Air Fryer Roasted Pumpkin

From lattes to pies, pumpkin reminds me of the flavor of fall. But have you ever tried Air Fryer Pumpkin? I love how it cuts down on cooking time and also produces a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft and flavorful interior.

I love the versatility of air fryer pumpkin – whether it's roasted as a side dish or blended into a smooth soup, it always adds a level of warmth and comfort to my autumn meals. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods. There's no denying that air fryer pumpkin has become a staple in my fall recipe collection. Today, we will talk about creating an air fryer roasted pumpkin that is both delicious and nutritious.

Which Pumpkin is Best for Roasting?

When it comes to roasted pumpkin, pick a variety that is both flavorful and meaty. Look for pumpkins with dense and sweet flesh, like sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins, which are both perfect for roasting. These types of pumpkins have less water content, making them more suitable for air frying. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try roasting Air Fryer Butternut Squash or Acorn Squash.

Can I Air Fry Halloween Pumpkin?

It's understandable to want to put that leftover pumpkin to good use, and many people may wonder if roasting the Halloween pumpkin is a viable option. The answer is yes! In fact, roasted pumpkin seeds and pumpkin flesh can both make for delightful snacks or additions to meals.

Roasting the pumpkin seeds is a simple process that involves cleaning the seeds, roasting them in the oven with some oil and salt, and enjoying the crunchy result. Roasted pumpkin flesh can be used in a variety of dishes, from purees to soups and stews. So the next time you have a pile of leftover Halloween pumpkins, don't let them go to waste – roast them up in the air fryer for a delicious treat!

Instructions

1. Pick a Pumpkin. First, you’ll need a sweet sugar pumpkin (or pie pumpkin). Wash the exterior, cut the stem off (sometimes called “handle”), then cut it in half, and, using a large spoon, scoop out the seeds. Then cut each half into wedges. Coat them in a tablespoon of melted coconut oil. You can use other oils like olive or avocado as well, or you can spritz them with oil spray. For seasoning, we recommend using a simple mix of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Be sure to coat the wedges evenly with the mix.

2. Preheat your air fryer to 375F (190°C). Once it’s ready, place the wedges in the air fryer basket. Ensure that the wedges are not overcrowded, and they have enough space to cook evenly. Yes, you can use parchment paper for an easy clean-up. Cook for 10 minutes, then carefully pull the basket out of the air fryer. Using tongs, flip the pumpkin wedges over to cook on the other side. Fry again for another 10 minutes, making sure to keep an eye on the pumpkin’s progress.

Use a fork to check on pumpkin flesh. It should be fork tender. When the air fryer pumpkin wedges are cooked, remove them onto a serving dish. You will see that the edges are crispy while the insides are tender and perfectly roasted.

What makes this recipe so different from other pumpkin recipes?

Unlike a typical pumpkin pie or pumpkin soup recipe, this roasted pumpkin recipe doesn’t require any added sweeteners. This makes it a fantastic low-carb option for those who are looking to avoid sugar but still want to experience the taste of fall.

Besides being low in sugar, pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. The beta-carotene in pumpkin has been known to aid in reducing the risk of certain cancers and improve eye health.

Roasting pumpkin in an air fryer is a healthy way to get all of its nutritional benefits.

Leftovers

Place leftover pumpkin wedges in an air-tight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes. Feel free to add roasted pumpkin to your morning sandwiches, oatmeal, or yogurt, or puree it into a spicy pumpkin hummus to serve with your favorite veggies.