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Air Fryer Butternut Squash: A Healthy Twist on a Seasonal Favourite

As autumn blankets the countryside with vibrant hues of orange and gold, butternut squash takes centre stage in our kitchens. This versatile vegetable is not only a staple in seasonal recipes but also boasts numerous health benefits. If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy method to prepare butternut squash, look no further than the air fryer. This innovative kitchen gadget delivers a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavourful, making it a perfect addition to your meals.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionised the way we cook. By circulating hot air around the food, it creates a crispy texture similar to traditional frying but with significantly less oil. This means you can enjoy all the rich flavours and textures of fried food without the added calories and unhealthy fats. With an air fryer, you can achieve the perfect roast on your butternut squash, enhancing its natural sweetness with a fraction of the fat.

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting skin health. Additionally, it contains dietary fibre, which aids digestion and helps to keep you feeling full. With its low calorie content and high nutritional value, butternut squash is a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Air Fryer Butternut Squash Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Squash: Start by peeling the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler. Cut off both ends and slice the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds using a spoon, then cut each half into cubes of about 1-inch in size.

2. Season the Cubes: In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss until the cubes are evenly coated in the oil and spices.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that the squash cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

4. Cook the Squash: Place the seasoned butternut squash cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The squash should be golden brown and tender when done.

5. Serve: Once cooked, transfer the air-fried butternut squash to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs for an added pop of colour and flavour. You can enjoy it hot or toss it in a salad for a delightful contrast of textures.

Serving Suggestions

Air-fried butternut squash makes a fantastic side dish, pairing beautifully with roasted meats or as part of a hearty autumn salad. Try it sprinkled over a bed of greens, along with cranberries, feta cheese, and walnuts for a seasonal treat. Alternatively, it can be blended into a creamy soup or used as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.

Conclusion

Air fryer butternut squash is a quick and easy way to enjoy this seasonal vegetable while keeping your meals healthy and satisfying. With minimal prep time and the air fryer’s ability to lock in flavour, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Embrace the flavours of autumn and make air fryer butternut squash a staple in your kitchen this season. Happy cooking!

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