Air-Fried Butternut Squash: A Quick, Delicious Treat

Roasted butternut squash is a delicious and convenient way to cook this winter vegetable. In this post, you will learn how to make roasted butternut squash in an air fryer, with two different methods to choose from. The first method involves roasting butternut squash halves, which makes for an easy side dish. The second method is to cube the butternut squash and incorporate it into your favourite salads. Both methods are quick and easy, and the air fryer helps to cut down the cooking time by almost half compared to using a regular oven. So, if you're looking for a tasty and healthy dish that doesn't take too much time, read on to find out how to make roasted butternut squash in an air fryer!

How to prepare the butternut squash

Preparing the butternut squash for air frying is simple and can be done in a few different ways. You can roast it in halves or cubes, and you can also buy pre-cut squash to save time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare butternut squash for air frying:

Step 1: Cut the Butternut Squash

Use a sharp knife to cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Be careful as this can be a bit tricky due to the shape of the squash. If your squash is too hard to cut, poke it with a fork and microwave it for 3-4 minutes to soften it first. Once cut in half, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp and discard them.

Step 2: Peel the Squash (Optional)

While you can cook the squash with the peel on, some people prefer to peel it first. The peel can be tough and papery once cooked, so it is recommended to remove it, especially if you are cutting the squash into cubes. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the squash before cutting it into your desired shape.

Step 3: Cut the Squash into Cubes (Optional)

If you want to cut your squash into cubes, first chop off the top and bottom of the squash using a sharp knife. Then, cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Next, slice the squash into 1-inch half-moon slices, and then dice them into cubes. This size ensures even cooking and makes it easier to coat the squash with oil and seasonings.

Step 4: Season the Squash

Place the squash in a large bowl and add your desired seasonings. You can use a variety of seasonings like olive oil or avocado oil, salt, pepper, cinnamon, garlic powder, paprika, or maple syrup. Toss the squash well to ensure it is evenly coated.

Step 5: Air Fry the Squash

Place the seasoned squash into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between the pieces to ensure even cooking and caramelization. If your squash is cut into halves, place them cut-side up in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to the desired temperature and time, typically between 350-390°F for 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and shape of your squash. Remember to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning.

Your air-fried butternut squash is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it as a side dish or use it in salads, soups, curries, or any of your favorite recipes.

What type of spray or oil should you use?

When making roasted butternut squash in an air fryer, the type of spray or oil you use is important. It is recommended to use a spray or oil with a high smoke point, as this will help to prevent the oil from smoking and potentially ruining your air fryer.

Some good options for sprays include olive oil cooking spray and grapeseed oil cooking spray. These sprays provide a light coat of oil to the squash, which is enough to give it some moisture without using too much oil. If you want to use a bottled oil instead of a spray, avocado oil or olive oil are good choices. Just be sure to avoid cooking sprays like PAM, as these can damage the non-stick coating in your air fryer.

In terms of how much oil to use, a light coat or a single tablespoon is usually enough. You can always add more oil if needed, but it's best to start with a smaller amount to avoid making the squash too greasy.

How to store leftover squash?

Roasted butternut squash is a delicious and convenient way to cook this winter vegetable. If you have any leftovers, here is how to store them to keep them fresh:

Storing Cooked Butternut Squash:

Transfer the cooked butternut squash to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four to five days. When you are ready to eat it again, simply reheat the squash in a saucepan or microwave.

Storing Raw Cut Butternut Squash:

If you have cut up more butternut squash than you need, you can store the unused portion in the fridge for at least four days. Make sure it is covered, either in a container or a zippered plastic bag.

Storing Raw Whole Butternut Squash:

Whole butternut squash should be stored in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or closet. It will last for two to three months under the right storage conditions. Avoid storing whole squash in the refrigerator, as the humidity will cause it to deteriorate rapidly.

How to make butternut squash halves

Ingredients:

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

Method:

• Use a sharp knife to slice the butternut squash in half lengthways.
• Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp and discard them.
• Drizzle olive oil over the cut side of the squash.
• Season with sea salt and black pepper.
• Use your hands or a pastry brush to 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 heat to 180 degrees celsius (356 Fahrenheit) and air fry for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, remove the butternut squash from the air fryer basket and serve as desired.

Tips:

• The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your butternut squash. The timings in this recipe are based on a medium-sized squash.
• For best results, test the squash with a fork to ensure that it is tender. If not, cook for a further 5 minutes and test again.

How to make cubed butternut squash

Ingredients:

• Butternut squash
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt and pepper
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Brown sugar (optional)

Method:

• Cut the ends off the butternut squash.
• Carefully slice the skin off the squash and then slice it in half lengthways.
• Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds.
• Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes.
• Place the cubes into the air fryer basket.
• Drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper (and cinnamon, if using). Toss to coat evenly.
• Spread the cubes out into a single layer.
• Place the basket into the air fryer and set the heat to 380°F/193°C/356°F/180°C.
• Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. The squash is ready when it is tender and golden.
• (Optional) Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Tips:

• You can save time by buying pre-cut butternut squash. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the cubes.
• If you want to add a touch of sweetness, you can toss the squash in maple syrup or honey before air frying.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chilli powder to the seasoning.

Frequently asked questions