold their shape better. You can also cut the squash in half lengthwise first, and then cut each half into slices.

Try to cut your squash into evenly sized slices so that they cook evenly in the air fryer. A mandolin can help you achieve evenly sized slices.

How to season squash for the air fryer

Now that you know how long to fry your squash in an air fryer, it's time to season it! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to season squash for the air fryer:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized summer squash (about 1 pound or 500g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or water/broth for an oil-free option)
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh cracked pepper to taste
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to 450°F or 240°C, or the highest setting if your air fryer doesn't go that high.
• Wash the summer squash and trim off the ends.
• Cut the squash into rounds or slices between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick. Slightly thicker slices will help the squash maintain its shape while cooking.
• Place the cut squash in a bowl.
• Add the olive oil, water, or broth, and your desired seasonings. You can use the measurements above as a guide, or adjust to your taste preferences. Mix well to combine.
• Add the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket, ensuring the pieces are in a single layer and not overlapping or sticking together. This will allow for even cooking and better browning.
• Cook the squash for about 12 to 14 minutes, or until they are browned and still slightly firm.
• For even cooking, consider stopping the air fryer halfway through cooking (around the 8-minute mark) and rearranging the squash, moving the outer pieces to the centre and vice versa.
• Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious, seasoned air-fried squash!

Tips:

• You can use a variety of seasonings for your squash. Italian herbs or Herbs de Provence would be excellent choices.
• If using oil, note that squash already has a high water content, so don't add too much, as it can make the squash soggy.
• If you're cooking zucchini along with yellow squash, you can follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions.
• For a simple side dish, serve the air-fried squash as-is. Alternatively, add it to pasta sauce, pair it with zucchini, or serve it cold over mixed greens for a refreshing salad.

How to serve air-fried squash

Air-fried squash is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve air-fried squash:

As a Side Dish

Air-fried squash makes a great side dish for a variety of meals. It can be served as is, or garnished with fresh herbs, vegan parmesan, or Italian seasoning. You can also sprinkle a touch of brown sugar on top for added sweetness.

With a Sauce

Air-fried squash goes well with various sauces. Try serving it with a marinara sauce, curry, or stew. You can also add it to a pasta sauce or toss it with vegan pesto and serve it over pasta. For a tasty game-day appetizer, serve the squash with a comeback sauce.

In a Salad

Air-fried squash can be served cold over mixed greens or added to a pasta salad. It's a great way to use up any leftovers, as the squash will hold its shape better when served cold.

With a Protein

Air-fried squash pairs well with a variety of proteins. Try serving it with roasted chicken, crispy baked pork chops, or air fryer chicken breasts. You can also add it to scrambled eggs for a healthy breakfast side.

As a Snack

Air-fried squash makes a delicious and healthy snack. You can even bread the squash before air-frying for an extra crispy and crunchy texture.

How to store and reheat leftover air-fried squash

Storing leftover air-fried squash is easy. Simply place the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

If you're looking to freeze your leftovers, it's best to freeze them uncooked. To do this, coat your squash slices with cornmeal and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least an hour, or until firm, and then transfer the slices to a freezer bag. They will keep for up to six months. When you're ready to cook, spray the frozen slices with oil and follow the usual cooking instructions, adding three to four minutes to the cooking time.

When it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best bet to restore the original crispiness of your leftover squash. Set your air fryer to 350°F/177°C and cook the squash for about five minutes. You can also use an oven or toaster oven to reheat, but the air fryer will produce the best results.

If you're short on time, you can quickly reheat your leftover squash on the stovetop. Choose a skillet or frying pan that can accommodate your squash in a single layer. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil to the pan over medium heat. Place the squash in the pan in a single layer and sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings. Sauté for about five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is warmed through. Adjust the cooking time depending on your desired level of firmness.

Now you know how to store and reheat your leftover air-fried squash! Enjoy your delicious and crispy squash as a side or snack.

How to choose the best oil for air-fried squash

Air-fried squash is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that can be served as a simple side or added to a pasta sauce. When choosing the best oil for air-fried squash, there are several factors to consider, such as flavour, smoke point, and health benefits. Here are some tips to help you select the best oil for your air-fried squash:

Flavour

The type of oil you choose can significantly impact the flavour of your dish. For a neutral flavour that lets the natural taste of the squash shine through, consider using oils such as avocado oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. If you prefer a more robust flavour, extra virgin olive oil or garlic-infused olive oil can add a fruity or garlicky note to your dish.

Smoke Point

Smoke point refers to the temperature at which an oil starts to burn and smoke. When cooking with an air fryer, it is essential to choose an oil with a high smoke point to prevent it from smoking and affecting the taste of your food. Oils with high smoke points include avocado oil, peanut oil, and refined olive oil.

Health Benefits

Different oils offer various health benefits. For instance, olive oil is known for its healthy fats and antioxidants, while avocado oil is rich in vitamins and minerals. If you are looking for a heart-healthy option, avocado oil and olive oil are good choices as they are high in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, vegetable oil and canola oil are neutral in flavour and low in saturated fat, making them versatile and healthy options.

Amount of Oil

When air-frying squash, it is crucial to use the right amount of oil. Using too much oil can make your squash soggy, while using too little may result in uneven cooking. A light coating of oil is usually sufficient, and you can always add more if needed.

Oil Alternatives

If you prefer to avoid oil altogether, there are alternatives you can use. Water or broth can be used instead of oil to coat your squash before air frying. However, keep in mind that squash already has a high water content, so adding too much liquid can make it soggy.

Frequently asked questions