If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty veggie side dish, look no further than butternut squash! While the traditional method of roasting in the oven can take up to an hour, the air fryer can cook butternut squash in half the time. Plus, it’s a simple and quick method that you can easily do at home.
Not only is butternut squash delicious, it’s also packed with nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. By air frying it, you can keep it healthy and avoid using excess oil.
Key Takeaways:
- Butternut squash can be cooked in the air fryer for a quick and healthy side dish.
- Air frying butternut squash takes half the time of traditional roasting.
- The air fryer method allows for a crispy exterior without excess oil.
Air Frying Butternut Squash – Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for a tasty and healthy veggie side dish? Try air-frying butternut squash! It’s a simple and quick method that you can easily do at home. Follow these steps to cook delicious air-fried butternut squash.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make air-fried butternut squash, you will need:
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F and preheat for a few minutes while you prepare the butternut squash.
Step 3: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Peel the butternut squash and slice it into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Remove the seeds and discard. Cut the squash into bite-sized cubes.
Step 4: Toss the Squash in Olive Oil and Seasoning
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the squash is evenly coated in oil and seasoning.
Step 5: Air Fry the Squash
Place the butternut squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the squash halfway through the cooking process. The air-fried butternut squash should be golden brown and tender when finished.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the air-fried butternut squash from the air fryer and serve it hot. It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork. Enjoy your healthy and delicious homemade veggie side dish!
Preparing the Butternut Squash for Air Frying
Before we start cooking, we need to prepare the star of our dish – the butternut squash! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 medium-sized butternut squash
- Sharp knife
- Peeler
- Spoon
First, wash the butternut squash thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully slice off both ends of the squash. Next, cut the squash in half lengthwise.
Once you have your two halves, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh from each half. Now, take your peeler and gently peel the skin off of each half, making sure to remove any green parts or blemishes.
Once you have both halves peeled, cut them into equal-sized cubes, about 1 inch in size. This will ensure even cooking in the air fryer and make your dish look more appealing when served.
Now that you have your butternut squash perfectly prepared, it’s time to move on to the cooking process.
Cooking the Butternut Squash in the Air Fryer
Once you’ve prepared the butternut squash, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s how to cook butternut squash in the air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
- Place the butternut squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Lightly spray the butternut squash cubes with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
- Check the butternut squash for doneness. Pierce a piece with a fork; it should be tender but not mushy. If it needs more time, continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments until it’s done to your liking.
- Remove the butternut squash from the air fryer and serve hot as a tasty and healthy veggie side dish!
Cooking butternut squash in the air fryer is a quick and simple method that results in a delicious and healthy dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen!
Conclusion
In conclusion, air frying butternut squash is a simple and quick method that yields delicious and healthy results. With just a few steps, you can have a tasty veggie side dish ready to enjoy at home. Not only is it a great alternative to traditional cooking methods, but it also preserves the nutrients and flavors of the butternut squash.
So, if you’re looking for a new way to cook butternut squash, give air frying a try. You won’t be disappointed!
FAQ
Q: How long should I cook butternut squash in the air fryer?
A: The cooking time for butternut squash in the air fryer can vary depending on the size of the squash and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, it usually takes around 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to cook butternut squash cubes until they are tender and slightly browned.
Q: Do I need to peel the butternut squash before air frying?
A: Yes, it is recommended to peel the butternut squash before air frying. The skin of the squash can be tough and not pleasant to eat after cooking. It’s best to remove the skin beforehand to ensure a better texture and taste.
Q: Can I add spices or seasonings to the butternut squash before air frying?
A: Absolutely! Adding spices or seasonings to the butternut squash before air frying can enhance the flavor of the dish. You can try using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs and spices. Just toss the squash cubes with the seasonings before placing them in the air fryer.
Q: Can I use frozen butternut squash in the air fryer?
A: While it is possible to use frozen butternut squash in the air fryer, it may not yield the best results. Frozen squash tends to release more moisture, which can affect the texture and crispiness when cooked in the air fryer. It is recommended to use fresh or thawed butternut squash for better results.
Q: What can I serve with air-fried butternut squash?
A: Air-fried butternut squash makes a delicious and healthy veggie side dish. It pairs well with various protein options such as grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even tofu. You can also serve it alongside a salad or as a topping for a grain bowl. The possibilities are endless!
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