If you’re looking for a way to make your meals healthier and tastier with minimal effort, the air fryer is your new best friend. Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a quick and easy way to prepare a variety of dishes with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for air-fried butternut squash that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ⅰ. Time Overview:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ⅱ. Ingredients:
Butternut Squash: One peeled and diced squash, yielding about four cups of cubes.
Olive Oil: Use it to coat the squash before air frying, then add a bit more while tossing the squash with the seasonings.
Spices: Onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and salt.
Brown Sugar: Optional, but a small amount can enhance the flavor.
Ⅲ. How to Make Air Fryer Butternut Squash:
1. Peeling and Dicing:
Begin by peeling the butternut squash. Use a sturdy vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin.
Cut off both ends of the squash for stability.
Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
Cut the squash into uniform cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. Ensuring that the pieces are of similar size helps them cook evenly.
2. Preheating the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is important as it ensures that the squash starts cooking immediately when placed in the basket, which helps achieve a crispy exterior.
3. Coating with Olive Oil:
Place the butternut squash cubes into a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the squash. The oil not only helps the spices adhere to the squash but also contributes to the crispiness of the final dish.
Toss the squash cubes gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil.
4. Adding Spices:
Measure out the spices: onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and salt.
Sprinkle the spices evenly over the oiled squash cubes.
Use a spoon or your hands to mix the squash until each piece is thoroughly coated with the spice mixture.
If desired, add a small amount of brown sugar. Sprinkle it over the squash and mix again. The brown sugar will caramelize during cooking, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances the savory spices.
5. Placing in the Air Fryer Basket:
Arrange the seasoned squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket to allow hot air to circulate freely around each piece, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
6. Cooking:
Set the air fryer to cook for 20-25 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your squash cubes and your specific air fryer model.
Halfway through the cooking time, pause the air fryer and shake the basket to toss the squash cubes. This helps them cook evenly on all sides. Alternatively, use tongs or a spatula to turn the pieces over.
7. Checking for Doneness:
After 20 minutes, check the squash for doneness. The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork and slightly crispy on the outside.
If needed, cook for an additional 5 minutes, checking frequently to prevent burning.
8. Serving:
Once cooked, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer basket and transfer it to a serving dish.
Enjoy your air-fried butternut squash immediately for the best texture and flavor. Serve it as a side dish, a salad topping, or even as a healthy snack.
Ⅳ. Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to peel the butternut squash before roasting?
Yes, peeling the butternut squash is necessary for this recipe as it ensures the squash cooks evenly and has the best texture. The skin of butternut squash is quite tough and won’t soften during cooking, so it’s best to remove it for a better eating experience.
What can I serve with air-fried butternut squash?
Air-fried butternut squash pairs well with a variety of dishes. It makes a great side for roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. You can also use it as a topping for salads, adding a warm and hearty element to your greens. Additionally, it’s a fantastic addition to grain bowls, offering a nutritious and flavorful component. If you’re looking for a simple and healthy snack, enjoy the air-fried squash on its own.
How do I store leftover butternut squash?
Store any leftover butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the squash back in the air fryer for a few minutes. This method helps restore its crispiness, making it taste just as good as when it was freshly cooked.
Ⅴ. Customizing Your Butternut Squash:
One of the joys of cooking with an air fryer is the ability to customize your recipes. For this butternut squash recipe, feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings. For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes. If you prefer a more herbaceous flavor, try adding dried thyme or rosemary. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the recipe to suit your personal taste.
Ⅵ. Conclusion:
By following this simple air fryer recipe, you can enjoy a tasty and nutritious dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer user or just getting started, this butternut squash recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of spices, the slight sweetness from the brown sugar, and the perfect texture achieved through air frying make this dish a winner. So grab your air fryer and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!
