Air Fryer Roasted Acorn Squash Recipe:
Servings: 2-4 Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 acorn squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prep the Acorn Squash:
- Wash the acorn squash and pat it dry.
- Cut the squash in half vertically and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits using a spoon. You can also peel the skin off if desired, but leaving it on adds a nice texture once cooked.
- Cut each half into 1/2-inch to 1-inch thick slices.
- Season the Squash:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
- Add the acorn squash slices to the bowl and toss them in the seasoned oil mixture, making sure each slice is coated evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
- Air Fry the Squash:
- Place the seasoned acorn squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry the slices for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The squash should be tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
- Serve:
- Once the acorn squash slices are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the roasted acorn squash slices as a delicious side dish or even as a healthy snack.
Notes:
- Variations: Feel free to customize the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of cinnamon for a touch of sweetness or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Peeling the Skin: While the skin of acorn squash is edible and becomes tender when cooked, if you prefer a softer texture or don’t enjoy the skin, you can peel it before slicing.
- Serving Suggestions: Roasted acorn squash can be served alongside roasted meats, as part of a grain bowl, or even in salads. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of flavors.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time might vary depending on the thickness of your squash slices and the specific air fryer model you’re using. Keep an eye on the squash to prevent overcooking.
- Caramelization: The high heat of the air fryer will help caramelize the edges of the acorn squash slices, giving them a delicious and slightly crispy texture.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Air Fryer Roasted Acorn Squash!
Certainly! Here are some additional tips, variations, and serving ideas for your Air Fryer Roasted Acorn Squash:
Tips:
- Uniform Slices: Try to cut the acorn squash slices in a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. This way, all the slices will be ready at the same time.
- Spacing: Make sure to leave a little space between the acorn squash slices in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
- Oil Spray: If you want to reduce the amount of oil used, you can lightly spray the squash slices with cooking spray instead of tossing them in oil.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the acorn squash is done, insert a fork or knife into a slice. It should go in easily without much resistance.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover roasted acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the air fryer or microwave.
Variations:
- Sweet and Savory: Create a sweet and savory version by drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over the acorn squash slices before air frying. The sweetness will complement the natural flavors of the squash.
- Cheesy Squash: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese on top of the squash slices during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy and indulgent twist.
- Spiced Squash: Experiment with different spices and herbs. Consider using cumin, chili powder, or a sprinkle of curry powder for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Ideas:
- Acorn Squash Tacos: Use the roasted acorn squash slices as a delicious filling for tacos. Add some black beans, salsa, and avocado for a satisfying vegetarian option.
- Grain Bowls: Add the roasted acorn squash to grain bowls along with cooked quinoa or rice, fresh greens, roasted vegetables, and your favorite protein source.
- Soup Garnish: Float a few roasted acorn squash slices on top of a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup for an added texture and flavor element.
- Salads: Toss the roasted squash slices into a green salad with mixed greens, nuts, dried fruits, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
- Brunch Addition: Serve the roasted acorn squash alongside scrambled eggs or in a breakfast hash for a nutritious and colorful brunch option.
Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to suit your taste and the occasion. Air fryer roasted acorn squash is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways!
