This air fryer delicata squash is a quick and easy fall side dish! This seasonal squash is delicate, creamy, sweet and low-carb. This is a healthier alternative to fries and I love cutting them into a fun crescent moon shape. The best part is that you only need a few ingredients and there is no peeling required! This recipe is also naturally gluten free and dairy free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It takes less than 15 minutes to make!
This delicata squash makes for the perfect late summer and fall side dish.
It is a healthier alternative to fries!
This recipe is easily adaptable and can be made sweet or salty.
It is kid-friendly!
Delicata squash has numerous health benefits.
What is Delicata Squash?
Delicata squashes are known for having cream or pale orange exteriors with green or dark orange stripes. It is also known as the peanut squash, bohemian squash or sweet potato squash. Delicata squash has an exterior that is much more delicate than other types of squashes such as spaghetti squash, acorn squash or butternut squash. This makes it much easier to cut!
Nutrition Benefits of Delicata Squash
Delicata squash is packed with fiber and potassium. It is also full of Vitamin C and A. Squash also has excellent anti-inflammatory benefits!
Equipment Needed
All you need to make this delicata squash is an air fryer (I will also provide instructions for baking them in the oven if you don’t own an air fryer), cutting board, bowl, spoon and a knife. This is the air fryer I have and love if you are looking to purchase one! It’s my favorite because it doubles as an instant pot.
Ingredients Needed
Delicata Squash: Delicata squashes have cream or pale orange exteriors with green or dark orange stripes. You can grab one at your local grocery store or farmer’s market!
Oil: I like to use avocado oil here. I love ordering staples like this from Thrive Market because they have great prices and they deliver right to your doorstep. If you use my link, you can get 40% off your first order.
Seasoning: Feel free to switch up what you put on your delicata squash! Two of my favorite combinations are coconut sugar and cinnamon and garlic salt. The options are honestly endless though!
How To Pick The Best Delicata Squash
Select a squash that is firm and has an even cream color. The skin should be smooth. Ripe delicata squash is yellow in color with green stripes along the ribs. If you are planning to cook the squash soon, I would recommend choosing one that is ripe. Avoid delicata squash that is light green or has patches on it. The average delicata squash is about 6 inches long and 3 inches in diameter. Delicata squash is in season from September through November. They can be stored for about 3 months in a cool, dry place and enjoyed throughout the fall and into the winter months!
How To Cut Into Crescents
Wash the squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends of the squash. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and then scoop out the seeds. Slice each half of the squash into crescent-shaped pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
How To Season
Personally, my favorite seasoning combinations are cinnamon and coconut sugar and garlic salt. When it comes to squash, the options are endless though! The sweet, nutty taste of delicata squash goes well with several different flavor combinations. Some other ideas are rosemary, taco spice, oregano, Italian seasoning, everything but the bagel spice and red pepper flakes. Once you have chosen your seasoning, add your crescents to the bowl along with oil and seasoning of choice. Stir until each piece of squash is coated with the mixture.
Why To Use An Air Fryer
Air fryers are incredibly versatile and easy to use! They heat up quickly, which means you have delicious crispy, golden brown food in a flash. Personally, I love that they cut down the amount of time I am in the kitchen. They are also a healthier alternative to deep frying or pan frying. This is the air fryer I have and love if you are looking to purchase one!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
Step 2: Cut the ends off your squash and slice it in half lengthwise.
Step 3: Scoop the seeds out of the middle and dispose of them.
Step 4: Slice each half of the squash into crescent-shaped pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 5: Place squash in a bowl. Add oil and season with spices or seasoning of your choice! Mix it around until each piece is thoroughly coated.
Step 6: Place squash into the air fryer. Cook for 10 minutes at 400 °F.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy!
How To Roast in The Oven
Follow the instructions to cut the delicata squash into crescent shapes (steps 1-5 above). Preheat oven to 425° F. Place squash on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Storage
Store this air fryer delicata squash in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This a great side dish to meal prep. Delicata squash is also amazing to throw in fall salads or harvest bowls!
Leftovers
Reheat the leftovers in the oven on a baking sheet at 425°F until warm or put them back in the air fryer at 400° for a few minutes. Leftovers can be used for delicious harvest salds or bowls!
Recipe FAQ
What is delicata squash?
Delicata squash is a winter squash with green and orange stripes, pale skin and orange flesh. It is also known as peanut squash, Bohemian squash or sweet potato squash. It is known for its delicate and edible skin.
What does delicata squash taste like?
It has a subtly sweet flavor and creamy texture!
Can you eat the skin?
Yes! The skin is edible.
Is delicata squash healthy?
Yes! It is a delicious whole food option packed with nutrients.
Can you use it for soup?
Yes!
What should you serve with delicata squash?
Delicata squash would be a great addition to this harvest bowl. It also pairs nicely with any meat dish!
Related Recipes
Be sure to try these delicious air fryer recipes next:
Air Fryer Cucumber Salmon Bites
If you make this air fryer delicata squash recipe, I would really appreciate a review! I also love seeing your creations so please tag me on Instagram or Tik Tok.
Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Ingredients
- 1 delicata squash
- 1 tbsp oil (I used avocado oil)
- 2 tbsp seasoning (I like to use cinnamon sugar or garlic salt)
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- Cut the ends off your squash and slice it in half lengthwise.
- Scoop the seeds out of the middle and dispose of them.
- Slice each half of the squash into crescent-shaped pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place squash in a bowl. Add oil and season with spices or seasoning of your choice! Mix it around until each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Place squash into the air fryer. Cook for 10 minutes at 400 °F.
- Serve and enjoy!
