When you are looking for a fast and delicious healthy side dish it doesn't get much better than these Air Fryer Squash. This recipe takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish and is a perfect way to cook up your favorite summer squash!
Yes I know, my air fryer obsession continues. But I'll tell you what it does wonders for helping this busy working mom get healthy meals on the table fast. And I mean really fast.
This Air Fryer squash recipe will work with about any summer squash you can find, whether that be zucchini, yellow squash, Italian squash, you name it. I love adding a little garlic powder and Italian seasoning to this recipe but you can really get creative and season to your personal taste. Hope you enjoy!
Jump to:
Why do I love my air fryer?
I'm not going to lie it took me some time to jump on the air fryer bandwagon, but y'all, I am so glad I did. While it works similar to an oven, particularly a convection oven, it is so much easier to preheat, use and clean up and generally takes less time with crispier results.
It is especially great when used for recipes like this when you want a quick, easy and healthy side dish without all the fuss of turning on the oven and dirtying another pan.
The air fryer truly is a miracle of kitchen technology!
Other air fryer recipes you will love.
Equipment
- Cutting board and knife
- Measure spoon
- Mixing bowl : These Pyrex glass bowls are microwave and dishwasher safe and my go to mixing bowls!
- Air Fryer: I love my Power XL Air Fryer because it heats up super fast and can hold a ton in the basket. This recipe will work with pretty much any standard air fryer.
Ingredients
- Summer squash: I like a combo of yellow squash and zucchini but you can really use any summer squash your prefer.
- Olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- Italian seasoning (optional): I love roast squash with Italian seasoning and garlic powder but this recipe is also delicious with just salt and pepper or really any other of your favorite seasonings.
- Garlic powder (optional)
Step by Step Instructions
Time needed: 9 minutes
How to make squash in the air fryer.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F.
- Prep the squash and season.
- Cook at 400 degrees F for 6-7 minutes, shaking the basket at the half way point.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve. Enjoy!
Recipe FAQs
It sort of depends on your air fryer but by and large I recommend preheating for at least a couple of minutes, or about the time it takes to prep the squash. It will give you a more even cook and take less time over all.
Store in the fridge in an air tight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat in the microwave (in a microwave safe glass bowl. Never microwave food in plastic!)
Yes! Though I recommend sticking to summer varieties which have a similar texture and require the same amount of time to cook.
Zucchini, Italian squash, yellow squash all work well and can be used interchangeably in this recipe.
Dietary and Lifestyle Information
This recipe is naturally gluten free, dairy free, grain free and soy free.
It is compatible with Whole30 or a Paleo, Keto or Low Carb lifestyle. It also is a great "veggies most" option for those following the 2B Mindset program or on WW.
Tips for perfect Air Fryer Squash
- Pick in season squash at the peak of freshness. The quality of the squash itself is going to make a huge difference in this recipe. You want squash that is firm and has a bright color.
- Adjust cooking time to your preferred level of firmness. 6-7 minutes should get you squash that is softened but still a little firm. If you prefer a softer squash then add a minute or two to the cook time. If you prefer more al dente check it around the 4-5 minute mark.
- Season to taste. Make sure that you taste the squash and add salt and pepper accordingly. Most of the time when people feel like a recipe is missing something it is usually salt. Add a little, taste again and see what you think.
Other recipes for you to enjoy.
Low Carb Zucchini Wrapped Chicken Enchiladas
Linguine with Scallops, Corn and Zucchini and Cilantro Cream Sauce
Made this recipe? Let me know what you think in the comments!
Recipe
Air Fryer Squash
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Cutting board and knife
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 medium/large summer squash I like using 1 zucchini and 1 yellow squash, but any combination will work.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- salt & pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning optional
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F for a couple minutes while you prep the squash. Slice the squash in ¼th inch disks and place in a mixing bowl. Drizzle on olive oil, a generous pinch of salt and pepper and Italian seasoning and garlic powder (if using). Toss until the squash is evenly coated in the oil and seasoning. Pour squash into the basket of the preheated air fryer and cook at 400 degrees F for 6-7 minutes until you desired level of firmness is achieved. Remove from the basket and immediately toss with a little more salt and pepper to taste. Serve and enjoy!
Jess
I LOVE summer squash. This is such an easy and quick way to enjoy them!
Andrea
I'll definitely be making this summer squash this year. It's perfect as a side or a snack.
Katherine
Such a fresh and tasty side dish. I love how quick it is in the air fryer.
Emily Flint
Air fryer squash is my new go-to recipe for summer! So easy, delicious, and healthy!!
Heidy
These Air Fryer Squash were wonderful---so fast to make too. I was in and out of the kitchen in no time. The family loved it! I will be making this again
Claudia Lamascolo
We love squash never thought to try this in an air fryer cant wait going to the market to get some squash thanks
Tara
Oh yum! Such a wonderful use for summertime squash. Sounds amazing and I love how easily it comes together in the air fryer.
AISilva
I love squash and your air fryer squash turned out amazingly, my whole family loved it. Thanks for the tips on making it more al dente as well!
Cathleen
Wow, what CAN'T the air fryer do?? This squash looks so perfect, I am definitely adding it to my menu for this weekend 🙂
Kristen
This squash turned out great. Will definitely make it again!
Tara H.
Tried this recipe for the first time & my father-in-law & I ended up eating an entire yellow squash by ourselves before my fiance & dinner guests got here lol we loved it!
jamjarkitchen
Yay! So glad y’all enjoyed!