Tiffany Haney
Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and grain bowls to soups and wraps. It can also be served as a side dish or added to scrambled eggs for a healthy breakfast. One popular way to cook butternut squash is in an air fryer, which results in a crispy exterior and a tender, sweet interior. This method is not only delicious but also convenient, as it cuts the cooking time in half compared to using a regular oven. In this article, we will explore different ways to cook butternut squash in an air fryer, including roasting, air frying, and even cooking the squash seeds. We will also provide tips on preparation, seasoning, and serving suggestions to elevate your butternut squash dish.
Characteristics and Values Table for Cooking Butternut Squash in an Air Fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Dish | Side dish |
| Ingredients | Butternut squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, maple syrup |
| Tools | Air fryer, sharp knife, spoon, vegetable peeler, medium mixing bowl, airtight container |
| Preparation | Cut butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, peel, cut into cubes, coat with oil and seasoning |
| Cooking Time | 15-35 minutes at 180-400°F |
| Storage | Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days |
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What You'll Learn
How to cut butternut squash for air frying
To cut butternut squash for air frying, you will first need to decide whether you want to cook the squash in halves or cubes. If you want to cook it in halves, use a sharp knife to cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. If your squash is too large to fit in your air fryer basket, trim the ends off and/or cut each half in half again. Place the two halves into your air fryer basket, skin side down. If you want to cook your squash in cubes, chop off the top and bottom of the squash using a sharp chef's knife, then use a vegetable peeler to peel it. With the squash standing upright, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, chop it into 1-inch half-moon slices, then dice them.
Whether you are cooking your butternut squash in halves or cubes, you will need to remove the seeds. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and either discard them or set them aside to roast later.
If you are cooking your squash in halves, you can now place the two halves into your air fryer basket, skin side down, and continue with the cooking process.
If you are cooking your squash in cubes, it is important to cut the pieces to a similar size so that they cook evenly. You can now place the squash cubes into a bowl and toss with oil and seasonings to evenly coat them, or you can wait until they are in the air fryer basket and spray them with oil and sprinkle with seasonings. Either way, make sure that you spread the squash cubes out into a single layer in the air fryer basket, with space in between each piece, so that they cook evenly and get crispy.
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How to season butternut squash before air frying
There are several ways to season butternut squash before air frying it. The first step is to peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. You can do this by chopping off the top and bottom of the squash using a sharp chef's knife, then using a vegetable peeler to peel it. Next, with the squash standing upright, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and then chop it into half-moon slices before dicing it.
Once you have your diced squash, you can toss it with oil and seasonings in a bowl to evenly coat it. You can use olive oil or avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper, or a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. You can also add a small amount of brown sugar or honey to elevate the flavors. If you want to add a hint of sweetness, you can also add maple syrup to the mixture.
Another option is to spray the squash with olive oil spray before tossing it with more oil and sprinkling on the seasoning. This helps to ensure that the seasoning sticks to the squash. You can also add optional add-ins like feta, goat cheese, cranberries, pecans, or pomegranate arils.
Finally, transfer the seasoned squash to the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between the pieces. This helps to ensure that the squash cooks evenly and gets crispy. You can now air fry your seasoned butternut squash to perfection!
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How long to air fry butternut squash
The cooking time for butternut squash in an air fryer varies depending on the size and ripeness of the squash, as well as the specific air fryer being used. It is important to note that the skin of the butternut squash is edible, but it becomes papery after cooking, so some people prefer to peel it before cooking.
For halved butternut squash, the cooking time ranges from 30 to 35 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) or 380 degrees Fahrenheit. It is recommended to flip the squash after 15 to 18 minutes to ensure even cooking.
For cubed butternut squash, the cooking time is generally shorter, ranging from 15 to 23 minutes at 340 to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to shake or toss the squash halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crisping.
When cooking frozen butternut squash, it is necessary to add extra time to the cooking process and leave space between the pieces to achieve the desired level of crispness and caramelization.
Additionally, the cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the size of the air fryer basket and the amount of squash being cooked. It is important to ensure that the air fryer is not overcrowded, as proper air circulation is crucial for optimal cooking results.
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How to store leftover air-fried butternut squash
Air-fried butternut squash is a tasty and versatile dish that can be served as a side or incorporated into salads, grain bowls, or pasta. If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover air-fried butternut squash to ensure it stays fresh and delicious:
Storing in the Fridge
Allow the leftover butternut squash to cool to room temperature. Place the squash in an airtight container or a resealable bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for three to four days.
Freezing Leftover Butternut Squash
If you want to extend the shelf life of your leftover butternut squash, you can freeze it. Spread the squash pieces on a baking tray and place them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen pieces into a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to six months.
Reheating Frozen Butternut Squash
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen butternut squash, simply take it out of the freezer and reheat it. You can add it back to the air fryer for a few minutes until warm and slightly crisp, sauté it with a little oil, or microwave it, although it won't be as crispy.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Butternut squash should not be stored in the fridge when it is whole and unpeeled, as the low temperature and humidity can accelerate spoilage and negatively affect its texture.
- Keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage, such as brown spots, soft spots, or slimy areas.
- If you plan to store your butternut squash for a more extended period before cooking, consider freezing it instead of refrigerating it.
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What to serve with air-fried butternut squash
Air-fried butternut squash is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:
As a Side Dish
Air-fried butternut squash can be a delicious and healthy side dish. It pairs well with proteins such as roasted chicken, oven-fried chicken, turkey breast, or crispy baked pork chops. You can also serve it with other vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, to create a balanced meal.
In Salads
Butternut squash is a great addition to salads. You can add it to a simple green salad or get creative with combinations like a butternut squash and quinoa salad, or a salad with kale, apple, cranberries, and almonds. It provides a sweet and savoury flavour and a nice texture to your salad.
In Soups and Stews
Air-fried butternut squash can be a great ingredient to add to soups and stews. Simply scoop out the roasted squash flesh and blend it with your choice of stock or broth. You can also add cream or milk for a creamier consistency. This will enhance the flavour and add a nice, smooth texture to your soup or stew.
In Grain Bowls and Wraps
Butternut squash also goes well with grains like quinoa or rice. You can create a grain bowl with roasted vegetables, proteins, and a dressing of your choice. It can also be a tasty addition to wraps, providing a sweet and savoury flavour along with a soft texture.
With Eggs
For a healthy breakfast option, you can serve air-fried butternut squash with scrambled eggs. It adds a nice vegetable component to your breakfast and provides a balance of flavours and textures.
With Cinnamon or Pumpkin Pie Spice
If you're looking for a sweet twist, try serving air-fried butternut squash with a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. This combination can be a delightful way to enjoy the squash as a dessert or a sweet snack.
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Frequently asked questions
First, cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise with a sharp knife. Place the two halves into your air fryer basket to make sure they will fit. If not, trim the ends off and/or cut each half in half again. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard them. Next, drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash and season with salt and pepper. Place the pieces of butternut squash skin side down into the air fryer basket. Set the heat to 180 degrees celsius (356 Fahrenheit) and air fry for 30 minutes.
Cooking time depends on the size and ripeness of your squash. It can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the squash and the temperature of the air fryer.
The temperature depends on the size of your squash and the desired texture. For crispy butternut squash, cook at 360-400°F for 20 minutes. For softer squash, cook at 340°F for 20-23 minutes.
Yes, you can cook frozen butternut in an air fryer. Simply add extra time to the cooking process and leave space between all the pieces. Frozen squash won't get as crispy or caramelized as fresh squash.
You can season butternut squash with a variety of spices such as onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and salt. You can also add brown sugar or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
