Crispy Air Fryer Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs
Delightful Air Fryer Recipe: Crispy Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs
Acorn squash, with its sweet and nutty flavor, is a quintessential autumn vegetable that makes a fantastic side dish or snack. When prepared in an air fryer, it becomes irresistibly crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. In this recipe, we'll show you how to create mouthwatering Air Fryer Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs, a delightful combination of seasonal flavors. The aromatic herbs and the natural sweetness of the squash make this a perfect addition to your fall menu.
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Ingredients
Steps to make it
Nutrition Facts
Side Dish
Recipe Cuisine:
Contemporary and Healthy
Servings:
4 people
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Several factors contribute to making the Air Fryer Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs a great recipe:
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer cooking method yields perfectly crispy acorn squash wedges on the outside while keeping them tender on the inside. This balance of textures enhances the overall eating experience.
- Flavorful Herbs: The use of fresh rosemary, thyme, and garlic infuses the squash with aromatic and savory flavors. The herbs pair excellently with the natural sweetness of acorn squash, creating a harmonious taste profile.
- Ease of Preparation: This recipe is relatively quick and straightforward, making it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks. It's an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Seasonal Appeal: Acorn squash is a quintessential autumn ingredient, making this recipe a perfect addition to fall menus. The dish embodies the warmth and comfort associated with seasonal cooking.
- Versatility: While the recipe is delicious on its own, it also pairs exceptionally well with various proteins, grains, and salads, allowing you to customize your meal according to your preferences.
- Health Benefits: Acorn squash is a nutrient-rich vegetable, it is particularly known for its high vitamin A content, which is important for vision and immune health. It's also a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion, and contains various essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, acorn squash is relatively low in calories, making it a nutritious and low-calorie addition to your diet. Air frying reduces the need for excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
- Visual Appeal: The colorful and crispy wedges, garnished with fresh herbs, make for an aesthetically pleasing dish that's inviting and appetizing.
- Customization: You can easily adapt the herb marinade to suit your taste by adjusting the herb types and quantities, allowing for personalization.
- Balance of Flavors: The combination of sweet acorn squash with savory herbs, along with the addition of a touch of salt and pepper, creates a well-balanced and satisfying flavor profile.
- Flexibility: The dish is suitable for a variety of dining occasions, from weeknight family dinners to holiday gatherings. It can be served as a side or a standalone vegetarian dish.
This recipe's success lies in its ability to deliver a delightful, seasonal, and well-balanced dish that's both visually appealing and easy to prepare. The crispy texture, flavorful herbs, and versatility make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of fall with minimal effort.
This time we made it with KINDERS Organic Red Jalapeno & Garlic Seasoning, which added an extra kick, but feel free to experiment with other herbs and seasonings!
Step by Step Recipe Instruction Video:
Ingredients:
- 1 medium acorn squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Steps to make it:
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Prepare the Squash:
- Wash and dry the acorn squash. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice it in half horizontally, just below the stem.
- Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from each squash half using a spoon.
- Cut each squash half into wedges about 1 inch thick. Leave the skin on; it becomes deliciously crispy in the air fryer.
Prepare the Herb Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant herb marinade.
Coat the Squash:
- Place the acorn squash wedges in a large bowl and drizzle the herb marinade over them. Gently toss the wedges to ensure they are evenly coated with the herb mixture.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.
Air Fry the Squash:
- Carefully arrange the herb-coated acorn squash wedges in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the wedges halfway through, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and fork-tender on the inside. The exact cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the wedges, so keep an eye on them.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the acorn squash wedges are perfectly crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Plate them up and garnish with additional fresh herbs for a burst of flavor and aroma.
These Air Fryer Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs are an ideal autumn side dish, and they're quick and easy to make. The crispy, herb-infused goodness will have you savoring the flavors of the season with every bite. Enjoy them as a tasty side for your holiday gatherings or as a delicious addition to your weeknight meals.
Pairing ideas for your Air Fryer Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs can help create a well-balanced and delicious meal. Here are some suggestions:
Protein Pairings:
- Grilled or Roasted Chicken: The savory herbs of the squash wedges complement the mild flavor of grilled or roasted chicken.
- Baked Salmon: The sweetness of acorn squash is a great match for the richness of salmon, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Sautéed Shrimp: The crispy squash wedges provide a nice contrast to the tender, savory shrimp.
Grains and Starches:
- Quinoa: Serve the squash with a side of quinoa for a wholesome and protein-rich vegetarian meal.
- Wild Rice: The earthy flavors of wild rice pair wonderfully with the herbs and sweet acorn squash.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting accompaniment to the crispy squash wedges.
Salads:
- Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add a fresh and vibrant element to your meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a balsamic dressing is a classic side that complements the squash's flavors.
Sauces and Dips:
- Garlic Aioli: A homemade garlic aioli or a yogurt-based herb dip can elevate the flavors and add a creamy component to your meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: For a holiday twist, serve the acorn squash with a side of cranberry sauce.
Beverage Pairings:
- Chardonnay: A crisp and oaked Chardonnay can complement the buttery and herb-infused notes of the dish.
- Apple Cider: A glass of cold or warm apple cider is a delightful match for a fall-inspired meal.
- Sparkling Water with a Twist: Enhance your meal with sparkling water infused with citrus or herbs.
Dessert Options:
- Pumpkin Pie: Keep the autumn theme going with a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Balance the savory with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce.
Remember to adjust the pairings to your preferences and dietary restrictions. These ideas offer a starting point for creating a complete and satisfying meal centered around your Air Fryer Acorn Squash Wedges with Herbs.
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Nutritional information provided is an estimate only. Please consult the labels of ingredients you use for more accurate results. Daily Value on the Nutrition and Supplement Facts Labels.
