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 meal
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
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
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.
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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.
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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.