Crispy Zucchini and Squash Air Fryer Recipe

Looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy way to prepare summer vegetables? This Zucchini and Squash Air Fryer Recipe is a perfect choice! With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, this air-fried vegetable medley is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s light, gluten-free, and a great way to enjoy fresh zucchini and yellow squash.

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Introduction

Zucchini and yellow squash are staples in summer produce, offering a mild flavor and versatile texture that can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or, in this case, air-fried. Using an air fryer to prepare these vegetables helps achieve a crispy exterior while retaining their tender and juicy interior. Plus, it uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, making it a healthier alternative. This recipe is quick, customizable, and suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 80

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Cuisines and Course

• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
• Course: Side Dish, Appetizer, Snack

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Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~80
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Vitamin A: 8% of Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 25% of DV
• Calcium: 2% of DV
• Iron: 3% of DV

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Equipment

1. Air fryer
2. Cutting board
3. Chef’s knife
4. Mixing bowls
5. Measuring spoons
6. Tongs

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Ingredients

• 1 medium zucchini
• 1 medium yellow squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash the zucchini and yellow squash thoroughly under running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Slice both vegetables into uniform rounds, about ¼-inch thick. Uniform slicing ensures even cooking in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Vegetables

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini and squash slices.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the slices. Toss again until the vegetables are well-coated with the seasoning.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures consistent cooking and crispy results.

Step 4: Air Fry the Vegetables

1. Arrange the seasoned zucchini and squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation. If needed, cook in batches.
2. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. Adjust cooking time as needed based on your air fryer model and desired level of doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the vegetables from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes to cool slightly.
2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top for an extra burst of flavor, if desired.
3. Serve immediately as a side dish, snack, or appetizer.

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Tips for Success

1. Uniform Slices: Consistent thickness ensures even cooking and prevents some slices from being undercooked or overcooked.
2. No Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can result in soggy vegetables.
3. Customization: Feel free to experiment with seasonings. Add chili powder for a spicy kick or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly cheesy flavor.
4. Oil Alternatives: If you prefer oil-free cooking, skip the olive oil and lightly mist the vegetables with cooking spray.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: With less than 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy: Low in calories and packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Versatile: Works as a side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or pasta, or as a stand-alone snack.
• Crispy & Flavorful: The air fryer gives the vegetables a satisfying crunch while locking in flavor.

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FAQs

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable’s density and size.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast.

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With its crispy texture, rich flavors, and nutritional benefits, this Zucchini and Squash Air Fryer Recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Perfect for summer and beyond, it’s an easy, versatile dish that’s sure to satisfy. Give it a try and elevate your vegetable game today!