Roasting Butternut Squash: Air Fryer Magic

Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, pasta, tacos, and even desserts. Roasting it in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to cook this winter vegetable, taking half the time it would in a regular oven. This article will explore the benefits of using an air fryer to roast butternut squash, the different ways to prepare it, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the perfect crispy and tender butternut squash.

How to roast butternut squash in an air fryer

Roasting butternut squash in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare this tasty and versatile vegetable. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving perfectly roasted butternut squash in your air fryer.

Ingredients:

• Butternut squash (whole or pre-cut)
• Olive oil (or avocado oil, melted ghee, melted butter, or macadamia oil)
• Salt and pepper (optional)
• Other seasonings of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper)

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

If using a whole butternut squash, start by peeling it with a vegetable peeler. Then, cut off the ends and slice the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds. If you prefer, you can also leave the peel on and remove it after cooking.

Next, cut the squash into cubes. For air frying, it is recommended to cut the squash into 1-inch or 1.5-cm sized cubes. Cutting the squash into even-sized pieces will ensure that it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Season the Squash

Place the cubed butternut squash in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil (or your preferred alternative) and add your desired seasonings. Toss the squash well to ensure that all the pieces are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket

Transfer the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket. Spread the squash into a single layer, if possible. It is okay if the pieces overlap slightly, but try to avoid overcrowding the basket. This will ensure that the hot air can circulate properly and give you the best crisping and browning results.

Step 4: Air Fry the Squash

Set your air fryer to the desired temperature and cooking time, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Here are some temperature and timing guidelines:

• 380°F/193°C for about 18 minutes (shaking the basket every few minutes)
• 340°F for 20 to 23 minutes (shaking the basket a few times during cooking)
• 390°F for 20 minutes (shaking well at the 10-minute mark)
• 180°C/356°F for 15 minutes (cubed squash) or 30 minutes (halved squash)

Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and ripeness of your squash cubes, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. Be sure to check on the squash periodically to ensure it doesn't overcook.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the butternut squash is fork-tender and golden, it's ready to serve! You can enjoy it as a simple side dish, or get creative and add it to salads, soups, curries, tacos, and more.

Tips:

• If you're short on time, consider buying pre-cut butternut squash at the grocery store.
• For a sweet and savory flavor, try tossing the squash with maple syrup or honey before air frying.
• To test if the squash is done, pierce it with a toothpick or sharp knife. It should slide in without resistance, but the squash should not be mushy.
• For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and shake the basket periodically during cooking to ensure even browning.
• Store leftover roasted squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Enjoy your perfectly roasted butternut squash, and feel free to experiment with different seasonings and serving ideas!

How to prepare butternut squash for air frying

Ingredients

You will need:

• Butternut squash (pre-cut or whole)
• Olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Brown sugar (optional)
• Cinnamon (optional)

Method

• Cut the butternut squash: If you have bought a whole butternut squash, use a sharp knife to cut it in half lengthways. If you are making cubed butternut squash, carefully slice the skin from the outside of the squash, then slice the squash in half lengthways. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. If you are making roasted butternut squash halves, place the two halves onto a baking tray, skin side down. If you are making cubed butternut squash, cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
• Season the butternut squash: Place the butternut squash into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. If you are making cubed butternut squash, toss the squash to coat evenly. If you are making roasted butternut squash halves, use your hands or a pastry brush to rub the oil and seasoning across the exposed butternut squash.
• Cook the butternut squash: Place the butternut squash into the air fryer basket. If you are making cubed butternut squash, spread the squash into a single layer. If you are making roasted butternut squash halves, place the pieces of butternut squash skin side down into the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) and cook for 15-30 minutes, depending on your chosen method.
• Serve: Enjoy your air-fried butternut squash!

Tips

• You can add other seasonings to your butternut squash, such as garlic powder, chilli powder, paprika, or cinnamon.
• If you are short on time, you can buy pre-cut butternut squash at the grocery store.
• You can also freeze uncooked or cooked butternut squash for up to 3 months.

How to serve air-fried butternut squash

Air-fried butternut squash is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas:

As a Side Dish

Serve the air-fried butternut squash as a simple, healthy side dish for a variety of meals. It pairs well with proteins such as roasted chicken, crispy baked pork chops, or turkey breast. It can also be served alongside other sides like green beans, cranberries, almonds, or smashed potatoes.

