Air Fryer Delicata Squash

Air Fryer Delicata Squash: A Quick and Tasty Side Dish for the Winter Months

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious side dish, Air Fryer Delicata Squash is a great choice! The natural sweetness of the squash shines through when it’s air-fried, and the texture is beautifully creamy. The best part? You don’t even need to peel it—just slice, season, and cook. It’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect side for busy weeknights or holiday meals.

The delightful thing about delicata squash is that it’s a relatively small squash, and its edible skin adds extra texture and fiber. Whether you serve it alongside a hearty roast or as a standalone dish, this air fryer recipe makes it easy to prepare squash in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Delicata Squash Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes in the air fryer, making it the perfect fast and tasty side dish.
Healthy & Homemade: It’s made with only a couple of ingredients and no excess oil, sugar, or salt, so it’s healthier than many takeout options.
Naturally Sweet: Roasting in the air fryer brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, and the creamy texture is irresistible.
Versatile: You can adjust the heat and seasonings to your liking, and the recipe works with different squash varieties like butternut or acorn. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free!

This air fryer delicata squash recipe is a great way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful vegetable without all the fuss. It’s also a great way to free up oven space for your main dish, especially during busy times like Thanksgiving or Christmas!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Delicata Squash

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple, delicious side dish:

Delicata Squash: This is my go-to squash for this recipe because it’s small and has an edible skin. The skin adds texture and fiber, so you don’t need to peel it.
Olive Oil: I recommend extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you don’t have it, any light oil will work too.
Seasonings: I keep it simple with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, but you can always adjust or add other spices to suit your taste.

How to Make Air Fryer Delicata Squash: Step-by-Step

Air Fryer Delicata Squash - Meats-Beets-Bubbles

Here’s how to make this easy, healthy side dish:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot before adding the squash.
Prepare the Squash:
- Cut the delicata squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Slice the squash into ½-inch half-moon slices. Try to keep them consistent in size for even cooking.
Season the Squash:
- In a large bowl, toss the squash slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
Air Fry the Squash:
- Place the seasoned squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches if you have a lot of squash.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and golden brown on the edges.
Serve and Enjoy: Once done, serve the squash immediately. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for added flavor.

Oven Method for Roasting Delicata Squash

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can easily roast the delicata squash in the oven:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Squash: Follow the same preparation steps as in the air fryer method.
Roast:
- Spread the squash slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Serve: Once golden and tender, remove from the oven and enjoy!

Variations & Substitutions for Air Fryer Delicata Squash

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions:

Swap the Squash: If you can’t find delicata squash, you can easily substitute it with butternut squash, acorn squash, or sweet potato.
Add Sweetness: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the squash about 5 minutes before it’s done to add extra sweetness.
Spices: Try adding other spices like cumin, fennel seeds, cinnamon, or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
Add Heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the squash for a spicy kick.
Top with Parmesan: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Add garlic, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Delicata Squash

Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the squash. This ensures that it cooks evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Spread the squash out in a single layer in the air fryer basket to prevent steaming and ensure it roasts properly.
Consistent Size: Try to slice the squash evenly so that it cooks uniformly.
Proper Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning! The right amount of salt and pepper really makes a difference in flavor.

How to Serve Air Fryer Delicata Squash

This roasted delicata squash makes a fantastic side dish for any meal. It pairs beautifully with roast meats and is perfect for a Thanksgiving or Christmas feast alongside roast turkey or chicken. You can also serve it with other vegetable sides, like roast potatoes, green beans, or buttered carrots.

For a lighter option, try serving it with a fresh salad or alongside a protein-packed dish like grilled chicken or lamb chops.

How to Reheat Leftover Delicata Squash

This squash is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, reheating is easy. Simply pop the leftover squash in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to warm it through. If you’re reheating it in the air fryer, add a splash of olive oil to prevent it from drying out.

How to Freeze Air Fryer Delicata Squash

You can freeze this squash if you want to save it for later. After roasting, let the squash cool completely. Store it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat it in the air fryer or oven.

Conclusion: A Simple, Healthy Side Dish

Air Fryer Delicata Squash is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. Whether you’re using the air fryer, oven, or other methods, this recipe is simple to make, and the natural sweetness of the squash shines through. Plus, it’s adaptable to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy this delicious, flavorful squash with your favorite dishes!

Air Fryer Delicata Squash