Air-Fried Pumpkin: A Quick, Easy, And Healthy Treat

Roasting pumpkin in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this versatile vegetable. Pumpkins are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, and roasting them in an air fryer brings out their natural sweetness. You can season them in a variety of ways to match any meal you are serving them with.

How to prepare a pumpkin for air frying

Preparing a pumpkin for air frying is a simple process, but it does require a few steps to ensure the best results. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a pumpkin for air frying:

Step 1: Choose the Right Pumpkin

When selecting a pumpkin for air frying, look for a small to medium-sized pumpkin with a thick skin. Some recommended varieties include Long Island Cheese, New England Pie, Butternut Squash, Sugar Pumpkin, Cinderella, and Fairytale Pumpkins.

Step 2: Wash and Dry the Pumpkin

Before cutting into the pumpkin, wash the outer surface with water to remove any dirt or residue. Then, dry it thoroughly with a kitchen towel.

Step 3: Cut the Pumpkin

Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the pumpkin in half vertically. Scoop out the seeds and fibre from both halves with a spoon. You can choose to roast the seeds separately as a snack. Then, cut the pumpkin into wedges or cubes, about 1-inch thick. You can leave the peel on or peel it, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Season the Pumpkin

Place the pumpkin pieces in a large bowl. Add your choice of oil, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil. You can also add seasonings like salt, pepper, cinnamon, paprika, chilli powder, or garlic powder. Toss the pumpkin pieces well to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to between 360°F and 400°F (180°C to 200°C). Preheating is important to ensure even cooking and to reduce the overall cooking time.

Step 6: Arrange the Pumpkin in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned pumpkin pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the pieces are not touching each other to allow for even cooking. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the pumpkin in batches.

Now that your pumpkin is prepared, you can proceed to cook it in the air fryer according to your desired recipe. Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried pumpkin!

Seasoning options for air fryer roast pumpkin

There are many seasoning options to choose from when preparing roast pumpkin in an air fryer. The most popular option is to season the pumpkin with salt and pepper, and then add other seasonings such as thyme, paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, garlic powder, rosemary, or mixed spice. A sprinkling of brown sugar can also add a sweet, caramelized flavour to the roast pumpkin.

For a spicier version, you can add red chilli powder or paprika. Curry powder is another option for a curry roast flavour, or you can add the basic spices of turmeric, cumin, and garam masala.

If you want to make the roast pumpkin sweeter, you can add maple syrup or brown sugar. You can also garnish the roasted pumpkin with a lemon tahini sauce or a garlic herb yoghurt dipping sauce.

How to cook pumpkin in an air fryer

Ingredients

• 2 lb pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon oil (olive, avocado, or vegetable)
• Seasoning (salt, pepper, cinnamon, paprika, chili powder, curry powder, brown sugar, maple syrup, dried herbs, etc.)

Method

• Prepare the pumpkin: Wash the outside of the pumpkin and dry it with a kitchen towel. Cut the pumpkin in half vertically, then use a spoon to remove the seeds and fibre. You can choose to peel the pumpkin or leave the skin on. Cut the pumpkin into 1-inch cubes, wedges, or fries.
• Marinate the pumpkin: In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin pieces with oil and your choice of seasonings.
• Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 360-400°F (180-200°C).
• Place the pumpkin in the air fryer: Arrange the pumpkin pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
• Cook the pumpkin: Air fry the pumpkin for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until it is tender and golden.
• Serve: Enjoy your roasted pumpkin as a side dish, salad topping, or snack. You can also puree the pumpkin or use it in other recipes.

Tips:

• Most varieties of pumpkin and squash can be air-fried, but smaller varieties may be easier to prepare and work with.
• You can buy pre-cut pumpkin wedges or chunks to save time and effort.
• To make cutting the pumpkin easier, you can soften it in the microwave or oven before cutting.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the pumpkin in batches if needed.
• Cut the pumpkin into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
• You can adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the pumpkin pieces. Smaller pieces may take around 10 minutes, while larger pieces may take up to 20 minutes.

How to store and reheat leftover roast pumpkin

Storing Leftover Roast Pumpkin

Once you've roasted your pumpkin, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you don't have an airtight container, a sealable plastic bag will do the trick.

If you want to keep your roast pumpkin for longer, you can freeze it! Put your leftover pumpkin in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Leftover Roast Pumpkin

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover roast pumpkin, there are a few ways to reheat it:

• Air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pumpkin in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pumpkin cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: If you're in a hurry, you can pop your leftover pumpkin in the microwave for a quick reheat. It should only take a minute or less to warm through.

Tips for Reheating

• If you're freezing your leftover pumpkin, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• If you're reheating in the air fryer or oven, it's a good idea to check on your pumpkin halfway through the cooking time to ensure it doesn't overcook.
• You can also get creative and use your leftover roast pumpkin in other dishes, like a pumpkin soup or puree, or add it to a salad, pasta, or pizza!

What to serve with roast pumpkin

Roasted pumpkin is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into a salad, soup, or sandwich. Here are some ideas for what to serve with roasted pumpkin:

As a Side Dish

Roasted pumpkin can be served as a side dish to a roast, such as roast beef, pork, or chicken. It also pairs well with casseroles, crumbed chicken, sausages, steak, and more.

In a Salad

Add roasted pumpkin to a salad with greens like kale or spinach, or try a heartier fall salad with feta and walnuts.

In a Soup

Roasting the pumpkin before adding it to a soup can bring out more flavor. Try a simple pumpkin soup or get creative with additions like curry or coconut.

In a Bowl or Grain Bowl

Toss roasted pumpkin into grain bowls or serve it as a side with rice or quinoa.

As a Snack or Appetizer

Roasted pumpkin can be enjoyed as a snack on its own or served as an appetizer with a dip. Try it with a lemon tahini sauce or garlic herb yogurt dipping sauce.

In a Main Course

Roasted pumpkin can be added to pastas, pizzas, or curries. It also works well in vegetarian dishes, such as vegan curried pumpkin soup or coconut pumpkin halwa.

Frequently asked questions