Are you ready to transform a humble vegetable into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make you forget all about traditional pasta? Get ready to be amazed by the Buttery Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash - a game-changing recipe that combines incredible flavor, incredible ease, and incredible health benefits in one stunning dish! This culinary wonder turns a simple squash into delicate, butter-kissed "noodles" that will have your taste buds dancing and your dinner guests begging for your secret.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the spaghetti squash by carefully cutting it in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Use a spoon to remove and discard the seeds and inner stringy pulp from both halves.
- Lightly brush the inside of each squash half with 1 tablespoon of butter, ensuring even coverage. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the squash.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and helps create a slightly caramelized exterior.
- Place the squash halves cut-side up in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them one at a time to prevent overcrowding.
- Cook the squash for 20-25 minutes, checking at the 20-minute mark for tenderness. The squash is done when you can easily pierce it with a fork and the edges start to turn golden brown.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the squash from the air fryer using tongs. Let it cool for 2-3 minutes to make handling easier.
- Using a fork, gently scrape the inside of the squash horizontally to create spaghetti-like strands. The squash should easily separate into noodle-like strands.
- Transfer the squash strands to a serving dish. Dot the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over the warm squash, allowing it to melt and coat the strands.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered squash and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the light, buttery, and slightly nutty flavor of the air-fried spaghetti squash.
Tips
- Choose a medium-sized squash with a firm, uniform color for the best results.
- Use a sharp, sturdy knife when cutting the squash to ensure clean, safe cuts.
- Don't skip seasoning - salt and pepper are crucial for bringing out the squash's natural flavors.
- Make sure to leave some space between squash halves in the air fryer for even cooking.
- Check the squash a few minutes early to prevent overcooking, as cooking times can vary by air fryer model.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the parsley.
- If you prefer a more golden exterior, you can broil the squash for 1-2 minutes after air frying.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently in the air fryer or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
