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Crispy Air Fryer Summer Squash Recipe with Parmesan and Herbs

crispy air fryer summer squash - featured image

This recipe transforms summer squash into crispy, golden morsels with a flavorful parmesan and herb crust using an air fryer. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a light, satisfying side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium summer squash (zucchini or yellow squash), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice 2 medium summer squash into 1/4-inch thick rounds, keeping slices uniform.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir gently to blend.
  3. Add the sliced squash to the bowl and toss gently but thoroughly to coat each slice with the parmesan and herb mixture.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Arrange the coated squash slices in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry the squash at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping each slice halfway through cooking using tongs or a spatula.
  7. Check for doneness: squash should be tender inside with a crispy, golden parmesan crust outside. Add 1–2 more minutes if needed, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Transfer the cooked squash to a serving plate and sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and crisping. Keep squash slices uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness. Flip slices halfway through cooking. For a dairy-free option, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free hard cheese. If you don’t have an air fryer, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: summer squash, air fryer, parmesan, herbs, crispy, easy side dish, healthy snack, gluten-free, vegetarian