Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash recipe offers a deliciously crunchy and healthy snack or side dish. Coated in a seasoned panko and Parmesan crust, these yellow squash rounds are air fried to golden perfection and served with a tangy homemade dipping sauce, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Yellow Squash
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or hot sauce (optional)
Other
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking the yellow squash rounds to a crispy finish.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, combine flour with salt and pepper. Beat eggs in the second bowl. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
- Coat Squash Slices: Dip each yellow squash slice first into the flour mixture for a light coating, then into the beaten eggs to moisten, and finally press it thoroughly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure an even and crispy crust.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the breaded squash slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd for even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to promote crispiness.
- Air Fry the Squash: Cook the squash rounds for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until they turn golden brown and tender. Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model if needed.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While the squash cooks, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika or hot sauce in a small bowl until smooth, creating a flavorful dipping sauce to accompany the crispy squash.
- Serve: Once done, transfer the crispy yellow squash rounds to a serving plate, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot alongside the prepared dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, avoid overlapping the squash slices in the air fryer basket.
- Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mix to suit your taste preference.
- Use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative for the dipping sauce.
- To make it spicier, add hot sauce in the breadcrumb mix or increase the smoked paprika in the dipping sauce.
- Cook times may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer, so keep an eye during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
