Introduction
If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy side dish, look no further than air fryer roasted zucchini and squash. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect addition to your weekday meals or weekend gatherings. In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making this dish and discuss the benefits of using an air fryer for cooking.
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need:
– 2 medium-sized zucchini
– 2 medium-sized yellow squash
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. While the air fryer is preheating, wash the zucchini and squash thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into half-inch thick rounds.
3. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
4. Add the zucchini and squash rounds to the bowl and toss them gently to coat them evenly with the marinade.
5. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the coated zucchini and squash rounds in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
6. Cook the zucchini and squash at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly.
7. After 10 minutes, check the zucchini and squash for desired doneness. If they’re not cooked to your liking, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Once they’re cooked to perfection, remove the zucchini and squash from the air fryer and serve them immediately as a side dish.
Why Choose the Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a great appliance to have in your kitchen for several reasons. First and foremost, it allows you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with significantly less oil. In fact, air frying uses up to 75% less oil compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier alternative.
Additionally, air fryers provide a convenient and efficient way to cook. They preheat quickly and cook food faster than a conventional oven, saving you time in the kitchen. They also eliminate the need for flipping food constantly, as the hot air circulates and cooks the food evenly from all angles.
Benefits of Air Fryer Roasted Zucchini and Squash
Roasting zucchini and squash in an air fryer offers several benefits. Firstly, the air fryer’s high heat and rapid air circulation help to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Furthermore, roasting vegetables in an air fryer helps to retain their natural nutrients. The short cooking time and minimal exposure to heat help to preserve the vitamins and minerals present in zucchini and squash.
Lastly, air fryer roasted zucchini and squash is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. You can serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for salads and pasta dishes.
Conclusion
Air fryer roasted zucchini and squash is a delicious and healthy side dish that you can easily prepare in your kitchen. By following the simple instructions outlined in this article, you’ll be able to enjoy crispy and flavorful zucchini and squash rounds in no time. So, why not give this recipe a try and experience the benefits of using an air fryer for cooking?