Yellow squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be transformed into delightful dishes using an air fryer. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a side dish, or a main course, the air fryer can help you create flavorful meals with ease. In this article, we’ll explore 27 delicious yellow squash air fryer recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Air frying has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its ability to produce crispy and delicious food with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This cooking technique utilizes hot air to circulate around the food, creating a crispy outer layer while maintaining a tender interior. Yellow squash, with its mild flavor and tender texture, is perfectly suited for air frying.
Yellow squash is a type of summer squash that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, along with zucchini and pumpkin. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to any meal. When cooked in an air fryer, yellow squash develops a delicious caramelized exterior while remaining tender on the inside.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of yellow squash air fryer recipes, ranging from simple snacks to hearty main courses. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, you’re sure to find a recipe that suits your tastes and preferences.
Top 27 Yellow Squash Air Fryer Recipes
1. Crispy Yellow Squash Fries
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each squash strip into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Place the coated squash strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray the squash strips with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
2. Parmesan Roasted Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and golden brown.
- Serve as a delicious side dish to your favorite meal.
3. Stuffed Yellow Squash Boats
Ingredients
- 4 yellow squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each halved yellow squash with the quinoa mixture, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed squash boats in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve hot as a nutritious and flavorful main dish.
4. Garlic Parmesan Yellow Squash Chips
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced yellow squash with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve as a tasty and nutritious snack or appetizer.
5. Lemon Herb Grilled Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash in the lemon herb marinade until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly charred.
- Serve as a flavorful side dish or add to salads for a burst of freshness.
6. Crispy Parmesan Yellow Squash Rounds
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each yellow squash round into the Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
- Place the coated squash rounds in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray the squash rounds with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the rounds are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
7. Mediterranean Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 4 yellow squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked couscous
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a bowl, combine cooked couscous, diced cucumber, chopped Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each halved yellow squash with the couscous mixture, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed squash boats in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve hot as a flavorful and satisfying main dish.
8. Spicy Roasted Yellow Squash Wedges
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the yellow squash wedges with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly charred.
- Serve hot as a spicy and flavorful side dish or snack.
9. Cheesy Yellow Squash Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash with olive oil, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Transfer the squash mixture to an air fryer-safe baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs over the top of the squash mixture.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot as a delicious and comforting casserole dish.
10. Herb-Roasted Yellow Squash And Zucchini
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash and zucchini with olive oil, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash and zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Serve hot as a flavorful and aromatic side dish.
11. Crispy Yellow Squash Chips With Ranch Dip
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ranch dip for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced yellow squash with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve hot with ranch dip for a delicious and addictive snack.
12. Honey Glazed Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash in the honey glaze until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.
- Serve hot as a sweet and savory side dish.
13. Zesty Lemon Pepper Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash in the lemon pepper marinade until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
- Serve hot as a zesty and refreshing side dish.
14. Yellow Squash And Corn Fritters
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, grated
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a large bowl, combine grated yellow squash, corn kernels, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, smoked paprika, cumin, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties.
- Lightly coat the patties with cooking spray.
- Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fritters are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
15. Cajun Spiced Yellow Squash And Shrimp
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash and shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices and shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges for a spicy and flavorful meal.
16. Caprese Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 4 yellow squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped basil, balsamic glaze, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each halved yellow squash with the caprese mixture.
- Place the stuffed squash boats in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve hot as a delicious and elegant appetizer or side dish.
17. Balsamic Roasted Yellow Squash And Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices and Brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
- Serve hot as a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
18. Asian Inspired Yellow Squash Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sliced carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash, snap peas, sliced bell peppers, and sliced carrots in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
19. Herbed Yellow Squash Risotto
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In an air fryer-safe baking dish, combine diced yellow squash, Arborio rice, vegetable broth, minced garlic, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Air fry for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the rice is cooked through and creamy.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot as a comforting and flavorful risotto dish.
20. Coconut Crusted Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of shredded coconut, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each yellow squash round into the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally the coconut breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Place the coated squash rounds in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray the squash rounds with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the rounds are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with a sweet chili dipping sauce for a tropical twist.
