Description
This Oil-Free Roasted Kabocha recipe offers a gluten-free, high-protein twist on a classic fall favorite. Using liquid egg whites instead of oil creates a light, nutritious coating while air frying ensures a tender, lightly browned squash with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 heaping cups kabocha squash, about 364 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup liquid egg whites
- 1 tsp cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Prepare the squash: Cut the kabocha squash into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are similar in size for even cooking.
- Coat the squash: Toss the kabocha pieces with liquid egg whites and your choice of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Arrange in air fryer: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then spread the coated squash out in a single, even layer.
- First cook cycle: Air fry the squash at 400°F for 14 minutes to start roasting and softening the squash.
- Toss and continue cooking: Toss the squash to promote even browning and air fry for an additional 6 minutes or until the pieces are tender and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve warm, either alone or paired with a protein-rich side or dip.
Notes
- Cut squash into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; spread squash evenly for best results.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking due to lack of oil.
- Adjust spices based on preference—cinnamon for simple sweetness, pumpkin pie spice for stronger fall flavor.
- Toss squash halfway through cooking for even roasting.
- Leftovers can be stored airtight in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F.
- Kabocha skin is edible; peeling is optional.
- You can roast in a conventional oven at 400°F with similar tossing halfway through the cooking time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: roasted kabocha squash, oil-free kabocha, gluten-free squash recipe, high-protein squash, air fryer kabocha, healthy fall side dish
