Air-Fryer Delicata Squash: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Air fryer delicata squash is a quick and easy side dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. It is a tasty, healthy, and versatile dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. The skin of the delicata squash is edible, so there is no need to peel it before cooking. The squash can be cut into rings or slices and seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs. It is then cooked in the air fryer at around 400°F for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices.

Choosing the right squash

• Size and Weight: Look for a delicata squash that is oblong in shape and ranges from small to large in size. Choose one that feels heavy for its size, as this indicates freshness and good hydration.
• Colour and Appearance: Opt for a squash with bright yellow skin and prominent dark green vertical stripes. Avoid any with wrinkles or soft spots.
• Ripeness: A ripe delicata squash will have a bright yellow colour and distinct green streaks or stripes.
• Texture: Delicata squash has thin, edible skin that is fairly easy to cut through. Choose one with smooth, unblemished skin.
• Seasonality: Delicata squash is typically available in the fall and early winter. Enjoy it during these seasons when it is at its freshest and most flavourful.
• Storage: You can store delicata squash at room temperature in a dry, cool spot for up to a few weeks. For longer storage, keep it in a cool, dry, and dark place for up to a month or two.

By following these guidelines, you'll be sure to select the perfect delicata squash for your air fryer recipe!

How to cut and prepare the squash

Preparing delicata squash is a simple process. First, scrub the skin of the squash with a brush and pat it dry. You want to ensure the skin is clean as it will be eaten. Next, cut off both ends of the squash. From here, you have two options: you can either slice the squash into rings and then scoop out the seeds, or slice the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then slice each half into 1/4-inch thick slices or rings.

It is worth noting that delicata squash is easier to cut than other types of squash due to its thin skin, which is also edible. When choosing a delicata squash, opt for one that is roughly the same size as this will ensure even cooking.

Seasoning options

The mild and slightly sweet flavour of delicata squash means that there are lots of seasonings that go well with it. You can base your seasoning on what will complement the main dish. Here are some ideas for seasoning delicata squash in the air fryer:

Sweet

• Sprinkle with cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. Once cooked, drizzle with maple syrup.
• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.

Spicy

• Use chilli powder and cayenne pepper.
• Cajun seasoning.
• A mix of chilli powder and cayenne pepper.

Savoury

• Curry powder, cinnamon and black pepper.
• Italian seasoning, garlic powder and Parmesan cheese.
• Garlic, Parmesan, and spices.
• Avocado oil, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
• Smoked paprika, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
• Garlic powder, fresh rosemary, and sea salt.
• Cumin, paprika, dried basil, or oregano.

Cooking times and temperatures

Air-frying delicata squash is a quick and easy way to cook this tasty vegetable. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your squash slices and your desired crispiness, but generally, the squash will be ready in 10–15 minutes. Here are the steps to follow for the best results:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375–400°F (190–200°C).
• While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your delicata squash by washing it and slicing off the ends.
• Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
• Slice the squash into 1/4–1/2-inch thick slices or rings. You can also cut the squash into fry shapes if you prefer.
• Place the squash slices in a large bowl and toss them with olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter. You can also add your desired seasonings at this point, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, or cinnamon.
• Arrange the seasoned squash in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
• Air fry at 375–400°F (190–200°C) for 10–15 minutes. For even cooking, shake or turn the squash halfway through the cooking process.
• Check the squash for doneness after the recommended cooking time. It should be fork-tender and starting to brown around the edges. If it needs more time, put it back in the air fryer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
• Serve the squash immediately for the best texture and taste.

By following these steps and adjusting the cooking time as needed, you'll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked delicata squash that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

How to serve and store

Air fryer delicata squash is best served immediately while it's still warm and crispy. It can be enjoyed as a side dish with a variety of main courses, including poultry, beef, or pork. It also goes well with soups, salads, and sandwiches. For a fun twist, serve it with a dip like you would with fries—it's a great healthy alternative!

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the air fryer or oven to restore their crispy texture, or embrace the softer texture and add them to a salad.

Delicata squash can also be frozen. Simply slice the squash into rings or fries, then freeze them on a sheet pan before transferring them to an airtight container for storage. Frozen delicata squash can be cooked from frozen in the air fryer or oven without the need for thawing.

Frequently asked questions