Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash Recipe
I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.
Air fryer zucchini and squash offer a quick, delicious, and healthy side dish that you can prepare in just minutes. Using an air fryer, you can achieve crisp-tender veggies without the need for heavy breading or complicated steps.
You will love how easy it is to cut, season, and cook these summer staples. A drizzle of olive oil and some simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors of zucchini and squash, making them a perfect addition to any meal. If you’re looking for a low-carb, vegan, or Whole30-friendly option, this dish checks all the boxes.
Explore different seasoning variations and tips to make your dish even better. Enjoy the convenience of using an air fryer to create tasty and nutritious meals that your family will love. Dive into the full recipe and discover how this simple method transforms your vegetables.
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
To make air fryer zucchini and squash, you will need the following ingredients. Below each ingredient, you will find possible substitutes if you want to try something different.
Zucchini and Yellow Squash
Substitute: You can use all zucchini or all yellow squash if you prefer one over the other.
Olive Oil
Substitute: You can use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or melted coconut oil.
Sea Salt
Substitute: Regular table salt or kosher salt will also work.
Garlic Powder
Substitute: Fresh minced garlic or garlic salt. If using garlic salt, reduce the amount of sea salt.
Black Pepper
Substitute: White pepper, red pepper flakes, or omit it if you don’t like spice.
Optional Add-Ons
Parmesan Cheese
Substitute: Grated pecorino romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
Substitute: Dried Italian seasoning or fresh chopped basil.
Helpful Tip
- Always taste and adjust the seasonings to suit your preference. Cooking is about making food you enjoy!
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients:
- Wash 2 medium zucchini and 2 medium yellow squash.
- Trim the ends and cut the zucchini and squash into 1/2-inch slices.
Seasoning:
- Place sliced zucchini and squash in a bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil.
- Toss everything until the pieces are well coated.
Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 3-5 minutes.
Cooking:
- Place the seasoned zucchini and squash into the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Serve:
- Once done, remove the zucchini and squash from the air fryer.
- Optionally, sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
When using your air fryer for zucchini and squash, there are a few tips that can make the process easier and help you get delicious results.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. This step is important for even cooking.
Cut evenly. Make sure the zucchini and squash slices are about 1/2-inch thick. This helps them cook at the same rate.
Don’t overcrowd. Place the pieces in a single layer in the basket. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking.
Toss with oil. Lightly coat the veggies with olive oil or cooking spray. This ensures they get crispy in the air fryer.
Season well. Use your favorite herbs and spices. Some good options are garlic powder, paprika, or dried Italian herbs.
When your zucchini and squash are done cooking, you might have leftovers. Here’s how you can store them:
Refrigerate: Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked zucchini and squash. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.
Reheat: To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warm. This will help retain their crispy texture.
Use these tips and tricks to make your air fryer zucchini and squash even better, and store them properly to enjoy later!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Recipe Variations
Parmesan Zucchini and Squash: Add 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese before air frying for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
Garlic-Lemon Flavor: Add minced garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy flavor.
Herb Infusion: Use a mix of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano to coat the veggies.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar on the veggies before air frying for a sweet and tangy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a balanced meal.
Topping: Use as a topping for salads or grain bowls to add texture and flavor.
Healthy Snack: Enjoy the air-fried zucchini and squash as a light and healthy snack.
Tacos: Add the veggies to soft tortillas with avocado, pico de gallo, and a dash of lime juice.
Pasta: Mix into pasta dishes with a bit of olive oil and freshly grated parmesan for an easy dinner.
Sandwiches and Wraps: Add to your favorite sandwiches and wraps for extra veggies and crunch.
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.
