Air Fried Butternut Squash Tacos Recipes
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious meal to enjoy, then air-fried butternut squash tacos may be just what you need. The dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, leaving you feeling satisfied without weighing you down. Air fried butternut squash tacos are easy to make, and the best part is that they're good for your body.
Ingredients
To make air-fried butternut squash tacos, you will need the following ingredients:
- Butternut squash
- Corn tortillas
- Red onion
- Jalapeno
- Shredded lettuce
- Cilantro
- Avocado
- Spices (cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper)
Preparation
Begin your preparation by pre-heating your air fryer to 375°F. While the air fryer is heating up, you can start preparing your butternut squash for cooking. Peel the squash, remove the seeds, and cut them into small cubes. Toss the cubes in a mixing bowl with the spices you have selected, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Once the squash is well-spiced, place it into the air fryer's basket, ensuring that it's arranged in a single layer. Set the timer for 12-15 minutes, checking it periodically to ensure that it's cooking evenly. Once the squash is cooked and golden brown, remove it from the air fryer and allow it to cool.
As the butternut squash cools, you can begin preparing your vegetables. Finely chop your red onion and jalapeno, then wash your lettuce and cilantro. Mash your avocado, season it with salt and pepper, and place it into a small bowl. This bowl will serve as your guacamole topping.
When your butternut squash and vegetables are ready, warm your tortillas on a stovetop or in the microwave. Finally, assemble your tacos by placing the lettuce, butternut squash, red onion, jalapeno, avocado, and cilantro on top of each tortilla.
Benefits of air-frying butternut squash tacos
Air-frying butternut squash tacos is an excellent way to indulge in a delicious meal without compromising your health. Butternut squash is low in calories, high in fiber and nutrients, making air-fried butternut squash tacos a nutritious and low-calorie option. Additionally, air-frying requires minimal oil, which means that the food is less fatty than fried dishes.
Air-frying also produces food that is crispy on the outside, while retaining moisture on the inside. This means that your butternut squash will be crispy, golden-brown, and evenly cooked. Finally, air-frying is an easy and quick cooking method that requires minimal clean-up. This means that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
Conclusion
Air-fried butternut squash tacos are a fantastic meal option for anyone looking for a nutritious, low-calorie meal that is easy to make. The dish is simple to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. It's also a great way to indulge in a delicious meal without compromising your health. So, next time you're looking for something healthy and delicious, consider making air-fried butternut squash tacos.
Valuable Tips When Making Air Fried Butternut Squash Tacos Recipes
1. Choose the Right Butternut Squash
When making air fried butternut squash tacos, it is essential to choose the right butternut squash. Look for squash that is heavy and firm, without any soft spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth, and the stem should be intact. The best butternut squashes for air frying are those that have a uniform shape, as these are easier to cut into even pieces.
2. Cut Squash into Small Pieces
To ensure that your butternut squash cooks evenly, it is important to cut it into small, even pieces. You can cut the squash into cubes or wedges, depending on your preference. Just be sure to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size. This will also make it easier to fit the squash into your air fryer basket.
3. Season the Squash Before Frying
Before air frying your butternut squash, it is important to season it well. Toss the squash pieces in a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. You can also add chili powder or cumin for an extra kick. The more flavor you can add to the squash before frying, the better the final dish will taste.
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer
One of the keys to successful air frying is to preheat your air fryer. This ensures that it is at the right temperature when you start cooking. This is especially important when cooking butternut squash, as it ensures that the squash will cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
5. Shake the Basket Frequently
When cooking butternut squash in an air fryer, it is important to shake the basket frequently. This helps to ensure that the squash cooks evenly and gets crispy on all sides. Set a timer to remind you to shake the basket every 5-7 minutes.
6. Use Parchment Paper to Prevent Sticking
To prevent your butternut squash from sticking to the air fryer basket, line it with parchment paper. This will also make it easier to clean up after cooking. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can also use cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
7. Customize Your Tacos
Once your butternut squash is cooked and crispy, it’s time to assemble your tacos. You can use any toppings you like, but some popular options include salsa, avocado, cilantro, and cheese. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether.
8. Serve Immediately
Air fried butternut squash tacos are best when served immediately. This ensures that the squash stays crispy and doesn’t get soggy. If you need to wait to serve the tacos, you can keep the cooked squash warm in a low oven until you are ready to assemble the tacos.
9. Experiment with Different Seasonings
One of the best things about air frying butternut squash is that you can experiment with different seasonings to create different flavor profiles. Try adding cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet and spicy version, or Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new combinations.
10. Use Leftover Squash for Other Dishes
If you have leftover butternut squash after making tacos, don’t let it go to waste. You can use it in other dishes throughout the week, such as salads, soups, or stir-fries. The possibilities are endless, and the cooked squash will last several days in the fridge.
In conclusion
Air frying butternut squash tacos is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish. By following these valuable tips, you can ensure that your butternut squash is cooked to perfection and deliciously crispy. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!
