How to cook butternut squash in air fryer
Butternut squash is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and a creamy texture, making it a popular choice for both savory and sweet dishes. One of the easiest and healthiest ways to cook butternut squash is in an air fryer. Air frying allows you to enjoy the natural flavors and textures of the squash without adding too much oil or fat.
To cook butternut squash in an air fryer, start by peeling the squash and removing the seeds. Cut the squash into small, bite-sized pieces or cubes. Place the butternut squash pieces in a bowl and drizzle them with a small amount of olive oil. Toss the pieces to coat them evenly with the oil.
Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the coated butternut squash pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook the squash for approximately 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Once the butternut squash is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and season it with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add herbs and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or rosemary for extra flavor. The air-fried butternut squash will have a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior, making it the perfect side dish or ingredient for salads, pasta dishes, and more.
Easy Steps to Cook Butternut Squash in Air Fryer
Cooking butternut squash in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and nutritious vegetable. Here are the easy steps to get perfectly cooked butternut squash every time:
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). |
2 | Peel the butternut squash and cut it into uniform pieces. Remove the seeds and fibrous parts. |
3 | In a bowl, toss the butternut squash pieces with olive oil, salt, and any desired herbs or spices. |
4 | Place the seasoned butternut squash pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not overcrowded. |
5 | Cook the butternut squash in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. The squash should be golden brown and tender when done. |
6 | Remove the cooked butternut squash from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. |
Now, you can enjoy your perfectly cooked butternut squash as a healthy side dish or use it in your favorite recipes. Its sweet and nutty flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal.
Prepare the Butternut Squash
To cook butternut squash in an air fryer, you first need to prepare the squash properly. Here are the steps to get your squash ready:
Step 1: | Wash the butternut squash under cold running water, ensuring that the entire surface is clean. |
Step 2: | Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off both ends of the squash. |
Step 3: | Peel the skin off the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler, being careful not to cut too deep into the flesh. |
Step 4: | Cut the squash in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and fibrous pulp from the center. |
Step 5: | Place the butternut squash halves on a clean cutting board and cut them into smaller, evenly-sized chunks. |
Now that your butternut squash is all prepped and ready, you can move on to the next step of cooking it in the air fryer. With these simple preparation steps, you’ll be enjoying delicious air-fried butternut squash in no time.
Cooking Butternut Squash in Air Fryer
If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious side dish, consider cooking butternut squash in an air fryer. The air fryer provides a convenient and efficient way to prepare this versatile winter squash, lending it a crisp exterior and tender interior.
Preparation
Start by peeling the butternut squash and removing the seeds. Cut the squash into pieces of a uniform size, so they cook evenly. Drizzle the squash with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Toss the squash in the seasoning until it is evenly coated.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned butternut squash pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
Once the cooking time is up, check the squash for desired tenderness. If needed, you can continue cooking for an additional few minutes. Remove the squash from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy the caramelized, slightly sweet flavors of air-fried butternut squash as a tasty side dish to complement any meal. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
Note: You can use this same cooking method for other types of winter squash, such as acorn squash or delicata squash. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the pieces.
Try cooking butternut squash in an air fryer for a simple and healthy way to enjoy this seasonal vegetable. Its natural sweetness and tender texture will make it a new favorite in your cooking repertoire.