When it comes to easy, healthy, and flavorful side dishes, Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash is a winner every time. This recipe transforms two humble summer vegetables into golden, tender rounds that are perfectly seasoned and irresistibly tasty. With just a handful of pantry spices, a drizzle of avocado oil, and 15 minutes in the air fryer, you can have a light yet satisfying side dish that pairs well with almost anything.
Zucchini and yellow squash are among my favorite vegetables to cook in the air fryer. They caramelize beautifully, and the circulating hot air gives them a lightly crispy exterior while keeping the insides soft and juicy. The best part? You don’t need to dredge or bread them—this is all about highlighting their natural sweetness with a simple spice blend.
Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, hosting a backyard barbecue, or looking for a healthy snack, this Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash recipe is your go-to option for fresh, seasonal flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash
- Fast and easy: Only 5 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking.
- Healthy and low-carb: A great choice for keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets.
- Minimal cleanup: The air fryer basket is much easier to wash than a baking sheet.
- Customizable seasoning: Change up the spices to fit your meal.
- Versatile side dish: Pairs with grilled meats, pasta, fish, or vegetarian mains.
Ingredients
Serves 4 generous portions.
- 1 large zucchini
- 1 large yellow squash
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the zucchini and squash thoroughly. Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Vegetables
Place the sliced zucchini and squash into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil, then sprinkle over the sea salt, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and black pepper. Toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes. Arrange the seasoned vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Air fry for 7 minutes, then flip or shake the basket to turn the vegetables. Continue cooking for another 7–8 minutes until the rounds are tender and lightly golden.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer the vegetables to a serving platter. Enjoy them hot as a side dish or snack.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip drying the vegetables: Excess moisture can cause steaming instead of crisping.
- Single layer cooking: Overlapping pieces will cook unevenly.
- Use a spritz of oil halfway through: If you want extra golden edges, lightly spray with oil before flipping.
- Play with spices: Try Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, or Cajun spices for different flavor profiles.
- For extra crispiness: Increase the temperature to 390°F (200°C) for the final 2 minutes.
Variations
- Parmesan-Crusted: Add 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese before cooking.
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- Herb Lovers: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme before air frying.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add oregano, basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Garlic Butter: Toss with melted butter and minced garlic after air frying.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Salmon or shrimp dishes
- Vegetarian pasta
- Burgers or sandwiches
- Breakfast plates with eggs and toast
You can also serve them as a healthier appetizer with dips like tzatziki, hummus, or ranch dressing.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to restore warmth and slight crispiness.
- Avoid freezing: The high water content in zucchini and squash makes them mushy when thawed.
Why the Air Fryer Works Wonders
The air fryer circulates hot air rapidly around the vegetables, cooking them evenly while allowing the natural sugars to caramelize. This method keeps the texture tender but not soggy, and you use much less oil compared to roasting or pan-frying.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash recipe is a celebration of simplicity—fresh vegetables, a touch of oil, and a handful of seasonings come together to create a flavorful, versatile side dish in minutes. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Once you make this recipe, it’s likely to become a regular on your menu. From weeknight dinners to summer cookouts, this dish fits every occasion and offers a delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce at its best.
The Goods
Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash
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Recipes
- 1 large zucchini
- 1 large yellow squash
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and dry the zucchini and squash thoroughly. Slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Vegetables
- Place the sliced zucchini and squash into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil, then sprinkle over the sea salt, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and black pepper. Toss everything until the vegetables are evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes. Arrange the seasoned vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding—if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
- Air fry for 7 minutes, then flip or shake the basket to turn the vegetables. Continue cooking for another 7–8 minutes until the rounds are tender and lightly golden.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
- Transfer the vegetables to a serving platter. Enjoy them hot as a side dish or snack.
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