21. Lemon Garlic Yellow Squash Noodles
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, spiralized
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the spiralized yellow squash with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash noodles in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the noodles are tender and lightly browned.
- Serve hot as a refreshing and low-carb alternative to pasta.
22. Italian Herb Marinated Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash in the Italian herb marinade until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
- Serve hot as a flavorful and aromatic side dish.
23. Southwest Style Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 4 yellow squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked black beans
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a bowl, mix together cooked black beans, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, diced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each halved yellow squash with the southwest style filling.
- Place the stuffed squash boats in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve hot as a hearty and flavorful main dish.
24. Panko Crusted Yellow Squash Sticks
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, cut into sticks
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each yellow squash stick into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Place the coated squash sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray the squash sticks with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
25. Buffalo Style Roasted Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash in the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly charred.
- Serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping, for a spicy and tangy treat.
26. Ratatouille Stuffed Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 4 yellow squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 1 cup diced eggplant
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
- In a bowl, mix together diced eggplant, diced zucchini, diced tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each halved yellow squash with the ratatouille mixture.
- Place the stuffed squash boats in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve hot as a delicious and colorful vegetable dish.
27. Garlic Butter Roasted Yellow Squash
Ingredients
- 3 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the sliced yellow squash in the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and lightly browned.
- Serve hot as a rich and flavorful side dish.
Yellow squash is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be transformed into a wide variety of delicious dishes using an air fryer. From crispy fries to stuffed boats to flavorful stir-fries, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and fillings to create your own unique yellow squash air fryer recipes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, these recipes are sure to impress. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of yellow squash cooked to perfection in your air fryer.
Top 10 Global Flavors
Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods without sacrificing flavor or texture. These countertop appliances use hot air to crisp up food, creating a satisfying crunch without the need for excessive oil. When it comes to yellow squash, the air fryer provides the perfect cooking method, preserving its natural sweetness while adding a delightful crunch.
Yellow squash, a member of the gourd family, is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and ingredients. Whether you’re craving a light snack or a hearty meal, yellow squash can be transformed into a delicious dish with just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the air fryer.
Yellow squash is a versatile ingredient that lends itself well to a variety of global flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian-inspired dishes or Mediterranean classics, there’s a flavor profile to suit every palate. Here are ten global flavors to explore when cooking yellow squash in your air fryer:
1. Italian Herb
Italian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and aromatic herbs. For an Italian-inspired twist on yellow squash, toss thinly sliced squash with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Air fry until golden brown and crispy, then sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a deliciously savory snack or side dish.
2. Tex-Mex
Spice up your yellow squash with Tex-Mex flair by seasoning it with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness, then air fry until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a tasty Tex-Mex treat.
3. Thai Curry
Transport your taste buds to Thailand with Thai curry-flavored yellow squash. Mix together red curry paste, coconut milk, lime juice, and a touch of brown sugar to create a flavorful marinade. Toss the squash slices in the marinade, then air fry until golden and crispy. Garnish with chopped cilantro and peanuts for an authentic Thai experience.
4. Mediterranean
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your air fryer with a blend of garlic, lemon, and herbs. Toss yellow squash with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, and chopped fresh parsley. Air fry until tender and caramelized, then serve with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing twist.
5. Indian Spice
Add a touch of warmth and spice to your yellow squash with Indian-inspired seasonings. Mix together garam masala, turmeric, coriander, and cumin for a fragrant spice blend. Toss the squash slices in the spice mixture, then air fry until crispy and golden. Serve with a side of mango chutney for a delightful burst of sweetness.
6. Asian Sesame
Infuse your yellow squash with the flavors of Asia by tossing it in a sesame-soy marinade. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger in a bowl. Toss the squash slices in the marinade, then air fry until caramelized and tender. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an irresistible finish.
7. Cajun Spice
Give your yellow squash a Cajun kick with a blend of spices and herbs. Mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme for a flavorful Cajun seasoning. Coat the squash slices in the seasoning, then air fry until crispy and golden. Serve with a side of remoulade sauce for a taste of the Bayou.
8. Greek Lemon Garlic
Brighten up your yellow squash with the vibrant flavors of Greece. Toss the squash slices with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, and chopped fresh dill. Air fry until golden brown and tender, then serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a taste of the Mediterranean.