In Salads

Add some air-fried butternut squash to your favourite salad or Buddha bowl. It goes particularly well with fall-based salads and can be used in a Butternut Squash and Quinoa Salad—a perfect Thanksgiving side dish.

In Pasta Dishes

Include the air-fried butternut squash in pasta dishes like pasta bakes, risottos, or even bolognese.

In Soups, Stews, and Curries

The roasted butternut squash can be scooped out and blended with stock or broth to make a creamy soup. It can also be added to your favourite stews and curries to give them a sweet and savoury twist.

In Breakfast Dishes

Try adding the squash to scrambled eggs or a breakfast hash, or incorporating it into a vegan frittata or omelette.

In Mexican Cuisine

Use the air-fried butternut squash in tacos, burritos, enchiladas, wraps, or paninis.

As a Holiday Side

The sweet and savoury flavour of air-fried butternut squash makes it an excellent side dish for Christmas or Thanksgiving.

How to store leftover air-fried butternut squash

Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in salads, soups, curries, and more. It is a great option to meal prep and store for later use. Here are some tips on how to store leftover air-fried butternut squash to keep it fresh and tasty:

Storing in the Fridge

Leftover air-fried butternut squash can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It is best to consume it within 3 to 5 days for optimal taste and texture. This method is perfect for those who want to add butternut squash to their meals throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to store butternut squash for an extended period, freezing is a great option. First, place the leftover squash pieces on a baking tray and flash-freeze them. Then, transfer the frozen pieces into a freezer bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

Reheating

When you're ready to enjoy your butternut squash again, simply add it back to the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F/190°C until warm and slightly crisp. You can also sauté it with a little oil or microwave it, but it won't regain the same crispness.

Things to Note

• It is essential to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket when cooking butternut squash. This ensures proper air circulation, which is necessary for the squash to caramelize and crisp evenly.
• The cooking time may vary depending on your specific air fryer, so it's a good idea to monitor the squash the first time you use this method.
• Butternut squash is best stored in cool, dry, and dark conditions. Originally, they were stored in cellars to provide food during the winter, so a pantry or cool cabinet is ideal.

By following these simple storage instructions, you can enjoy your air-fried butternut squash for longer and incorporate it into various dishes whenever you like!

Tips for roasting butternut squash in an air fryer

Roasting butternut squash in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this winter vegetable. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:

Prepare the butternut squash:

• You can buy pre-cut butternut squash to save time, or you can cut it yourself. Choose a squash that is fairly even in shape/width to make it easier to chop into even-sized pieces.
• If cutting the squash yourself, use a sharp knife to cut off the ends, then carefully slice the skin from the outside.
• Cut the squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.
• For cubed squash, dice the squash into 1-inch or 1.5-inch sized cubes. For roasted halves, place the two halves skin side down in the air fryer basket.
• If you are peeling the squash, use a vegetable peeler or a knife. The peel is edible, but it becomes quite papery once cooked, so it is recommended to peel it.

Season the squash:

• Drizzle olive oil or avocado oil over the squash and toss to coat. You can also use melted ghee, melted butter, or macadamia oil.
• Season with salt and pepper, and any other desired spices. Some suggested seasonings include garlic powder, chilli powder, cinnamon, paprika, and cayenne pepper. You can also try maple syrup, brown sugar, or honey for a hint of sweetness.

Cook in the air fryer:

• Place the squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer, if possible, to ensure even cooking. It is okay if the pieces overlap slightly, but you may need to cook them in batches or shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
• Cook at a temperature between 380F/193C and 400F/204C for 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your squash and the desired level of doneness. Smaller pieces will cook faster, and you may need to add more time for larger pieces.
• Shake the basket a few times while cooking to ensure even browning and cooking.
• The squash is done when it is fork-tender and golden brown.

Storing and serving:

• Store leftover squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Butternut squash makes a great side dish and can be added to salads, grain bowls, soups, wraps, curries, stews, and more. You can also puree it for a sauce or mash it and treat it like mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried butternut squash!

Frequently asked questions