Air-Fried Squash: Quick, Crispy, And Healthy!

Air fryer fried squash is a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook the vegetable. It is healthier than traditional frying methods, as less oil is needed, and it is also faster than baking. The result is a crispy exterior with a soft interior, and it can be served as a side dish or added to pasta sauce or curry. The best way to store any leftover squash is to place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How to cut the squash

To make delicious fried squash in an air fryer, you'll need to start by cutting your squash. Here's a detailed guide on how to do this:

Select small to medium-sized summer squash, such as yellow squash or zucchini. These varieties tend to be more flavourful and fit better in the air fryer.

Wash the squash and cut off each end. You can cut the squash into either rounds or lengthwise slices, aiming for a thickness between 1/4 and 1/2 an inch. Thicker slices help prevent the squash from becoming mushy, ensuring a tender texture.

If you're making a breaded fried squash, cut the squash into 1/2-inch slices. This thickness will ensure the breading has time to brown without the centres becoming overcooked.

A mandolin can be useful for achieving even slices every time. Try to keep the slices consistent in size to ensure even cooking.

Once you've cut your squash, you can proceed to the next steps of coating and air-frying!

How to season the squash

To season the squash, you can use a variety of herbs and spices. Here are some options and methods to try:

Seasoning Ideas:

• Salt and pepper: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the squash before air frying, and add more after cooking if desired.
• Vegetable seasoning: Use a salt-free vegetable seasoning blend to control the saltiness.
• Garlic: Use garlic-infused olive oil, or add minced garlic or garlic powder to the squash before cooking.
• Italian seasoning: Try adding Italian seasoning to the squash for extra flavor.
• Herbs: Garnish the cooked squash with fresh herbs such as parsley.
• Spices: Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick to your dish.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on the squash during the last few minutes of cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually between 350-400°F (180-200°C).
• Prepare the squash by washing and cutting off the ends. Cut the squash into slices or rounds between 1/4-1/2 inch (0.6-1.3 cm) thick.
• Place the cut squash in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil or another cooking oil of your choice. You can also use water or broth for an oil-free option, but be careful not to add too much liquid as squash already has a high water content.
• Add your desired seasonings to the bowl and toss the squash to coat it evenly. You can also add the squash directly to the air fryer basket and season it there, but you may lose some of the seasoning through the holes in the basket.
• Place the seasoned squash in the air fryer basket, ensuring a single layer with minimal overlapping to allow for even cooking.
• Cook the squash for 8-15 minutes, depending on the thickness and your desired level of doneness. For best results, check and toss the squash halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
• Once the squash is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh herbs or vegan parmesan, or enjoy it as is.

How to cook the squash

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. If you want to save time, you can start preparing the squash while the air fryer is preheating.

Next, prepare the squash by washing it and chopping off the ends. You can use a mandolin to cut the squash into even slices, or you can carefully cut it by hand. The slices should be between 1/4 and 1/2-inch thick. Thicker slices will help ensure the squash is tender but not mushy.

Now, place the cut squash into a small bowl and drizzle with olive oil. You can also add other seasonings to the bowl at this point, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning. Toss or brush the squash until it is evenly coated.

Once the squash is prepared, it's time to add it to the air fryer basket. Try to arrange the squash in a single layer, with as little overlap as possible. This will allow hot air to circulate around each piece and ensure even cooking.

Cook the squash for around 8 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your slices and the power of your air fryer. Keep an eye on the squash and toss or turn it halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

Finally, remove the squash from the air fryer when it is golden brown and crispy. Season with additional salt and pepper, if desired, and serve immediately.

You can also get creative with your seasonings and toppings. Try adding some grated Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for a unique flavour profile.

How to store leftovers

Firstly, it is important to note that fried food should not be stored in the refrigerator, as the humid atmosphere will cause the food to become soggy. Instead, it is recommended to cool the fried squash completely on the counter and then store it in an airtight container in the freezer. This will help retain the crispiness of the fried food.

If you must store leftovers in the refrigerator, ensure that the fried squash has cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container. To prevent sogginess, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture. The food will last three to five days this way.

When reheating fried squash, avoid using a microwave as it can make the food soggy. Instead, place the food in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat it uncovered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additionally, when transporting fried food, it is crucial to drain all excess oil and allow the food to cool completely. Choose a ventilated container, such as a paper or cardboard box, to allow moisture to escape. Placing the fried squash on a paper towel will also help absorb any excess moisture.

What oil to use

The type of oil you use to make fried squash in an air fryer is a matter of personal preference. However, some recommended oils include extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil. You can also use regular olive oil, garlic-infused olive oil, or vegetable oil.

When preparing the squash, you will need to add oil to a bowl with the squash and other seasonings, and toss or brush the mixture to coat the squash evenly. The amount of oil used can vary, but it is generally around 1 tablespoon per medium-sized squash, or 3 tablespoons for three medium squash.

It is important to note that squash tends to soak up excess oil, so using too much oil may result in a heavier, oilier dish. Additionally, when adding the oil and seasonings to the squash, it is recommended to use a bowl rather than adding them directly to the air fryer basket, as some of the oil may drip through the holes in the basket.

Frequently asked questions