Air Fryer Lita Squash Recipe: Quick & Healthy 20-Minute Side Dish

Looking for a simple and healthy way to cook Lita squash? This Air Fryer Lita Squash recipe is the answer! In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious side dish with perfectly browned edges and tender bites that taste just like zucchini. It’s a great summer recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and made with just a few basic ingredients.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Lita Squash

• With just a few simple steps—wash, chop, season, and air fry—you’ll have a delicious veggie side dish ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you don’t feel like spending much time in the kitchen. The air fryer does all the hard work for you!

• A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, and pepper bring out the natural sweetness of the squash. The flavors are simple but bold, letting the freshness of the squash shine. You can even customize the seasonings to suit your taste.

• Lita squash is low in calories and packed with nutrients, making this recipe a great option if you’re eating clean. It’s also naturally gluten-free and vegan (if made oil-free), so it fits a variety of diets. Plus, no need to peel—it’s extra easy!

• The air fryer gives the squash that perfect golden texture without needing to deep fry or roast for a long time. You get that satisfying bite without any heavy coating. It’s a texture win with every piece.

• Lita squash is a seasonal treat, and this is the perfect recipe to highlight it. If you love zucchini, you’ll love this too—it tastes very similar! This recipe is a great way to try a new veggie while sticking to flavors you already enjoy.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Lita Squash

• Lita squash – A tender summer squash with edible skin and a mild flavor, similar to zucchini.

• Olive oil – Adds richness and helps the squash brown beautifully in the air fryer.

• Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.

• Black pepper – Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor.

• Garlic powder – Brings a warm, savory taste that pairs perfectly with squash.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Lita Squash

• Air fryer – The star of this recipe! It crisps the squash perfectly while keeping the inside tender.

• Knife – To cut the squash into bite-sized cubes.

• Cutting board – Makes chopping clean and easy.

• Mixing bowl – Used to toss the squash with olive oil and seasonings.

• Measuring spoons – Helpful if you want to measure out the olive oil and spices.

• Spatula or tongs – Great for shaking or stirring the squash during cooking.

How To Make Air Fryer Lita Squash

• Start by washing the Lita squash really well to remove any dirt.

• Cut off the stems, then slice each squash in half and chop into cubes.

• Place the squash cubes in a mixing bowl.

• Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

• Toss everything together so the squash is evenly coated.

• Pour the squash into the air fryer basket in a single layer.

• Cook at 400°F for 20 minutes, pausing halfway through to shake the basket or stir the squash.

• Check doneness a few minutes before the timer ends—smaller amounts may cook faster.

• Once it’s golden brown and fork-tender, remove from the air fryer and serve!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a healthy side dish with grilled chicken thigh, teppanyaki steak, or roasted salmon.

• Add to a grain bowl with fluffy quinoa, chickpeas, and creamy hummus for a light vegetarian meal.

• Toss into a corn and avocado salad for extra texture and flavor.

• Use as an appetizer with a sprinkle of shredded parmesan or a drizzle of lemon juice.

• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Tips For Success

• Choose fresh, firm squash. Lita squash should feel firm and have smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any that feel soft or have dark spots. Fresh squash gives the best texture when cooked.

• No need to peel! The skin of Lita squash is thin and completely edible, just like zucchini. Skipping the peeling saves time and keeps the texture just right. If you prefer a softer bite, you can peel it, but it’s totally optional.

• Cut squash evenly. Try to cube the squash into even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. Smaller pieces will cook faster and get crispier, while larger pieces may stay soft in the center. Uniform cuts give the best results.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. If you’re cooking a lot of squash, do it in batches or stir halfway through. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and make the squash steam instead of crisp. A single layer works best for browning.

• Shake halfway for even cooking. Shaking the air fryer basket halfway through helps all sides cook evenly. You can also stir gently with a spatula to make sure nothing sticks. This step is key to getting that perfect golden finish.

• Adjust timing for your quantity. If you’re cooking less than a pound of squash, start checking a few minutes early. A smaller batch will cook faster. On the other hand, if your air fryer is packed, it may need a couple extra minutes.

• Season to taste. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic, but feel free to add your favorites. Try paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a dash of cayenne for some heat. This recipe is easy to customize.

• Test for doneness. Air fryers vary, so taste a piece at the end of the cook time. If it’s not tender enough, pop it back in for 2–3 more minutes. You want it to be soft on the inside with lightly crisp edges.

• Use it in other dishes. Leftover air fryer Lita squash can be added to pasta, wraps, or even omelets. It keeps its flavor and texture well when stored properly. See the storage section below for more details.

Variations And Substitutions

• Change up the seasonings. While garlic powder, salt, and pepper are a great base, there are so many ways to switch it up! Try Italian seasoning for a herby flavor, or go smoky with paprika and cumin. Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can even sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top after cooking for a cheesy, dairy-free twist.

• Make it cheesy. After the squash is done cooking, toss it with grated Parmesan cheese while it’s still hot. It will melt slightly and stick to the squash for a salty, savory finish. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan Parmesan alternative or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for crunch.

