Air Fryer Acorn Squash is the perfect recipe for a delicious and easy squash. Made with just a few ingredients, and ready in under 30 minutes
What Is Acorn Squash?
Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that belongs to the Cucurbita genus. It has a green, bumpy exterior with deep ridges and furrows. There are many varieties of acorn squash including spaghetti, pumpkin, banana, sweet dumpling, and golden nugget. Acorn squash can be used in both savory dishes or as a stuffing for pies and other baked goods.
Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that grows in the fall. They are high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Acorn squashes have a nutty flavor with a texture similar to pumpkin or sweet potato. You can use acorn squash for savory dishes like soups, stews, casseroles, curries, and even risotto!
How To Make Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Ingredients
- 1 small acorn squash (about 1 1/2 pounds), halved, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan
Directions
STEP 1
Preheat a 3.5-quart air fryer to 400 degrees F. Toss the squash, olive oil, red pepper flakes and 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl until evenly combined. Transfer to the air-fryer basket and air-fry, flipping the squash halfway through, until tender, golden brown and crisp at the edges, 20 to 25 minutes.
STEP 2
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter smells nutty and the milk solids turn golden brown, 4 to 6 minutes. Immediately remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the sage, pecans and a pinch of salt.
STEP 3
Place the squash on a serving platter and sprinkle with the Parmesan to warm and melt slightly. Spoon the brown butter mixture over the top.
FAQS
Is Acorn Squash Healthy?
Not only is it tasty, acorn squash has several healthy benefits. It is full of antioxidants and nutrients, making this a healthy side dish for your favorite recipes.
How do I store cooked acorn squash?
If you have leftovers, you can store the rest in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat squash, return to the air fryer and heat at 350 degrees for 3-5 minutes until warm.
Can you eat the skin of acorn squash?
Yes, you can! Once roasted, the skin actually softens and can easily be eaten. Because it becomes soft after cooking, you can easily peel it away from the insides, or just use a spoon and eat the insides of the squash around the peel.
WHY IS ACORN SQUASH GOOD FOR YOU?
According to this Healthline article, acorn squash is low in calories but packed with nutrients. Acorn squash is packed with antioxidants and Vitamin C. It promotes digestive health because it is high in fiber. And it may help in preventing heart disease by combating high levels of LDL (the bad cholesterol) and lowering the risk of high blood pressure.
How to reheat cooked acorn squash:
To reheat from the fridge, air fry at 350F for 5-6 minutes.