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Yes, you can cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer, and it’s one of the easiest ways to get a crispy, flavorful side dish on the table fast.
If you’ve been wondering whether your air fryer can handle summer squash, zucchini, and similar veggies, the answer is a resounding yes.
The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, which roasts the zucchini and squash beautifully without turning them into a mushy mess.
In this post, we’ll go over exactly how to cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer, the best seasonings, temperature settings, and tips so yours come out perfectly every time.
Let’s get cooking.
Why You Can Cook Zucchini and Squash in the Air Fryer
You can cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer because these tender vegetables respond wonderfully to quick, high-heat cooking.
Here’s why the air fryer is such a great fit:
1. It Mimics Roasting Without Heating Up Your Kitchen
When you cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer, the circulating hot air creates a roasted texture similar to oven roasting but in a fraction of the time.
That means you get those lightly browned edges and tender insides without waiting for a big oven to preheat.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade and healthy.
2. Zucchini and Squash Have High Water Content
Zucchini and squash are mostly water, which is why they can turn soggy if you crowd them or steam them too long.
The air fryer’s rapid air circulation helps evaporate that extra moisture, so the slices come out crisp-tender instead of limp.
This is exactly why so many people love to cook squash in the air fryer.
3. They Cook Fast and Absorb Flavors Well
Both zucchini and yellow squash have a mild flavor that soaks up seasonings, oils, and herbs beautifully.
Because the air fryer cooks them quickly, you can toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, and parmesan right before they go in, and the flavors stay bright and fresh.
So when you cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer, you’re getting a healthy side dish with minimal effort.
How to Cook Zucchini and Squash in the Air Fryer
Getting great results comes down to a few simple steps.
Here’s the basic method for cooking zucchini and squash in the air fryer:
1. Prep the Zucchini and Squash
Start by washing your zucchini and squash, then trim off the ends.
Cut them into uniform pieces, about ½-inch thick rounds or half-moons, so they cook evenly.
If your squash is large and has big seeds, scoop some of the seeds out to avoid a watery texture.
2. Toss With Oil and Seasonings
In a bowl, drizzle the zucchini and squash with a tablespoon or two of olive oil.
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
You can also sprinkle in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Toss everything gently so each piece is coated, but don’t drown them in oil.
3. Preheat and Arrange in a Single Layer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes.
Place the seasoned zucchini and squash in the basket in a single layer.
Don’t overcrowd them, or they’ll steam instead of roast.
If you have a lot of veggies, cook them in batches so they crisp up properly.
4. Air Fry and Shake Halfway Through
Cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer at 375°F for about 10 to 12 minutes.
Shake the basket or flip the pieces halfway through so they brown evenly.
Smaller pieces may be done in 8 minutes, while thicker slices might need 14 minutes.
Keep an eye on them the first time you make this so you can adjust for your specific air fryer model.
5. Finish With a Squeeze of Lemon or Parmesan
Once they’re golden and tender, transfer the zucchini and squash to a serving bowl.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, or fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley.
This bright finish makes the dish taste restaurant-quality with almost no extra work.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash
A few small adjustments can make a big difference when you cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer.
1. Cut Pieces the Same Size
Uniform pieces ensure everything cooks at the same rate.
If some pieces are thick and others are thin, the thin ones will burn before the thick ones are tender.
Take an extra minute to cut them evenly.
2. Pat Them Dry Before Seasoning
Zucchini and squash hold a lot of surface moisture after washing.
Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before tossing with oil.
This helps them crisp up instead of steaming in the air fryer.
3. Don’t Skip the Oil Entirely
A little oil helps seasonings stick and encourages browning.
You don’t need much, just a light coating.
If you want to cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer with less oil, use an oil sprayer to mist them evenly.
4. Add a Little Cornstarch for Extra Crisp
If you like your squash with a crispier exterior, toss the pieces with a teaspoon of cornstarch along with the oil and seasonings.
It’s a small trick that helps the surface brown and crunch up nicely.
5. Season After Cooking Too
Some fresh herbs and flaky salt are best added after cooking.
Heat can dull the flavor of delicate herbs like dill or cilantro, so sprinkle them on at the end for a fresher taste.
So, Can You Cook Zucchini and Squash in the Air Fryer?
You can absolutely cook zucchini and squash in the air fryer, and it’s one of the fastest, tastiest ways to prepare them.
With a little oil, your favorite seasonings, and about 10 to 12 minutes at 375°F, you’ll have a healthy side dish that pairs with almost any meal.
Just remember to cut the pieces evenly, avoid overcrowding the basket, and shake halfway through for the best results.
Once you start cooking zucchini and squash in the air fryer, it might just become your go-to veggie side.
Give it a try tonight and enjoy that crispy, golden goodness.