Roasting Butternut Squash: Air Fryer Magic

Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to curries and risottos. It can be baked, roasted, or air-fried, but is air-frying butternut squash a viable option? Yes, it is not only possible but also a convenient and quicker way to cook this winter vegetable. Air-frying gives butternut squash a tender texture with lightly caramelized edges, and it can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs to enhance its sweet and savory flavor.

How to roast butternut squash halves in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Butternut squash
• Extra virgin olive oil (or melted ghee, melted butter or macadamia oil)
• Cracked black pepper (optional)
• Sea salt

Method:

First, cut the squash in half lengthways and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Place the two halves, skin side down, on a baking tray. Drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash and season with salt and pepper. Use your hands or a pastry brush to rub the oil and seasoning all over the exposed flesh of the squash.

Place the pieces of squash, skin side down, into the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 180 degrees celsius (356 Fahrenheit) and air fry for 30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your squash, so test with a fork to ensure it is tender. If not, cook for a further 5 minutes and test again.

Tips:

• For a sweet and spicy variation, add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the olive oil and whisk to combine before drizzling over the squash.
• If you want to add a little heat, create a spice mix using ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ¼ teaspoon chilli powder (or less, depending on your preference), ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes and 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional). Drizzle the squash with olive oil and scatter the spice mix over the top.
• For a simple, savoury version, season with salt and pepper and top with grated parmesan cheese halfway through cooking.
• You can also add other spices such as dried rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano or Italian seasoning.

How to roast cubed butternut squash in an air fryer

Roasting cubed 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 cooked squash every time.

Preparation

First, you will need to peel the butternut squash. This can be done with a vegetable peeler, or for a deeper peel, use a sharp knife. Next, cut off the ends of the squash and slice it in half lengthways. Use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds. Then, carefully slice the skin from the outside of the squash and dice it into cubes. The size of the cubes will depend on your preference, but aim for around 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes to ensure even cooking.

Seasoning

Place the cubed squash into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or avocado oil and toss to coat the cubes evenly. You can also add other seasonings at this point, such as garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or black pepper to taste. A touch of maple syrup or honey will give the squash a hint of sweetness. You can also experiment with spices like cumin, chilli powder, or Italian seasoning for a unique flavour profile.

Air Frying

Transfer the seasoned squash cubes to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with space between them. If your air fryer basket is small, it's okay if the cubes overlap slightly, but they may require a longer cooking time. Set the air fryer to 380-400°F (190-200°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and cooking. The squash is ready when it is golden brown and fork-tender.

Serving

Air-fried butternut squash makes a delicious and healthy side dish, perfect for salads, grain bowls, soups, and curries. It can also be served plain or added to wraps, tacos, and paninis. For a festive touch, drizzle with honey and sprinkle some toasted pecans on top. Enjoy!

How to make maple roasted butternut squash in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Butternut squash
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Maple syrup
• Cinnamon and allspice (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Method:

First, cut the butternut squash into halves lengthways and scoop out the seeds. Then, peel the squash and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl and add olive oil, onion powder, dry thyme, salt, and pepper. Combine well to season.

Next, set your air fryer to 375°F and preheat. Place parchment paper on the air fryer basket and spread out the seasoned butternut squash. Air fry for 20 minutes, turning the cubes at the 10-minute mark. At this point, add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup and stir well to coat the squash. Finish cooking and serve hot or warm.

Tips:

• You can save time by buying pre-cut butternut squash.
• Try to get the cubes uniform in size so they cook evenly.
• You may need to cook the butternut squash cubes in batches if you are making a large quantity.
• Do not overcook the butternut squash cubes, as they may dry out or become soggy.
• You can prepare this recipe ahead of time.
• For a spicy kick, add a touch of cayenne pepper.
• For fall flavors, add cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
• Use real maple syrup or, if you don't have any, honey or brown sugar.

How to make spicy butternut squash in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (olive oil, avocado oil, or melted ghee/butter)
• Spices: garlic powder, chilli powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, salt, and/or black pepper
• Optional: maple syrup/honey, grated parmesan cheese, and/or fresh parsley to garnish

Utensils:

• Sharp knife
• Spoon
• Air fryer
• Bowl
• Pastry brush (optional)

Method:

• Cut the butternut squash in half lengthways, then use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds.
• Peel the squash with a vegetable peeler.
• Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
• Place the cubes in a bowl and toss with the oil and spices until evenly coated.
• Transfer the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
• Air fry at between 380F/193C and 400F/204C for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes until golden and fork-tender.
• For an extra spicy kick, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the squash halfway through the cooking time.
• Serve with a garnish of fresh parsley and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey.

Tips:

• Buying pre-cut butternut squash will save time on preparation, but you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pieces.
• For even cooking, ensure the squash cubes are spread out in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• To test if the squash is cooked, pierce a cube with a fork; it should slide in easily but the squash should not feel mushy.

How to make parmesan butternut squash in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Cracked black pepper
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Sea salt (optional)

Optional extras:

• Crushed garlic cloves
• Brown sugar
• Spices (e.g. chilli powder, cumin, cinnamon)
• Fresh herbs (e.g. rosemary, thyme)

Method:

• Cut the butternut squash in half lengthways and remove the seeds.
• Drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash and season with salt and pepper. Rub the oil and seasoning across the exposed butternut squash.
• Place the pieces of butternut squash skin side down into the air fryer basket.
• Set the air fryer to 180°C and cook for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, remove the butternut squash from the air fryer basket.
• Top the squash with grated parmesan cheese.
• Return to the air fryer and cook for another 15 minutes.

Tips:

• The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your butternut squash. Test the squash with a fork to ensure that it is tender. If not, cook for a further 5 minutes and test again.
• For a sweeter dish, add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the olive oil and whisk to combine before drizzling over the squash.
• For a spicier dish, make a spice mix using garlic powder, cumin, chilli powder, sea salt and brown sugar. Drizzle the squash in olive oil and scatter the spice mix over the top.

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