One of my favorite memories is of a weekend visit to my grandmother’s house, where we spent the day preparing a feast that felt like a cozy hug from the inside out. We were all in high spirits, and the kitchen was alive with chatter and laughter. I had the honor of helping with the squash. As a kid, I marveled at the transformation of humble ingredients into something magical. My grandmother taught me that the true beauty of cooking lies in the details—the way you season, the care you take in each step, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.
Now, as an adult, I find that the same principles apply when I prepare meals for my family. This Air Fryer Crispy Squash recipe is a modern nod to those cherished moments. It’s incredibly easy to make, and the air fryer does all the hard work for you. The squash turns out delightfully crisp, with a subtle seasoning that enhances its natural sweetness. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack when you need a break from more complex dishes.
Cooking this squash brings back those warm memories and makes me feel connected to my roots. The air fryer method is a great way to enjoy crispy, golden squash with less oil, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a busy family or just indulging in a tasty treat for yourself, this recipe will transport you to a simpler, more joyful time.
So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! You’ll be surprised at how such a simple dish can bring so much happiness to your table.
Making Air Fried Crispy Squash
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Ingredients
- 1 yellow squash
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic seasoning
- 1/8 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion seasoning
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Directions
- Begin by slicing the yellow squash into rounds that are 1/4-inch thick, removing the ends.
- Place the squash slices in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, garlic seasoning, and onion seasoning.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg with the milk until well combined.
- Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a third bowl.
- Take each squash slice and first coat it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and then coat it with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Once cooked, remove the slices from the air fryer and serve immediately. Repeat the process with any remaining slices.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover crispy squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore crispiness before serving.
Cooking Tips
For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Ensure the squash slices are evenly coated with breadcrumbs for a consistent crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy squash as a delightful side dish with your favorite dipping sauces or as a healthy snack. It pairs well with a fresh salad or a light dip.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative. You can also use almond flour for a different texture.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the breadcrumbs for a seasonal twist. In summer, add some fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the flour mixture for a burst of flavor.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs and milk. To make it allergen-friendly, use dairy-free milk and an egg substitute, such as a flax egg or chia egg.
FAQ:
How do I get the squash slices to be extra crispy?
Make sure to coat the squash slices thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs and use a single layer in the air fryer to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, other vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes can be used. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of vegetable.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the squash slices and coat them in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. For best results, cook them just before serving.
What is the best way to reheat the crispy squash?
Reheat the squash in the air fryer or oven to maintain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Can I freeze the crispy squash?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked squash slices. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from the freezer in the air fryer or oven.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture to give the squash a spicy kick.
Air Fryer Crispy Squash
Ingredients
- 1 yellow squash
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic seasoning
- 1/8 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion seasoning
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cut the yellow squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds, trimming off the ends. Discard the ends.
- Place the squash slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Mix to ensure even seasoning.
- In one bowl, combine the flour with garlic seasoning and onion seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
- In another bowl, pour in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each squash slice first in the flour mixture, making sure it's fully covered. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere as much as possible.
- Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. Continue with the remaining slices.
- Enjoy your crispy squash! 🌟
