If you’re looking for a quick, delicious way to enjoy fresh squash, this Easy Air Fryer Squash recipe is just what you need.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform simple squash into a crispy, golden-brown dish bursting with flavor.
The air fryer locks in the natural sweetness of the squash while giving it a lightly crisp texture on the outside, perfect for those who want a healthy side dish or snack without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
This recipe is great for busy weeknights, effortless meal prepping, or whenever you need a nutritious, flavorful addition to your meals.
No complicated steps, just perfectly cooked squash in under 15 minutes!
Air Fryer Squash Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tbsp paprika optional for color
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan optional for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
- Prepare the squash: Wash the squash, trim the ends, and slice it into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Season the squash: In a mixing bowl, toss the squash slices with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all slices are evenly coated.
- Air fry the squash: Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook: Air fry the squash for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The squash should be golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
- Optional topping: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the squash during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish.
- Serve: Remove the squash from the air fryer and serve immediately, garnished with extra salt or Parmesan if desired.
Video
Notes
- Batch cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to ensure even crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Extra crispiness: For crispier squash, pat the slices dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
How About Alternatives?
For this Easy Air Fryer Squash Recipe, you can easily swap out some ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. If you don’t have yellow squash, zucchini is a great alternative, as it offers a similar texture and flavor.
For a different taste, try using butternut squash or even thinly sliced sweet potatoes (have you tried making crispy chips salad with more nutritive value). Instead of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Garlic powder can be replaced with onion powder, or you can use fresh minced garlic for a stronger taste.
If you want a cheesy finish but need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Finally, feel free to experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
The Bottom Line
In just a few easy steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked squash that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all thanks to your air fryer.
It is a simple recipe that proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated.
With minimal prep and ingredients, you’ll have a versatile, flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost any meal.