9. Middle Eastern Za’atar
Elevate your yellow squash with the aromatic flavors of za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend. Mix together za’atar seasoning, olive oil, lemon zest, and minced garlic in a bowl. Toss the squash slices in the marinade, then air fry until crispy and golden. Serve with a drizzle of tahini sauce for a deliciously nutty finish.
10. Japanese Teriyaki
Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki with yellow squash. Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and grated ginger in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened, then toss the squash slices in the teriyaki sauce. Air fry until caramelized and tender, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.
My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe
One of my favorite air fryer recipes featuring yellow squash is a simple yet delicious snack or side dish that combines the flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. Here’s how to make it:
Garlic Parmesan Yellow Squash Chips
Ingredients
- 2 medium yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced yellow squash with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Air fry the squash slices for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the squash chips from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
These garlic Parmesan yellow squash chips are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. They make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or side dish for any occasion.
Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking
Cooking with an air fryer is easy and convenient, but there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure successful results every time:
1. Preheat The Air Fryer
Just like with a traditional oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that it reaches the desired temperature before you start cooking. This helps to achieve optimal crispiness and even cooking.
2. Use The Right Amount Of Oil
While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying methods, it’s still important to use enough oil to coat the food evenly. A light coating of oil helps to promote crispiness and prevent sticking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd The Basket
To ensure that your food cooks evenly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Arrange the food in a single layer with some space between each piece for proper air circulation.
4. Shake Or Flip The Food
For even cooking and browning, shake or flip the food halfway through the cooking time. This helps to ensure that all sides are evenly crisped and prevents any spots from becoming overly browned.
5. Experiment With Seasonings
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings! Experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades to discover new flavor combinations that you love.
6. Keep An Eye On The Food
Since air fryers cook food quickly, it’s important to keep an eye on the cooking progress to avoid overcooking or burning. Check the food periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.
7. Clean The Air Fryer Regularly
To maintain optimal performance and prevent any lingering flavors or odors, clean your air fryer regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
By following these tips and tricks, you can achieve delicious and crispy results with your air fryer every time.
Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks
For busy cooks, the air fryer is a lifesaver when it comes to preparing quick and easy meals. Here are some time-saving strategies to streamline your air fryer cooking:
1. Prep Ahead Of Time
Spend some time prepping ingredients ahead of time, such as washing and slicing vegetables or marinating meats. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
2. Batch Cook And Freeze
Take advantage of your air fryer’s capacity by batch cooking and freezing meals ahead of time. Simply cook large batches of your favorite recipes, portion them out, and freeze them for quick and convenient meals later on.
3. Use Frozen Foods
Frozen foods, such as pre-cut vegetables or chicken tenders, can be cooked directly in the air fryer without the need for thawing. Simply season them as desired and cook according to the package instructions for a quick and hassle-free meal.
4. Embrace One-Pot Meals
Make use of accessories like baking pans or silicone molds to create one-pot meals in your air fryer. Simply layer ingredients in a single dish, cook them together, and enjoy a complete meal with minimal cleanup.
5. Get Creative With Leftovers
Transform leftovers into new and exciting dishes with the help of your air fryer. Use leftover roasted vegetables to make crispy veggie fritters or turn yesterday’s grilled chicken into flavorful chicken wraps.
6. Opt For Pre-Packaged Ingredients
Save time on meal prep by using pre-packaged ingredients, such as pre-cut vegetables or pre-seasoned meats. These convenient shortcuts can help you get dinner on the table in no time.
7. Clean As You Go
To avoid a messy kitchen after cooking, clean your air fryer and any utensils or accessories as you go. This helps to minimize cleanup time and ensures that your air fryer is ready for the next use.
By incorporating these time-saving strategies into your routine, you can enjoy delicious meals cooked in your air fryer with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Conclusion
Yellow squash is a versatile ingredient that shines when cooked in an air fryer. Whether you’re craving savory snacks, hearty meals, or international flavors, there’s a yellow squash air fryer recipe to suit every taste preference. From Italian herb-infused chips to Thai curry-flavored bites, the possibilities are endless. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide and utilizing time-saving strategies, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals prepared in your air fryer with ease. So fire up your air fryer, grab some yellow squash, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like never before!