You want a side dish that’s faster than microwaving leftovers and healthier than deep-fried anything. Enter air fryer zucchini and squash—your ticket to crispy, veggie-packed goodness without the guilt. No soggy steamed veggies here.
No oil-drenched “healthy” alternatives. Just golden edges, tender centers, and flavor that makes you forget you’re eating something good for you. Why spend 30 minutes roasting when the air fryer gets it done in 10?
Let’s fix your sad vegetable game.
Why This Recipe Works
Speed. The air fryer crisps zucchini and squash in minutes, not the eternity it takes an oven. Texture. You get caramelized edges without the mush. Versatility. Eat it solo, toss it in salads, or pile it on pasta. Plus, it’s idiot-proof—no babysitting required. Even if you burn toast regularly, you can handle this.
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini (sliced into ¼-inch rounds or half-moons)
- 1 medium yellow squash (same cut as zucchini)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (because fresh garlic is for overachievers)
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked if you’re fancy)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: Grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon post-cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the veggies. Slice zucchini and squash evenly.
Uneven cuts = some charred, some soggy. Nobody wants that.
- Toss with oil and spices. Drizzle oil, sprinkle seasonings, and mix like you mean it. Coat every piece, or regret it later.
- Air fry at 375°F. Single layer in the basket—no stacking unless you enjoy steaming.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Check for doneness. Edges should be crispy, not blackened (unless that’s your thing).
- Serve immediately. Top with Parmesan or lemon if you’re feeling extra. Or eat straight from the basket. No judgment.
Storage Instructions
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes to revive crispiness. Microwaving turns them sad and limp—don’t do it. Freezer: Not recommended unless you enjoy soggy, thawed veggies. IMO, just eat them fresh.
Benefits of This Recipe
Healthier than frying: Uses a fraction of the oil for the same crunch. Low-carb/Keto-friendly: Virtually no carbs unless you drown it in ranch. Kid-approved: Crispy texture tricks picky eaters into eating veggies. Meal prep hero: Works in bowls, wraps, or as a standalone snack.
Plus, it’s so easy you’ll actually make it instead of just pinning it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the basket. Steam is the enemy of crispiness. Cook in batches if needed.
- Skipping the oil. A little fat helps the spices stick and promotes browning. Don’t be scared.
- Ignoring the shake. Shake the basket halfway—unless you want one side charred and the other raw.
- Using watery veggies. Pat zucchini and squash dry before seasoning.
Excess moisture = soggy results.
Alternatives
Swap the spices: Try Italian seasoning, Cajun blend, or everything bagel seasoning. Add protein: Toss in chickpeas or tofu cubes halfway through cooking. Other veggies: Eggplant, bell peppers, or green beans work too—adjust cook time as needed. Cheat code: Air fry store-bought frozen zucchini fries when you’re feeling lazy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini and squash?
Technically yes, but thaw and pat them dry first. Frozen veggies release too much water, so expect less crispiness. Fresh is better.
Why are my veggies soggy?
You either overcrowded the basket, didn’t shake them, or skipped the oil.
Or all three. Follow the instructions, rookie.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Not mandatory, but preheating for 2–3 minutes gives better results. If you’re impatient, just add an extra minute to the cook time.
Can I make this oil-free?
You can, but don’t expect crispiness.
Oil helps conduct heat and brown the veggies. Use spray oil for lighter coverage.
What dips work well with this?
Ranch, tzatziki, marinara, or even hummus. FYI, dipping defeats the “healthy” angle, but live your life.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer zucchini and squash is the side dish you’ll make weekly—minimal effort, maximum reward.
It’s crispy, fast, and adaptable enough to fit any meal. Stop relegating veggies to sad, steamed afterthoughts. Your air fryer exists for a reason.
Use it.