Are you craving a mouthwatering side dish or snack that captures the essence of fall? Look no further than Air Fryer Butternut Squash. This recipe combines the wonderful taste and flavor of butternut squash with the convenience of your air fryer or Ninja Foodi. Get ready to indulge in a healthy treat that requires minimal effort!
The Perfect Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe
Fall and winter are the perfect seasons for enjoying winter squash, and the air fryer is here to take it to a whole new level. Traditionally, butternut squash is cooked in a slow cooker, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the crispiness and deliciousness of air fryer butternut squash.
Crispy Vegetables with Air Fryers
Yes, air fryers do make vegetables crispy! In fact, they give vegetables that irresistible roasted taste without the need for actual roasting. You can even add batter to vegetables in the air fryer, allowing you to experiment with new flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that different air fryers may have varying cooking times and temperatures, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your dish.
If you’re looking for that deep-fried flavor without the excess calories, why not try making Air Fryer Onion Rings? They’re a perfect complement to your air fryer butternut squash. The versatility of the air fryer extends to the Ninja Foodi as well, making this recipe a great addition to your collection of Ninja Foodi Recipes.
Choosing the Right Spray or Oil
When it comes to using spray or oil in your air fryer, I highly recommend Olive Oil Cooking Spray. It provides just the right amount of moisture with a light coat, significantly reducing the amount of oil needed compared to traditional methods. The key is to use a spray with a high smoke point to prevent any unwanted flavors.
Avoid using PAM Spray or similar sprays as they can damage the lining of your air fryer. Instead, opt for olive oil or grapeseed oil cooking spray. To enhance the flavor of your squash, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon. Grapeseed oil has a higher smoke point, making it an excellent choice for air frying.
Preparing the Butternut Squash
To ensure your butternut squash is fully cooked and roasted, it’s best to cut it into cubes or small chunks. This may require a sharp knife and a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. If you’re unsure how to handle butternut squash, there are helpful videos available that demonstrate easy preparation techniques. Whether you use fresh or frozen butternut squash, the result will be equally delicious.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Butternut Squash
To make Air Fryer Butternut Squash, you’ll need:
- Olive Oil Cooking Spray
- Butternut Squash
- Cinnamon
Feel free to add maple syrup and brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter taste. However, this recipe focuses on simplicity to keep the calorie count low. With just a few ingredients and a quick cooking time, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready in minutes. Each piece of squash will be fork-tender, offering a sweet flavor that makes it one of the best air fryer side dishes!
Storing Leftover Squash
If you have any leftover diced butternut squash, be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness. This way, you can enjoy it again later without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Using Pre-Cut Butternut Squash
If you prefer the convenience of pre-cut butternut squash, you’re in luck! This recipe works perfectly with pre-cut cubes, allowing you to enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort. Look for fresh or frozen pre-cut squash in your local grocery store during squash season.
More Air Fryer Squash Recipes
If you’re a fan of air fryer squash recipes, here are a couple more you should try:
- Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash: Make your favorite spaghetti squash in the air fryer to achieve a perfectly roasted flavor.
- Air Fried Yellow Squash: Coat your garden-fresh squash with a gluten-free breading, then use just a small amount of oil to prepare a delightful batch of air-fried squash.
Looking for oven-roasted butternut squash? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Check out this recipe that pairs perfectly with fall flavors like apple, maple, pumpkin, and cinnamon. It’s the ideal Thanksgiving side dish!
Enjoy this easy and healthy side dish that will impress your family and friends. For more air fryer products, be sure to browse through my Amazon Store! And remember, with Ekilove, you can always find the best recipes and tips to satisfy your culinary cravings. Happy cooking!
