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

Squash cooked in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this tasty vegetable. You can use a variety of squashes, including butternut, acorn, and yellow squash, and cook them whole or sliced. The air fryer yields a nicely browned, slightly soft, and flavorful squash in a fraction of the time it would take to bake in an oven.

How to cut and prepare squash for the air fryer

Preparing squash for the air fryer is simple and quick. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut and prepare squash:

First, select the type of squash you want to cook. Popular options include butternut, acorn, delicata, or yellow squash. For yellow squash, it is preferable to use small-to-medium-sized squash, as they fit better in the air fryer.

Wash the squash to remove any dirt or residue. Then, use a sharp chef's knife to cut the squash. The method of cutting depends on the type of squash and your desired outcome.

For yellow squash, cut off both ends, then slice it in half lengthwise. After that, cut each half into slices about 3/4-inch thick. If you want to cook the squash whole, you can skip this step and simply rub the whole squash with oil and seasoning before placing it in the air fryer.

For butternut squash, cut off both ends and then cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and fibrous strings inside. You can then further cut the squash into cubes or slices, depending on your preference.

For acorn squash, cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and fibrous material with a spoon. You can also peel the squash if desired, although it is not necessary.

Once the squash is cut, place the slices or cubes into a bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with your choice of seasonings. Toss the squash to ensure an even coating of oil and seasoning. You can also add the oil and seasoning directly to the air fryer basket and toss the squash in the basket to avoid making a mess.

Place the seasoned squash into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring proper air circulation. It is okay if the slices overlap slightly, but avoid overcrowding the basket.

Set the air fryer to the desired temperature and cooking time, depending on the type of squash and your desired level of doneness. For example, yellow squash cooks at 400°F for about 8 minutes, while butternut squash cooks at 340°F for 20-23 minutes.

That's it! You now have perfectly cooked squash prepared in the air fryer. Enjoy your delicious and healthy side dish!

How to cook squash in the air fryer

Ingredients:

• Squash (any type, but yellow squash, zucchini, and butternut squash are popular)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Any other seasonings of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, brown sugar)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375-400°F.
• Cut off the ends of the squash and slice it in half lengthwise. For thicker squash like butternut squash, you can also remove the skin.
• Cut the squash into slices or cubes. For slices, aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 an inch thick. For cubes, about 1.5 cm.
• Place the squash slices or cubes into a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add salt and pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Toss to coat the squash evenly.
• Transfer the squash to the air fryer basket, ensuring it is in a single layer as much as possible. It's okay if the slices overlap slightly.
• Air fry the squash for 8-25 minutes at the set temperature, depending on the type and size of squash. Check the squash after 5-8 minutes and toss the basket to ensure even cooking. The squash is done when it is golden brown and crispy, and can be easily pierced with a fork.
• Season with additional salt and pepper if desired, and serve.

Tips:

• Choose small to medium-sized squash for the best flavor.
• Use fresh, in-season squash for the best taste.
• Air fry in batches if you have a lot of squash, to ensure even cooking.
• For a crunchy coating, try an air fryer southern fried squash recipe.

How to store leftover squash

Storing leftover squash depends on the type of squash and how long you want to store it.

Storing Summer Squash

Summer squash includes zucchini, cocozelle, yellow crookneck, straightneck, white scallop, and patty pan varieties. Summer squash has a shorter shelf life than winter squash and requires different storage methods.

• Summer squash can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-4 days. Place it in the crisper drawer in a plastic storage bag or rigid container to retain moisture.
• To store summer squash in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, wrap it in a towel and place it in a perforated bag.
• Summer squash can be frozen and stored in an airtight container or plastic bag in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• Summer squash can also be dehydrated or freeze-dried.

Storing Winter Squash

Winter squash includes pumpkin, acorn, buttercup, and banana squash. These varieties have hard skins and can be stored for longer periods.

• Store whole winter squash in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a root cellar. Do not store them in the refrigerator as this is not suitable for long-term storage.
• Cooked or pureed winter squash can be stored in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
• Winter squash can be frozen and stored in plastic bags or airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Winter squash can also be dehydrated, freeze-dried, or canned.

Storing Leftover Cooked Squash

If you have leftover cooked squash, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, cook in a preheated air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3-5 minutes until warmed through.

How to reheat leftover squash

Reheating leftover squash in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get your leftovers tasting almost as good as new. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Firstly, you will want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F. While you are waiting for it to heat up, take your leftover squash out of the fridge and choose your seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or try something more complex. For example, a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. You could also try a pinch of salt and cinnamon, or pumpkin pie spice.

Once your air fryer is preheated, take your squash and cut it into slices. You can cut them into 3/4-inch slices or, if you want to be precise, cut them lengthwise into slices between 1/4 and 1/2 an inch thick. Place the slices into a bowl and toss them with 2 teaspoons of cooking oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper. You can also add the seasonings directly to the air fryer basket, but you may lose some through the holes.

Now, transfer the squash to the air fryer basket and spread them out into a single layer. Slide the basket into the fryer and leave them to cook for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, check on them. They should be browned but still slightly soft in the middle. Toss the basket and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Your squash leftovers should now be warmed through and crispy. However, if they need a little longer, simply leave them in for another minute or so. This method should take no longer than 10 minutes in total. Enjoy!

What to serve with squash

There are many options for what to serve alongside squash. Here are some ideas:

Proteins

Squash is low in protein, so serving it with a protein-rich dish will help you achieve a balanced meal. Chicken, pork, and fish are all good options. For example, you could serve squash with:

• Roasted chicken
• Crispy baked pork chops
• Chicken parmesan pasta
• Chicken breast
• Baked ham
• Turkey breast
• Chicken thighs with apples
• Turkey meatballs
• Prime rib
• Fish and chips
• Bouillabaisse (a French fish stew)

Salads

The buttery texture of squash pairs well with a crunchy and refreshing salad. For example, a tuna salad made with canned tuna, mayonnaise, onions, fresh greens, and herbs.

Soups

Soup is another great option to serve with squash. Here are some ideas:

• Tofu noodle soup
• Lanzhou beef noodle soup
• Gumbo (a Louisiana soup made with meat, shellfish, bell peppers, celery, and onions)

Other Sides

Some other side dishes that go well with squash include:

• Baked beans
• Mac and cheese
• Tater tots
• Mashed potatoes
• Risotto
• Scalloped potatoes
• Sweet potato/apple dish

Frequently asked questions