• Add a citrus twist. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavor. This is especially nice if you’re pairing the squash with grilled meat or seafood. It also works well if you’re adding the squash to a salad or grain bowl.

• Swap the oil. Olive oil is classic, but avocado oil, melted ghee, or even sesame oil can be used for a different flavor profile. You can also make it completely oil-free if you’re looking for a low-fat option—the squash still tastes great when air fried with just seasonings.

• Try other squash varieties. If you can’t find Lita squash, this recipe works beautifully with zucchini, yellow squash, or any other tender summer squash. Just follow the same steps, and adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size and water content.

• Make it a meal. Combine the cooked squash with cooked pasta, rice, or couscous for a filling dish. Add some feta, chickpeas, or grilled chicken for protein. It’s a great base for building a healthy, satisfying meal.

• Include fresh herbs. Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, dill, or thyme after cooking. They add a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the roasted squash beautifully. You can even mix herbs into the oil before air frying.

• Boost the flavor with garlic or onion. Add minced garlic or thinly sliced onions to the bowl with the squash before air frying. They’ll roast up nicely alongside the squash and add extra depth to the dish. Just be sure to slice thin so they cook in the same amount of time.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover Lita squash in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure the squash is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

• Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked squash if needed. Spread the cooled squash on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may soften after thawing.

• Reheating in the Air Fryer: To re-crisp the squash, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes. This brings back the texture better than the microwave. Avoid overcrowding the basket for best results.

• Reheating in the Microwave: You can also reheat the squash in the microwave for about 1 minute. It won’t be crispy, but it will still taste great. This is the quickest option if you’re in a hurry.

• Reheating on the Stovetop: For another option, warm the squash in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. Add a splash of olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Lita squash taste like?

Lita squash has a very mild and slightly sweet flavor, very similar to zucchini. In fact, many people can’t tell the difference once it’s cooked. The texture is tender with a bit of a bite when air fried, making it perfect as a side dish or tossed into salads and bowls. It’s a great way to enjoy a seasonal vegetable that’s both healthy and versatile.

Do I need to peel Lita squash before cooking?

No, you don’t need to peel Lita squash. The skin is thin and completely edible, just like other summer squash such as zucchini or yellow squash. Leaving the skin on saves time and adds a bit of texture. If you prefer a softer texture or want to remove the skin for appearance, peeling is optional.

How do I know when the squash is done cooking in the air fryer?

The squash is ready when it’s tender in the middle and lightly browned on the outside. You can test for doneness by poking a cube with a fork—it should slide in easily. Also, give one a quick taste to see if it’s to your liking. If it needs more time, just air fry for an extra 2–3 minutes.

Can I make this recipe without oil?

Yes, you can make this recipe completely oil-free. The squash will still cook and brown nicely in the air fryer, though it may not get quite as crispy. If you’re following a low-fat or oil-free diet, just skip the oil and toss the squash with seasonings only. The natural flavor of the squash will still shine through.

What’s the best way to cut Lita squash for air frying?

Cut the squash into uniform cubes so they cook evenly in the air fryer. First, cut off the ends, then slice in half lengthwise and cut into bite-sized pieces. Keeping the sizes consistent helps ensure that all pieces cook at the same rate. If some are smaller than others, they may become more browned or crispy than the rest.

Can I double the recipe?

You can double the recipe, but it’s best to cook in batches if you’re using a standard-size air fryer. Overcrowding the basket will cause the squash to steam instead of roast, which affects the texture. Cook in two rounds, or use a larger air fryer if you want to prepare a big batch at once. Stirring or shaking halfway through is also more effective with a smaller batch.

How do I keep the squash from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy squash, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. The hot air needs to circulate around each piece to crisp it properly. Also, make sure the squash is dry before seasoning and cooking—pat it dry with a paper towel after washing. If your squash releases a lot of moisture during cooking, give the basket an extra shake or cook a few minutes longer.

Can I use other squash types in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works with zucchini, yellow squash, pattypan squash, or any tender summer squash. Just keep the cooking time similar and check for doneness based on texture. It’s a great base recipe for any summer squash variety you have on hand.

Other Easy Squash Recipes

Pan Fried Zucchini and Yellow Squash – This quick and easy skillet recipe brings out the natural sweetness of zucchini and squash with golden, tender edges.

Whole Roasted Spaghetti Squash – Oven roasting a whole spaghetti squash makes it simple to scoop out tender strands with minimal prep.

Ground Meat Spaghetti Squash Bowl – This hearty low-carb bowl pairs flavorful ground beef or turkey with spaghetti squash for a satisfying, veggie-packed meal.

Air Fried Yellow Squash Slices – These crispy yellow squash rounds are seasoned and air fried to perfection for a healthy, savory side.

Baked Acorn Squash Halves – Roasted until tender and caramelized, these acorn squash halves make a cozy and nutritious seasonal dish.

Roasted Chinese Opo Squash – This mild and juicy opo squash is oven roasted with simple seasonings for a tender, flavorful side.

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Turkey and Dried Fruit – A festive fall recipe filled with savory turkey, cranberries, and pecans baked inside sweet acorn squash.

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