Delicious, cornmeal-dusted air fryer squash made with yellow summer squash and zucchini. This is an easy, healthy spin on Southern fried squash. Naturally gluten-free and vegan!
5-Stars From Our Readers
“I loved this easy side dish! It was a great use of the squash I had in the fridge, and even the kids loved it!”
— Jennifer
A Note From Kristen
This recipe is super simple! Just toss everything right into the air fryer basket, give it a quick mix, and let the air fryer do the work. All it takes is squash, a little oil, some cornmeal, and a few spices. It turns into a fantastic side dish the whole family can enjoy (and it even works as a snack or appetizer with a favorite dipping sauce!). Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and soy-free. This is my take on a Southern fried squash, but in an air fryer. I hope you enjoy!
~Kristen
Ingredient Notes
Please keep in mind that this is just a quick overview. Visit the full recipe for amounts and instructions!
How to Make Air Fryer Squash
- Add all the ingredients directly to the air fryer basket (or mix them in a bowl first, if you prefer). Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Air fry until the squash is beautifully golden and perfectly crisp.
- Serve and enjoy!
Serving Ideas
- Serve with savory meals as a side dish. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese or vegan parmesan for additional flavor!
- Serve mixed into pasta with a favorite sauce.
- Toss into salads.
- Use as a pizza topping.
- Serve as an appetizer alongside a favorite dipping sauce.
Kristen’s Top Tips
- Slice the squash evenly so everything cooks at the same pace. About ¼ to ½ inch thick is perfect for crisp, yet tender bites.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Giving the slices space lets them crisp up instead of steaming!
- Shake the basket or flip the slices halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.
More Tasty Air Fryer Recipes You Might Love
Air Fryer Squash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 yellow crookneck summer squash sliced into 1/4" slices
- 1 green zucchini squash sliced into 1/4" slices
- 1 tablespoon oil of choice I like to use avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal certified gluten-free if necessary
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In an air fryer basket, add the squash, oil, cornmeal, salt and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
- Air fry at 425°F for 20 minutes or until the cornmeal breading starts to turn golden and crispy.
- Enjoy!
I loved this easy side dish! It was a great use of the squash I had in the fridge, and even the kids loved it!
I am such a pickly squash eater but it’s the season, right?! I hate when it gets mushy. Thank you for this recipe! I adored the crispiness and finally have a way to cook summer squash that i love!
Thank you! So happy to hear!
I loved how easy it was to make this delicious recipe!
I love how simple this was to make and it was a great way to use up the 12957 veggies in the garden hehe. Plus, eays as a side dish or in a pasta!
This is so easy, quick, and really tasty! I never would have thought to add cornmeal but I love that idea.
This squash looks so good with that cornmeal crust! I love how easily it comes together in the air fryer. Looks so good!
Thank you!
Never tried squash in the air fryer. What an interesting recipe to try. Thanks for sharing.
Delicious side dish! Very easy to make and the cornmeal coating adds a bit of welcome texture! Great way to use summer squash!
This air fryer squash was delicious. My kids loved this healthy side.
I’m so happy to hear that! 🙂