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A perfectly cooked air fryer spaghetti squash, shredded into golden strands, served in a bowl as a delicious low-carb keto side dish.

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
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

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

    1. 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.
    2. 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.