Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
2 Servings
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Calories
142 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
Description
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash involves cutting a small to medium squash in half lengthwise, seasoning with oil and spices, and cooking in an air fryer at 360°F until the flesh is fork-tender, typically about 20 minutes for a 2 lb squash. After cooking, the flesh is fluffed with a fork to separate it into noodle-like strands, characteristic of spaghetti squash. Optional toppings like vegan parmesan cheese and fresh parsley can be added for extra flavor and color. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the squash and air fryer model used, so checking for tenderness early is advisable. This preparation delivers a versatile vegetable base that can be incorporated into various dishes or enjoyed on its own.
The method is straightforward, relying on air frying which provides a slightly roasted flavor and cooks the squash evenly with minimal added fat. The use of avocado oil helps with moisture and browning, but it can be omitted or replaced with vegetable broth for oil-free cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer preservation.
Ingredients
- 2 lb spaghetti squash (1 small squash, but weigh for most accurate results)
- 2 teaspoon avocado oil or your choice, *omit for oil free, see notes
- ½ teaspoon salt sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper optional
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
Optional Garnishes
- vegan parmesan cheese
- parsley fresh
Instructions
- Cut a thin slice off the ends of your squash and then cut in half, lengthwise, as evenly as possible in two halves. Place the two halves in your air fryer basket, cut side up. Then drizzle with the oil (if using) and evenly sprinkle with the seasoning.
- Cook at 360 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until a fork can easily pierce the flesh. (This may vary according to the size of your squash.)
- Once cooked, transfer to a dish and fluff up the inside with a fork. Then add the parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if using, and enjoy.
Notes
- Cut the squash halves as evenly as possible to ensure even cooking.
- Start checking the squash for tenderness at 15 minutes as air fryer cook times vary by model and squash size.
- To cook without oil, spray or drizzle vegetable broth on the squash before air frying.
- Alternatively, roast the squash in a 400°F oven for 35 to 45 minutes until fork tender.
- Store leftovers refrigerated up to three days or freeze for up to three months in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 142 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 142cal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 23g | 8% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 637mg | 27% |
| Potassium | 348mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 510IU | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 7mg | 8% |
| Calcium | 74mg | 7% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.