Air Fryer Yellow Squash Fries
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
2 medium yellow squash
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
Prepare the Squash:
Wash the yellow squash and cut them into "fries" that are about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better.
Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Squash:
Dip each piece of yellow squash into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure an even coating.
Air Fry the Squash:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange the coated squash fries in a single layer in the basket (you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding).
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash fries are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, spicy mayo, or even marinara are great options!
Pro Tips:
Ensure Crunchy Fries: Pat the squash dry thoroughly before coating to reduce excess moisture, which can make the fries less crispy.
For a Healthier Twist: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber, or substitute with crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest to add brightness to the flavors.
Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure each fry gets crispy on all sides. It’s better to cook in batches for the best results.
Make it Kid-Friendly: Serve these squash fries as a healthy side to a main dish like chicken tenders, or let kids dip them in ketchup for a fun, veggie-packed snack.
Dipping Ideas:
Garlic Aioli: Mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise with 1 minced garlic clove, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a delicious dipping sauce.
Spicy Ketchup: Combine 1/2 cup ketchup with a teaspoon of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
These Air Fryer Yellow Squash Fries are a fun, crispy alternative to traditional fries—perfect for a family-friendly side dish or an afternoon snack. Let me know if you'd like more variations or details for this recipe!
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