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Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash: A Healthy and Delicious Alternative

Spaghetti squash, with its unique ability to transform into long, noodle-like strands when cooked, has become increasingly popular in the realm of healthy eating. Whether you are gluten-free, vegan, or simply looking to add more vegetables to your diet, air-fried spaghetti squash offers an exciting and versatile alternative to traditional pasta. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make in an air fryer, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal in no time at all.

What is Spaghetti Squash?

Spaghetti squash is a variety of winter squash, distinguished by its elongated shape and pale yellow colour. When cooked, its flesh separates into spaghetti-like strands. This unique texture allows it to be used as a substitute for pasta in a variety of dishes, pairing well with various sauces, toppings, and seasonings.

Benefits of Air Frying

Air frying has gained popularity as a healthier cooking method. By using hot air circulation to produce a crispy texture, air fryers require significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This means you can enjoy your favourite foods with less guilt while still maintaining a delightful crunch. Moreover, air frying often leads to quicker cooking times and easier clean-up, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients:

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional spices (such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or paprika)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Begin by washing the spaghetti squash thoroughly. Carefully slice it in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. This can be somewhat challenging due to its tough skin, so take care. Remove the seeds and stringy bits from the centre with a spoon.

2. Season: Brush the inside of each half with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer to enhance the flavour.

3. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). Place the halved spaghetti squash, cut side down, in the air fryer basket. Cook for approximately 18-20 minutes, checking for doneness. The squash is ready when the flesh is tender and can easily be scraped into strands with a fork.

4. Scrape into "Noodles": Once cooked, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer and let it cool for a few moments. Using a fork, gently scrape the flesh from the inside of the squash to create your ‘spaghetti’ strands.

5. Serve and Enjoy: You can serve your air-fried spaghetti squash with a variety of toppings. Whether tossed with marinara sauce, pesto, or drizzled with a simple garlic and olive oil sauce, the possibilities are endless. Don’t hesitate to add vegetables, grilled chicken, or cheese to create a heartier meal.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash

• Size Matters: Choose a spaghetti squash that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. If it’s too large, consider cutting it into quarters instead of halves.

• Experiment with Flavours: The plain squash can be quite versatile. Try adding different herbs, spices, or sauces to personalise your dish.

• Leftovers: Cooked spaghetti squash can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Simply reheat in the air fryer or microwave and enjoy as a quick meal.

Conclusion

Air fryer spaghetti squash is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. It’s not only simple to prepare but also offers a blank canvas for various flavours and cuisines. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs, follow a healthier lifestyle, or simply enjoy a delightful vegetable dish, air-fried spaghetti squash is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, dust off your air fryer, grab a spaghetti squash, and get cooking!