If you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional pasta, spaghetti squash is the perfect ingredient to incorporate into your meals. With its unique stringy texture that resembles spaghetti noodles, spaghetti squash is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a base for a variety of dishes.
Now, let’s explore a mouthwatering spaghetti squash recipe that can be prepared quickly and easily using an air fryer. Get ready to enjoy a delightful and healthy culinary experience!
Spaghetti Squash Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (buy here)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (buy here)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (buy here)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, marinara sauce
Equipment
- Air fryer (recommendation: Ninja air fryer)
- Fork
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat it while you prepare the spaghetti squash.
- Prepare the spaghetti squash: Slice the squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center using a spoon. Discard the seeds and pulp.
- Season the squash: Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides of the squash, ensuring it is evenly coated. Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over both sides of the squash, rubbing the seasoning into the flesh.
- Air fry the squash: Place the seasoned squash halves, cut side down, in the preheated air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them separately. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove and shred the squash: Carefully remove the cooked squash from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes until it’s safe to handle. Use a fork to scrape the flesh lengthwise, creating strands that resemble spaghetti noodles. Continue scraping until you have shredded all the squash.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the shredded squash to a serving dish. You can enjoy it as is or add your favorite toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a drizzle of marinara sauce for added flavor.
- Optional step: If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, you can return the shredded squash to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes to enhance its texture.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious spaghetti squash creation as a nutritious side dish or as a light main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Preparing spaghetti squash in an air fryer is a fantastic way to create a healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free alternative to pasta dishes. The air fryer helps to achieve a tender texture while preserving the natural flavors of the squash.
With a few simple steps, you can transform this humble vegetable into a delightful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan or simply looking for a creative way to enjoy vegetables, this spaghetti squash air fryer recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
