Squash in Air Fryer: A Tasty Side Dish

Squash, with its naturally sweet flavour and tender texture, is a versatile vegetable that I love to use in a variety of dishes. Whether it’s summer varieties like zucchini (courgette) and yellow squash or heartier winter types like butternut and acorn squash, the air fryer is a fantastic tool for cooking them to perfection. It’s quick, easy, and delivers beautifully caramelized air fryer squash with a slight crisp on the outside and tender, flavourful flesh on the inside.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Squash?

Cooking squash in the air fryer is all about convenience and taste. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation helps to cook squash evenly and quickly, giving it a lovely roasted flavour without the need for much oil. Unlike roasting in the oven, which can take longer and heat up your entire kitchen, the air fryer gets the job done in a fraction of the time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or quick side dishes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Roasting Squash in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Squash Start by washing your squash. If you’re using summer squash like zucchini or yellow squash, simply trim the ends and slice them into rounds or half-moons about ¼-inch thick. For winter squash like butternut or acorn, peel the squash, remove the seeds, and cut it into evenly sized cubes, about 1-inch thick.

Step 2: Season the Squash Place the sliced or cubed squash in a bowl and toss with a light drizzle of olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs for extra flavour. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the squash starts cooking immediately, helping to develop a nice caramelization on the outside.

Step 4: Cook the Squash Arrange the squash in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting. If you’re cooking larger amounts, you might need to cook it in batches to ensure even cooking. Cook the squash for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides are evenly browned. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your squash slices or cubes and your preferred level of doneness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Once the squash is golden brown and tender, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Serve it hot as a side dish, or incorporate it into salads, grain bowls, or pasta dishes.

Here's another recipe idea for air fryer butternut squash.

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Size Matters: Cut your squash into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate. This is especially important if you’re mixing different types in one batch.
• Experiment with Flavors: Squash is a blank canvas when it comes to seasoning. Try adding a touch of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after cooking for a delicious twist.
• Don’t Overcrowd: To get that perfect roasted texture, make sure the veggies have enough space in the air fryer basket. If it’s too crowded, the squash will steam and won’t develop that desirable crispiness.

Why You’ll Love Cooking Squash in the Air Fryer:

This is a great way to enjoy this healthy and delicious vegetable with minimal effort. The air fryer cooks the squash quickly, giving it a perfectly caramelized exterior and a tender, flavourful interior. Whether you’re cooking zucchini, butternut, or any other variety, the air fryer brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish, a tasty addition to salads, or a base for a hearty bowl, air-fried squash is versatile, nutritious, and incredibly easy to prepare. The next time you have squash on hand, skip the oven and give your air fryer a try. You’ll love how simple and delicious it is!