Tillie Doyle
Cooking winter squash in an air fryer is a quick, convenient, and healthy way to prepare this delicious vegetable. With a variety of seasonings and methods to choose from, you can create a versatile side dish to accompany a range of meals. Whether you prefer your squash cubed or halved, roasted or tender, there is an air fryer method to suit your taste. You can even add your own creative twist with optional add-ins like feta, cranberries, or pecans.
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What You'll Learn
How to cut winter squash for the air fryer
To cut winter squash for the air fryer, you will need a sharp knife and a vegetable peeler.
First, use the knife to cut off the ends of the squash. Then, carefully slice the skin off the outside of the squash. You can eat the skin of most winter squash varieties, but peeling it will make it easier to cut into cubes. Next, cut the squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and discard them. You can now cut the squash into cubes, which should be around 1.5cm in size.
Alternatively, you can cut the squash into halves or quarters and cook it in the air fryer without creating cubes. To do this, cut the squash lengthwise down the center. Place the two halves, skin-side down, on a baking tray. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and either discard them or save them for roasting later.
You can also buy pre-cut butternut squash, which will save you time. However, keep in mind that store-bought pre-cut squash is usually cut into larger pieces, so you may need to cut them into smaller cubes.
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Seasoning and spices for winter squash
Winter squash is a versatile vegetable that can be seasoned and spiced in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for seasoning and spices to elevate your air-fried winter squash:
Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper
A classic and simple way to season winter squash is to drizzle it with olive oil and sprinkle on some salt and pepper. This combination enhances the natural sweetness of the squash. You can also add some crushed garlic to this mixture for an extra punch of flavor.
Maple Syrup and Spices
For a touch of sweetness, combine maple syrup with spices like cinnamon, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. You can also try coconut sugar or honey instead of maple syrup. This mixture can be drizzled over the cooked squash or added to the air fryer basket with the squash for a more intense flavor.
Herbs
Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, oregano, thyme, sage, and chives can complement the flavor of winter squash. You can sprinkle these herbs on the squash before or after cooking. Alternatively, you can make an herb-infused olive oil by heating the oil with the herbs and then drizzling it over the cooked squash.
Cheese, Nuts, and Fruits
For a more indulgent twist, try adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries to your cooked winter squash. These add-ins provide a contrast of flavors and textures that can take your dish to the next level.
Savory Spice Mix
For a savory option, create a spice mix with onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss the cooked squash in olive oil and then sprinkle on the spice mix. This combination adds a depth of flavor to the natural sweetness of the squash.
With these seasoning and spice ideas, you can experiment and find the perfect combinations to suit your taste preferences.
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Cooking times and temperatures
The cooking time and temperature for winter squash in an air fryer depend on the way the squash is cut and the seasonings used. Here are some common methods and their corresponding cooking times and temperatures:
Cubed Squash
If you cut the squash into 1.5 cm-sized cubes, it will take around 15 minutes to cook at 356°F (180°C). It is recommended to drizzle the squash with olive oil and season it with salt and pepper before cooking.
Halved Squash
For squash cut into halves, a cooking time of 30 minutes at the same temperature of 356°F (180°C) is suggested. To prepare the squash, you can drizzle olive oil and sprinkle sea salt and black pepper on the cut side of the squash.
Spiced Squash
For spiced squash, a cooking time of 20 to 23 minutes at 340°F is recommended. The squash should be seasoned with a mix of spices, such as onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. You can also add brown sugar to enhance the flavour. It is important to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning and cooking.
Cinnamon Squash
Another variation includes coating the squash with olive oil and sprinkling it with ground cinnamon. This method suggests a cooking temperature of 360°F for 20 minutes.
Maple Syrup Squash
For a hint of sweetness, you can combine the squash with olive oil, maple syrup, and seasonings. This method suggests cooking at 400°F for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Garlic Herb Squash
To make garlic herb squash, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the squash in the basket or on trays, and cook for 8 minutes. Then, shake the basket or swap the trays, and cook for another 10 minutes. Check if the squash is tender, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer, so adjustments may be necessary.
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How to clean and prepare your air fryer
To clean and prepare your air fryer for cooking, follow these steps:
Firstly, unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely. This is an important safety step to prevent any electrical accidents and reduce the risk of burns. Once cooled, remove the basket, tray, and pan (if your air fryer has one).
Fill the sink with warm to hot water and add a mild dish soap. Use a sponge or cloth to wash the removable parts, ensuring you remove any food residue or grease. For stubborn grease, you can use a 50:50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and hot water, or a paste of baking soda and water, to help cut through it. Rinse the parts with clean water and dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or towel.
If your air fryer basket is particularly dirty, you can try a quick trick: fill the basket halfway with soapy water and place it back in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to fry for about 3 minutes, then dump the water and rinse the basket. Check if any grime remains, and repeat if necessary.
Once the removable parts are clean and dry, wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth to remove any crumbs or grease. Dry the air fryer thoroughly before reassembling it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure everything is properly aligned and secure.
Finally, store your air fryer in a clean, dry place when not in use. Regular cleaning will help maintain the performance of your air fryer and ensure your food stays safe and tasty.
Now that your air fryer is clean and prepared, you can start cooking your winter squash!
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What to serve with air-fried winter squash
Air-fried winter squash is a tasty, convenient, and healthy way to cook this vegetable. It can be served as a side dish or added to a salad. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air-fried winter squash:
Salads
Winter squash is a great addition to salads. You can add it to a simple green salad or get creative with other ingredients. For a fall-inspired salad, try adding cubed squash to a bed of greens, along with roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans. You can also make a butternut squash and quinoa salad with simple ingredients and fall flavors. Another option is to make a hearty roasted vegetable salad with autumn produce, such as kale, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and a tahini dressing.
Proteins
Winter squash pairs well with various proteins. You can serve it alongside roasted chicken, crispy baked pork chops, or air fryer chicken breast. For a vegetarian option, try a wild mushroom risotto or homemade hummus.
Other Sides
There are several other side dishes that complement winter squash. You can serve it with roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower. Smashed potatoes, sautéed green beans with dried cranberries and almonds, and bacon and white cabbage gratin are also delicious options.
Seasonings
When preparing your winter squash in the air fryer, you can experiment with different seasonings. A mix of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt is a savory option. You can also add a hint of sweetness with brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey. For a spicy kick, include some cinnamon or cayenne pepper. Feta, goat cheese, and pecans are also great add-ins to elevate your dish.
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Frequently asked questions
First, cut the squash in half and remove the seeds. Then, brush the flesh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. You can also add cinnamon, brown sugar, or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. Place the squash in the air fryer basket, skin side up, and air fry for 20 minutes at 360-400 degrees Fahrenheit. After 10 minutes, check on the squash, stir, coat, and continue cooking.
The temperature you cook winter squash in an air fryer depends on the model of your air fryer and the desired texture of the squash. Some sources recommend cooking at 360 degrees Fahrenheit, while others suggest 390 or 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If your air fryer does not cook above 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit), you may need to cook the squash for a little longer to achieve the desired results.
The cooking time for winter squash in an air fryer can vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer, as well as the size of the squash pieces. On average, it takes about 20 minutes to cook winter squash in an air fryer. However, larger pieces of squash may require additional cooking time. It is important to keep an eye on the squash and adjust the cooking time as needed.
There are several seasoning options that you can use to add flavor to your winter squash when cooking it in an air fryer. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. You can also add a sweet touch with brown sugar, maple syrup, or honey. Additionally, you can experiment with spices like cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
