Air Fryer Delicata Squash Recipe
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This Air Fryer delicata squash is one of those recipes that just screams fall, and it is so easy to make as well! This easy recipe makes tender squash that will pair perfectly with chicken, salmon, or beef for an easy weeknight dinner or meal-prepped lunch. It works out perfectly for meal prep because of how easy it reheats, but also the fiber and flavor it adds all week long to your macros! This is one healthy fall side that’s low-effort, family-friendly, and ready in minutes.
The best part about delicata squash is that it is naturally sweet and buttery, and the air fryer brings out that flavor without needing much oil or seasoning. Just a dash of rosemary, olive oil, and salt goes a long way. And no need to peel, the peel is delicious when cooked in the air fryer!
This side dish feels both wholesome and cozy, and no need to heat the oven. This is perfect to make a large batch but also easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The flavor is one that the majority of kids will also love. (Super-picky eaters may not like it) Easy to pair up with a main entree of salmon, steak, or chicken and a side of rice.
Air Fryer Delicata Squash Ingredients
You can make as many as you want of this recipe for meal prep.
What Is Delicata Squash?
I am always surprised at how many people have never heard of Delicata squash. This is a late fall/ early winter squash and is available at most grocery stores in the produce department. Delicata Squash tastes mildly sweet with a nutty, earthy taste, similar to an acorn squash or butternut squash. The flesh is completely edible, and the squash itself is creamy yellow with green and orange strips
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Air Fryer Delicata Squash Directions:
Remove any produce stickers from your squash. (I missed this once and ruined a slice with a burn sticker )
Rise off your squash under cold running water. You may need to use a brush to remove any remaining dirt on the peel of the squash.
And don’t worry, there is no need for any peeling; the skin is edible, and it’s soft after cooking!
Dry the delicata squash with a towel or allow the squash to air dry.
Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise.
Next, use a large spoon to scrape out the seeds. I even end up scraping a bit more under the seeds. I am picky about texture.
Cut the two halves into slices about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick; you can also cut off the ends of the squash. Thicker slices will need more time to cook, but it’s okay not to be an exact length.
Spray your air fry basket with a non-stick spray or line it with a liner. This will help the squash not to stick to the basket or tray of the air fryer. I use an oil spray bottle to coat mine with Olive Oil instead of a store-bought spray.
In a bowl, combine the rosemary, olive oil, and salt.
Add the slices of squash into the bowl of seasonings and oil, mix well.
Lay the squash slices out in a single layer on the air fryer basket. Setting the slices out like this allows them to cook thoroughly.
Cook at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
Shake the basket at the five-minute mark and cook for 5 more minutes.
If it doesn’t seem done enough, add another 2-3 minutes of cooking time at 400 degrees.
Serve and enjoy! Or a package for meal prep!
How To Store Delicata Squash
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. I tend to use this for five days of meal prep and have never had an issue.
How To Reheat Squash Leftovers
You can reheat in the air fryer if you would like. I reheat mine in the microwave with the rest of the meal prepped when I eat it.
Serve With Delicata Squash Recipe
Main Dishes: Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Tilapia, Air Fryer Salmon, Cabbage Soup, Air Fryer Chicken Breast, Grilled Chicken Breasts, Grilled Salmon
Side Dishes: Air Fryer Bacon Asparagus, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Oven Roasted Baby Potatoes, Air Fryer Brussell Sprouts, Green Beans, Caesar Salad, Acorn Squash, Green Salad, Baked Sweet Potatoes, Air Fryer Broccoli, Grilled Zucchini, Grilled Corn On The Cob, Air Fryer Zucchini Chips, Crockpot Quinoa
Alternate Seasonings For Delicata Squash
Now, seriously, the sky is the limit when it comes to the seasoning, spices, or herbs you use to season it. Most can be found right in your pantry. There is no wrong way you can go, so feel free to experiment based on your taste palate. You can make sweet or savory.
- Avocado Oil
- Garlic Powder
- Smoked Papprika
- Cinnamon with Maple Syrup
- Thyme
- Parmesan Cheese
Delicata Squash In Air Fryer
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Equipment
- Kinife
Ingredients
- 1 Delicata Squash
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1/2 Teaspoon Rosemary
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- Rinse off your squahs under cold running water and remove any stickers.
- Dry with a towel or allow the squash to air dry.
- Slice the delicata squash in half lengthwise.
- Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds.
- Cut the two halves into slices about 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick.
- Spray your air fry basket with a non-stick spray or line it with a liner.
- In a bowl, combine the rosemary, olive oil, and salt.
- Add the slices of squash and mix well.
- Lay the squash out in a single layer on the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
- Shake the basket at the five-minute mark and cook for 5 more minutes.
- If it doesn’t seem done enough, add another 2-3 minutes of cooking time at 400 degrees.
