Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
This Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash recipe offers a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy tender spaghetti-like strands with delightfully crispy edges. It cuts cooking time drastically using an air fryer, requires minimal oil for a light, nutrient-rich dish, and serves as a versatile base for numerous toppings and sauces. Perfect as a side or main, it’s easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 28-32 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Wash the spaghetti squash thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon to create a hollow cavity for roasting.
- Season the Squash: Lightly brush the inside of each half with olive oil. Then evenly sprinkle salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder over the flesh to enhance flavor and crispness.
- Air Fry the Squash: Place the halves cut-side down in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 18-22 minutes depending on the squash size. The flesh should be fork-tender and slightly golden around the edges.
- Scrape the Strands: Remove the squash from the air fryer and allow it to cool slightly. Use a fork to gently scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, separating them carefully to maintain the perfect texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with your choice of sauce or toppings, or use the strands as a base for vegetables, proteins, and herbs for a complete meal.
Notes
- Choose even-sized squash for uniform cooking and tender strands.
- Don’t skip the olive oil; a light brush is key for crispy texture without excess greasiness.
- Check doneness with a fork a few minutes before cooking time ends to avoid overcooking.
- Allow the squash to cool slightly before scraping to prevent mushy strands.
- Feel free to experiment with spices, herbs, or toppings to customize flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup cooked spaghetti squash
- Calories: 42
- Sugar: 3.9g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer, spaghetti squash, healthy side dish, low calorie, gluten free, quick cooking, low fat
Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/air-fryer-spaghetti-squash/