As a cooking enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for easy yet flavorful dishes that can be made in no time. One of my favorite go-to recipes for busy days is Air Fryer Squash. This simple and healthy side dish combines the natural sweetness of squash with a crispy, golden exterior that’s achieved with minimal effort. With the air fryer, you can enjoy tender squash without worrying about excessive oil, making it a lighter alternative to traditional frying.
What I love about this recipe is that it requires just a handful of ingredients and takes only a few minutes to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, Air Fryer Squash is perfect for any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of mains like grilled chicken, steak, or even pasta. Plus, the air fryer makes cooking so easy – no need to watch over the stove constantly!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Squash: Squash is the star of this dish! I usually opt for yellow squash or zucchini, as they’re tender and cook evenly in the air fryer. These varieties have a mild, slightly sweet flavor that becomes wonderfully enhanced when roasted. Their natural moisture ensures they stay soft inside while achieving that perfectly crispy texture on the outside.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds the perfect amount of richness and helps achieve that crispy texture we all love. It’s also a healthier choice compared to other oils, making it a great addition for a lighter dish. Just a light drizzle is all you need to coat the squash slices before they hit the air fryer.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle but essential flavor boost to the squash. It’s not overpowering, but it gives a savory kick that complements the natural sweetness of the squash. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little extra!
Salt and Pepper: These are the basic seasoning essentials that bring everything together. Salt enhances the natural flavor of the squash, while pepper adds a bit of spice and depth. Together, they create the perfect balance of flavors for this dish.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): While not essential, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese after cooking adds a savory and slightly nutty finishing touch. It melts beautifully on top of the squash, elevating the flavor with just a few simple shavings or a dusting of grated cheese.
Ingredients List
- 2 medium yellow squash or zucchini, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Squash
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
Start by washing and slicing your squash into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. You want the pieces to be uniform in size so they cook evenly. If you’re using zucchini, feel free to cut it the same way, as it works just as well in this recipe.
Step 2: Coat the Squash
Place the sliced squash in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then toss everything together to coat the squash evenly. If you want to add a little extra flavor, this is the perfect time to sprinkle in some herbs like thyme or oregano.
Step 3: Air Fry the Squash
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them, as this can prevent them from getting crispy. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the squash is golden and tender.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once your squash is done, remove it from the air fryer and sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese, if using. Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite meal and enjoy the crispy, tender goodness!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, make sure the squash pieces are in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy squash.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic choices, feel free to get creative with your seasoning. Try adding paprika, cumin, or even some Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your squash slices, the cooking time may vary. Keep an eye on the squash towards the end and check for crispiness and tenderness.
- Serve Immediately: Air-fried squash tastes best when served right away. The longer it sits, the less crispy it will be, so try to enjoy it fresh out of the air fryer!
FAQs
Can I use different types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow squash and zucchini are the most common choices, you can also use butternut squash or even acorn squash if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the slices.
Can I make this recipe without olive oil?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to skip the oil, you can try using a non-stick cooking spray or even roast the squash without any oil for a lighter version. However, the oil does help to achieve that crispy texture, so keep that in mind.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Can I freeze air fryer squash?
While freezing air-fried squash is possible, the texture may change once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend slightly undercooking the squash before freezing, so it doesn’t become mushy after reheating.