Imagine sinking your teeth into the most incredibly crispy, golden-brown fries that are not only delicious but also nutritious! These air fryer butternut squash fries are about to revolutionize your snacking game, offering a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries that will have your taste buds dancing and your body thanking you. With a perfectly crisp exterior, tender interior, and an irresistible Parmesan garlic dipping sauce, this recipe is set to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the butternut squash. Carefully peel the squash using a vegetable peeler, then cut off the ends. Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Cut the squash into fries, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss the fries well until they are evenly coated with the oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all fries are seasoned.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving crispy fries.
- Once preheated, place the seasoned butternut squash fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow for proper air circulation. You may need to cook in batches if you have a small air fryer.
- Cook the fries in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The fries should be golden brown and tender when done.
- While the fries are cooking, prepare the Parmesan garlic dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1/4 cup of mayonnaise. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve the butternut squash fries hot with the Parmesan garlic dipping sauce on the side.
- Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer butternut squash fries!
Tips
- Cut Consistency is Key: Ensure your butternut squash fries are cut to a uniform 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Work in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation, which is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
- Shake Midway: Always shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides of the fries get evenly crisp.
- Pat Dry: If your squash seems extra moist, pat the cut fries with a paper towel before adding oil to help them crisp up better.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or thyme to customize the flavor profile.
- Sauce Variation: For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dipping sauce.
- Storage Tip: These fries are best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 225kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
