Air Fryer Delicata Squash (Quick, Easy & Crispy)
I get so excited when I see delicata squash back in season! These delicata squash rings are simple, cozy, and so good you’ll want to eat them right off the tray. Delicata squash has a naturally sweet flavor, the skin gets tender (no peeling!), and the air fryer gives you those irresistible caramelized edges without any fuss.
There’s something about delicata squash that just feels like fall; warm, cozy, and a little nostalgic. It’s one of the easiest squash varieties to work with (no peeling… bless!), and the air fryer turns it into the perfect mix of tender and crispy in minutes. This is one of those simple sides I make when I want something healthy, satisfying, and full of flavor without spending forever in the kitchen.
Why Delicata Squash Is Good For You
Delicata squash might look a bit strange, but it’s one of those sneaky little superfoods that does so much for your body. It’s naturally rich in fiber (hello, healthy digestion), vitamin A (great for immune support and skin health), and potassium (your heart and muscles love it). It’s lower in carbs than most winter squash varieties and has a natural sweetness that makes healthier eating feel easy with no sugar required to taste delicious. And because you eat the skin, you get even more nutrients and fiber without any extra work.
How To Choose The Best Delicata Squash
- Smooth, firm skin with no soft spots
- Creamy yellow color with bold stripes
- Feels heavy for it’s size, which means it’s fresh and full of moisture
- Dry, intact stem, a sign it was harvested properly
When Is Delicata Squash In Season?
Delicata squash has a shorter season than most winter squash. You’ll typically find the best ones from Late August through early December. That’s the sweet spot when they’re freshest, sweetest and most affordable. They store well, but the quality starts to drop after winter.
How to Store (and Freeze) Delicata Squash
Whole Squash
- Keep it in a cool, dark, dry place (pantry, cupboard, or garage shelf).
- Stored properly, whole delicata squash can last up to 4-6 weeks.
Cut or Cooked Squash
- Store cooked delicata squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- You can also freeze it. Spread cooked slices on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag.
- Frozen cooked delicata squash lasts up to 3 months.
- To reheat: pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispness.
Raw, Cut Squash
- To prep it ahead, store raw slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing raw delicata squash isn’t ideal. The texture gets mushy, so it’s best to freeze cooked squash.
Serving Ideas
- Enjoy as a simple snack
- Serve with any meal as a side dish. I love them in place of French fries.
- Add to fall salads
- Drizzle with a little hot honey for a sweet-spicy version.
Save This For Later!
If this recipe makes your life a little easier (or a little tastier!), tap and hold to pin it so you can come back to it anytime. And if you love simple, healthy recipes, you can follow me on Pinterest for more ideas that make midlife cooking feel fun and doable. 💛
Air Fryer Delicata Squash
Ingredients
- 1 Delicata squash
- Olive oil spray
- 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan cheese
- Favorite seasoning I used Kinder’s Woodfired Garlic
Instructions
- Wash the squash well to remove any dirt.
- Slice off the ends, then cut the squash lengthwise down the center.
- Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard.
- Lay each half flesh-side down so it’s steady, and slice into even 1” half-moon rings.
- Place the slices in a bowl and spritz lightly with olive oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan and your favorite seasoning, then toss to coat.
- Place the squash in a single layer in the air fryer.
- Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, or until tender and lightly crisp on the edges.
Nutrition
Cathy’s Notes & Tips
Here are a few of my tips for making delicata squash.
From My Kitchen Table
If you try this air fryer delicata squash, you’re going to see why it’s a staple in my kitchen this time of year. It’s quick, delicious and it fits right into a busy weeknight or a holiday table. Once you make it this way, you’ll want to grab a few whenever you see them in season. And f you do make it, I’d love to see how you seasoned yours! Tag me on Instagram @cathyshealthylife so I can cheer you on from my kitchen table.