Cody Casey
Air fryers are a convenient, healthy way to cook, and they can be used to make a variety of pattypan squash recipes. This summer vegetable can be steamed, sautéed, grilled, or used in soups, stews, or curries. Air-fried pattypan squash can be a tasty side dish, a component of a main course, or even part of a hearty breakfast hash.
How to Cook Patty Pan Squash in an Air Fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preheat temperature | 190 deg C / 375 F or 400 F |
| Patty pan preparation | Cut into small wedges or slices, remove seeds |
| Patty pan seasoning | Salt, olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, feta cheese, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, parsley |
| Air fryer basket | Layer without overlapping |
| Cooking time | 10-15 minutes or until golden brown |
| Leftovers | Refrigerate for up to 5 days |
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What You'll Learn
Patty pan squash seasoning
When it comes to seasoning patty pan squash, there are a variety of herbs and spices that can be used to enhance its flavour. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Salt and Pepper
A classic combination of salt and pepper is a simple yet effective way to season patty pan squash. Sprinkle salt over the squash before placing it in the air fryer, as this will help draw out excess moisture and intensify the flavour. Black pepper can then be added to taste, providing a sharp, pungent edge to the dish.
Olive Oil
Coating the patty pan squash in olive oil before air frying will help the seasonings stick to the vegetable, ensuring an even distribution of flavour. Olive oil also has a lower smoke point than other oils, which is ideal for air frying as it means the oil can heat to a high temperature without smoking.
Garlic
Minced, powdered, or in clove form, garlic is a versatile seasoning that can be added to patty pan squash for a sharp, savoury kick. It is a key ingredient in many patty pan squash recipes, adding a distinctive, pungent flavour.
Herbs
Fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, thyme, and rosemary can be added to patty pan squash for a fragrant, summery flavour. These herbs are commonly used in patty pan squash recipes, with their aromatic qualities complementing the vegetable's natural sweetness.
Lemon
Lemon juice can be added to patty pan squash to introduce a tangy, zesty element to the dish. It is a great way to add a burst of freshness to the flavour profile, especially when combined with herbs.
Spices
For those who like their food with a bit of heat, spices such as red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning can be added to patty pan squash for a spicy kick. These spices will provide a warm, pungent edge to the dish, creating a memorable flavour sensation.
Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can get creative and experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect combination!
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Air fryer temperature and timing
When preparing to cook pattypan squash in an air fryer, it is important to preheat the appliance. Set the temperature to 190°C (375°F) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
If you are vegetarian, you may use butter for cooking instead of olive oil. You can also smear the squash slices with herbs like garlic powder, chili powder, and feta cheese. Lemon juice is a great addition for a tangy flavor. First, cut the squash into small wedges or slices about 1/2-inch thick. Then, in a mixing bowl, toss the wedges with parsley, salt, and oil, or with the herbs and butter of your choice. Ensure that the wedges are evenly coated.
Now, you can place the squash in the air fryer. Layer the wedges in the air fryer basket without overlapping them. Set the temperature to 190°C (375°F) and air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. If you like your squash with a crunch, you may need to adjust the timing accordingly.
If you are cooking multiple batches, keep the cooked pieces warm in the oven at 200°F while you finish preparing the remaining batches.
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Patty pan squash preparation
Patty pan squash, also known as custard marrow, is a variety of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) and is a relative of zucchini and yellow summer squash. They come in yellow, light green, dark green, orange, white and multicoloured varieties, and can be harvested when they are as small as a ping pong ball or as large as a softball. Patty pan squash is low in calories and delivers a good dose of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fibre.
Step 1:
Select a fresh patty pan squash that is firm to the touch and bright in colour. Avoid squash that is bruised, damaged, or has soft spots.
Step 2:
Rinse the squash thoroughly under cold water and then pat it dry.
Step 3:
Cut the squash into even slices or wedges. Thicker slices will help ensure the squash is tender but not mushy, and that the edges are browned without overcooking the inside. The slices should be around 2-3mm thick, and the goal is to have similarly-sized pieces so that they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Step 4:
Place the squash slices in a large bowl and add oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, chilli powder, or Italian seasoning. Toss the bowl so that the seasoning is spread evenly across each slice.
Step 5:
Preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 375-400°F.
Step 6:
Place the seasoned squash slices in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. If your air fryer comes with a rack, you can place the rack inside the basket and put the squash on top of the rack to help them crisp up.
Step 7:
Cook the squash for 10-15 minutes, stirring or rearranging halfway through. Keep an eye on the squash to avoid burning and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Step 8:
Once the squash is golden brown, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Storage and Reheating:
Leftover cooked patty pan squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat, a microwave, or an oven set to 350°F until warmed through.
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Air fryer basket vs rack
To cook pattypan squash in an air fryer, you'll first need to preheat the fryer to 400°F. Then, prepare the squash by slicing it and removing the seeds. You can also season the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Place the squash in the air fryer basket or on the rack, ensuring it's not overfilled, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
Now, when it comes to choosing between an air fryer basket and an air fryer rack, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, let's understand the differences between the two. Air fryer baskets are typically smaller and cylindrical, with holes to allow air circulation, and come with a convenient handle for shaking or tossing food. On the other hand, air fryer racks are found in oven-style air fryers, which are larger, rectangular, and resemble toaster ovens. These racks are adjustable and often come with multiple levels, allowing you to cook larger quantities and different types of food simultaneously.
One of the main advantages of using an air fryer basket is the faster cooking time. Due to its smaller size, the basket tends to cook food a few minutes quicker than an oven-style air fryer with racks. This makes it ideal for quick snacks or smaller portions. Additionally, the handle on the basket allows for easy shaking or tossing of food, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
On the other hand, oven-style air fryers with racks offer more cooking space and versatility. The multiple racks provide the ability to cook various foods simultaneously and accommodate larger quantities. These air fryers are also great for replacing multiple cooking appliances, as they can be used for several different cooking methods beyond just air frying. However, due to their larger cooking chamber, they may require slightly longer cooking times and take up more counter space.
Both options have their advantages depending on your specific needs. If you're looking for quick cooking times and easy food handling, the air fryer basket might be your preferred choice. On the other hand, if you often cook large quantities or want the flexibility to cook different foods at once, the air fryer rack in an oven-style air fryer could be the better option. Additionally, consider your counter space and whether you prioritize having multiple cooking options available.
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Storing and reheating
Leftover cooked pattypan squash can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 to 5 days. If you plan to use the leftovers beyond this timeframe, you can freeze the cooked squash in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 6 months.
When it comes to reheating, some sources suggest that the microwave will not do justice to the texture of the squash, making it mushy. Instead, it is recommended to reheat in a skillet over medium heat, in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, or in an air fryer, which some people prefer for reheating. Remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if you're using frozen squash.
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Frequently asked questions
Preheat your air fryer to between 375°F and 400°F.
Cook the pattypan squash for 10-15 minutes.
Cut the squash into evenly sized slices, wedges, or cubes. If there are seeds, remove them. Then, season with salt, pepper, and oil, and any other herbs or spices you like.
Large pattypan squash can become mushy during cooking due to their larger seeds and higher water content. It is best to opt for smaller or medium-sized squash, or cut thicker slices to avoid this.
Pattypan squash is a versatile side dish. It goes well with grilled recipes, scrambled eggs, soups, salads, or pasta.
