Air fryer acorn squash is a simple yet delicious dish that highlights the natural sweetness and earthy flavor of this unique winter squash. Cooking it in the air fryer not only speeds up the process but also results in a beautifully caramelized exterior and tender flesh. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday meal or enjoying it as a healthy snack, here’s how to make air fryer acorn squash that everyone will love.
Air Fryer Acorn Squash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium acorn squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Acorn Squash:
- Start by carefully cutting the acorn squash in half from stem to tip. Use a sturdy knife, as the skin can be tough.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers using a spoon. You can save the seeds for roasting later!
- Season the Squash:
- Brush the insides of the squash halves with olive oil. If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle the maple syrup over the flesh.
- Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper evenly over the squash halves, ensuring they are well coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry the Squash:
- Place the seasoned acorn squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side up. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them one at a time.
- Air fry for about 18-20 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the squash and your specific air fryer model.
- Check for Doneness:
- Halfway through cooking, you can check the squash and rotate the basket for even cooking. If you prefer more caramelization, you can air fry for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Once done, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer. Let it cool for a minute before serving.
- Optionally, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Air fryer acorn squash pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, stews, or hearty grain salads. It adds a lovely touch of sweetness to any plate.
- For Breakfast: Try serving the squash topped with yogurt and granola for a nutritious breakfast option.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: For a more substantial meal, you can stuff the cooked squash with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and feta cheese before serving.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Acorn Squash:
- Choosing the Right Squash: Look for acorn squashes that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin with a rich green color. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
- Cooking Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Brown sugar, ginger, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add exciting flavors to the dish.
- Leftovers: Leftover cooked acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Air fryer acorn squash is a delicious and healthy option that is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Its sweet and nutty taste is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, this versatile dish will become a favorite in your fall and winter recipe rotation. Enjoy the delightful taste of acorn squash with minimal effort thanks to your air fryer!
