Air-Fryer Yellow Squash: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryer yellow squash is a quick, easy, and delicious side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and a short prep time, you can have a tasty and healthy meal on the table in less than 15 minutes. This recipe is perfect for those who want to add extra veggies to their diet or enjoy a tasty snack without the guilt of deep-frying. The air fryer ensures the squash is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a golden crust.

How to cut yellow squash for the air fryer

To cut yellow squash for the air fryer, start by selecting small-to-medium-sized squash that are fresh and in season. Rinse the squash under cold water and pat them dry.

When it comes to cutting, there are a few different methods you can use, depending on your desired outcome:

Method 1:

• Cut off both ends of the squash.
• Slice the squash in half lengthwise, from end to end.
• Cut each half into 3/4-inch thick slices.

Method 2:

• Cut off both ends of the squash.
• Slice the squash into rounds that are about 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick. This method is ideal if you want your squash to hold its shape better during cooking.

Method 3:

Cut the squash lengthwise into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices. This method creates a nice tenderness and allows the squash to cook through evenly.

Once you've cut your squash, you can proceed to season and cook it in your air fryer!

How to season yellow squash for the air fryer

Seasoning yellow squash for the air fryer is a simple process that can be done in a few different ways. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Squash

Start by rinsing the squash under cold water and patting it dry. Look for squash that is firm and has a bright colour, avoiding any with soft spots or bruises. Small to medium-sized squash is best as they tend to have more flavour and will fit better in the air fryer.

Step 2: Cut the Squash

Cut off the ends of the squash and then slice it into your desired shape and size. For air fryer yellow squash, it is recommended to slice them into rounds or lengthwise into ¼ to ½ inch-thick slices. This will help the squash cook evenly and ensure it doesn't turn mushy.

Step 3: Seasoning

Place the sliced squash in a bowl and add your desired seasoning. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with other spices and herbs such as garlic, basil, thyme, oregano, or Italian herb seasoning. You can also add olive oil or another oil/fat of your choice to help the seasoning stick and add some extra flavour. Toss the squash until the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to between 390-450°F. Place the seasoned squash slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with minimal overlap. Cook for around 12-15 minutes, tossing or shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The squash is done when it is golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside, but still tender on the inside.

Tips and Variations:

• For a crunchier texture, cut the squash into thinner slices or roll them in breadcrumbs before air frying.
• You can also experiment with different seasonings like Cajun, Creole, taco seasoning, or a touch of brown sugar.
• If you want to keep it simple, you can just season the squash with salt, pepper, and a little butter.
• For a cheesy twist, add some grated Parmesan cheese or asiago during the last few minutes of cooking.
• To add some heat, include cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer yellow squash as a side dish or add it to your favourite meals!

How long to cook yellow squash in the air fryer

Yellow squash is a tasty and healthy treat, and cooking it in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare it. The time it takes to cook yellow squash in an air fryer depends on how you cut the squash and your desired level of crispiness. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect air-fried yellow squash.

Preparation

First, select fresh, small-to-medium-sized yellow squash that is firm to the touch and has a bright colour. Avoid large squash, as they tend to have less flavour and do not fit as well in the air fryer.

Next, rinse the squash under cold water and pat it dry. You can leave the skin on! Cut off both ends of the squash, then slice it in half lengthwise. Finally, cut each half into slices about 3/4-inch thick. The slices should be thin enough to get crispy edges, but not too thin, as you don't want them to burn or turn mushy.

Seasoning

Place the squash slices in a bowl and add your desired seasonings. You can use olive oil or butter, and season with salt and pepper, garlic powder, basil, thyme, or oregano. Toss the slices to ensure they are evenly coated.

Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to between 390°F and 450°F. Place the seasoned squash slices in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with minimal overlap.

Cook the squash for about 5 minutes on each side, for a total cook time of 10 to 15 minutes. Check on the squash halfway through and toss or shake the basket to ensure even cooking. The squash is ready when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside, but still slightly firm in the middle.

Serving

Air-fried yellow squash is a versatile side dish that pairs well with various meals, such as grilled chicken, steak, or veggie burgers. It can also be served with a sauce for a tasty game-day appetizer. Enjoy!

What temperature to cook yellow squash in the air fryer

The ideal temperature to cook yellow squash in an air fryer is between 390°F and 450°F.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. It doesn't take long to preheat, but it's worth noting that you'll likely be ready to add your squash before the air fryer is done preheating. That's fine—just get the squash in there as quickly as you can so you can move on to something else.

Air Fry the Squash

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned squash slices in the basket and set the temperature to 390°F. Cook the squash slices for approximately five minutes on each side. Depending on your air fryer type, cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on the squash to avoid burning.

Alternatively, you can cook the squash at 400°F for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.

If you're using a higher temperature of 450°F, cook the squash for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they are nicely browned but still firm.

Tips for Cooking Yellow Squash in an Air Fryer

• Choose small to medium-sized yellow squash as larger squash tend to have less flavour and won't fit in the air fryer as well.
• Cut the squash into slices between 1/4 and 1/2 inch thick. Thicker slices will help the squash maintain its shape while cooking and achieve that perfect tenderness.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. The hot air needs room to circulate, so cook the squash in batches if necessary.
• For extra crispy edges and a caramelized top, cut the squash into thin slices or roll them in breadcrumbs.

What to serve with air-fried yellow squash

Air-fried yellow squash is a quick, easy, and delicious side dish. It can be served in a variety of ways, including:

• As a simple side dish to any meal.
• Added to pasta sauce or curry.
• Served cold over mixed greens or added to a pasta salad.
• As part of a summer dinner, paired with air fryer hot dogs, burgers, baked beans, and a caprese salad.
• Served with air fryer chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and air fryer tater tots.

Additionally, the squash can be customised with different seasonings, such as Cajun or Creole spices, taco seasoning, brown sugar, Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.

Frequently asked questions