Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious low-carb side dish? This air fryer spaghetti squash recipe is a game-changer for anyone following a keto lifestyle.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash:
- 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
- Optional toppings:
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (sugar-free for keto)
- 1/4 cup alfredo sauce (low-carb version)
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
This simple ingredient list ensures your air fryer spaghetti squash turns out perfectly every time, whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course. Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days!
Step-by-Step Directions
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Prepare the Squash:
- Start by washing the spaghetti squashthoroughly under running water.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. Be sure to stabilize the squash on a cutting board to avoid accidents.
- Use a spoon to scoop out the seedsand any stringy bits from the center. Discard the seeds or save them for roasting later.
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Season the Squash:
- Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is lightly coated.
- Sprinkle evenly with saltand black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C)for about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Squash:
- Place the squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down. Make sure they fit comfortably without overlapping.
- Air fry for 20 minutes, or until the squash is fork tender. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the flesh—it should easily shred into spaghetti-like strands.
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Shred the Squash:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the squash halves from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts (they’ll be hot!).
- Let them cool for a few minutes, then use a fork to scrape the flesh. The strands should separate easily, resembling spaghetti noodles.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the shredded squash to a serving dish.
- Top with your favorite low-carb sauces, such as tomato sauceor alfredo sauce, or enjoy it as-is for a simple, healthy side dish.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
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Store Leftovers:
- If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigeratorfor up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.
This easy air fryer spaghetti squash recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and it’s a fantastic addition to your keto-friendly menu!
Storage Instructions:
To keep your cooked air fryer spaghetti squash fresh and ready for later, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’ve already shredded the squash, place the strands in the container, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to maintain moisture and prevent odors from affecting the flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the squash in the air fryer for a few minutes or warm it in the microwave. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the whole cooked halves (unshredded) and shred them just before serving. This method helps preserve the texture and flavor, making it a convenient option for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
Tips for Achieving Maximum Flavor:
To elevate the taste of your air fryer spaghetti squash, start by generously seasoning the squash halves with salt and pepper before cooking. For an extra layer of flavor, brush the cut sides with a high-quality olive oil or infused oil, like garlic or herb-infused varieties. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle on a pinch of smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning before air frying. Once the squash is cooked and shredded, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter to enhance its richness. For a keto-friendly twist, top it with a creamy alfredo sauce or a zesty tomato sauce, and finish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. These simple tweaks will transform your spaghetti squash into a flavorful, restaurant-worthy dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I cook spaghetti squash in the air fryer without cutting it first?
No, it’s best to cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwisebefore air frying. This ensures even cooking and allows you to easily scoop out the seedsand season the flesh for maximum flavor.
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How do I know when the spaghetti squash is done cooking?
The squash is ready when it’s fork tender. Insert a fork into the flesh—if it shreds easily into spaghetti-like strands, it’s done. This typically takes about 20 minutesin the air fryer at 375°F (190°C).
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Can I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigeratorfor up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving to restore its texture and warmth.
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What sauces pair well with air fryer spaghetti squash?
Spaghetti squash pairs beautifully with low-carb options like tomato sauceor alfredo sauce. You can also keep it simple with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper for a lighter option.
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Can I meal prep air fryer spaghetti squash?
Absolutely! Cook and shred the squash ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply reheat and add your favorite toppings or sauces for a quick, keto-friendly meal.
Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash: The Perfect Low-Carb Keto Side Dish
Cooked to perfection, the squash turns into tender, noodle-like strands, making it a great substitute for pasta or a versatile addition to any mealIngredients
Ingredients :
- 1 medium spaghetti squash about 2-3 pounds
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground for best flavor
Optional toppings:
- ½ cup tomato sauce sugar-free for keto
- ¼ cup alfredo sauce low-carb version
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Directions for Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash:
Prepare the Squash:
- o Start by washing the spaghetti squash thoroughly under running water.
- o Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. Be sure to stabilize the squash on a cutting board to avoid accidents.
- o Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any stringy bits from the center. Discard the seeds or save them for roasting later.
Season the Squash:
- o Drizzle the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is lightly coated.
- o Sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- o Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Cook the Squash:
- o Place the squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down. Make sure they fit comfortably without overlapping.
- o Air fry for 20 minutes, or until the squash is fork tender. To check for doneness, insert a fork into the flesh—it should easily shred into spaghetti-like strands.
Shred the Squash:
- o Once cooked, carefully remove the squash halves from the air fryer using tongs or oven mitts (they’ll be hot!).
- o Let them cool for a few minutes, then use a fork to scrape the flesh. The strands should separate easily, resembling spaghetti noodles.
Serve and Enjoy:
- o Transfer the shredded squash to a serving dish.
- o Top with your favorite low-carb sauces, such as tomato sauce or alfredo sauce, or enjoy it as-is for a simple, healthy side dish.
- o Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
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Choosing the Right Squash:
Look for a firm spaghetti squash without any soft spots or blemishes. A medium-sized squash (about 2-3 pounds) works best for this recipe. -
Cutting the Squash Safely:
Spaghetti squash can be tough to cut. To make it easier, microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin slightly before cutting it in half lengthwise.