Ingredients
For the Squash
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures the squash starts cooking at the optimal temperature for a crispy exterior.
- Prepare Your Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls. Combine flour, salt, and pepper in the first bowl. Beat the eggs until well mixed in the second bowl. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Squash: Dip each squash slice into the flour mixture, coating it lightly. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each slice is thoroughly coated for the crispiest result.
- Air Fry the Squash: Lay the breaded squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow even cooking. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crunchiness.
- Cooking Time: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash turns golden brown and tender. Adjust the timing as needed based on your air fryer model.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While the squash is cooking, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and smoked paprika (or hot sauce) in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, creating a perfectly paired dipping sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the crispy squash rounds from the air fryer and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve while hot alongside your homemade dipping sauce.
Notes
- For the crispiest texture, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—work in batches if necessary.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat in the breading mix.
- The dipping sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge.
- These are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the air fryer for a quick snack.
- Substitute the Parmesan for nutritional yeast to make it vegetarian-friendly if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side-dishes
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 6-8 pieces with sauce)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg