Air Fryer Delicata Squash with Maple Tahini, Za’atar and Pomegranate

Name: Air Fryer Delicata Squash with Maple Tahini, Za’atar and Pomegranate
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 31 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Fusión mediterránea
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb delicata squash; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp water; 2 tsp za’atar; 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds; 2 tbsp fresh parsley

An original air fryer recipe where delicata squash turns tender inside and caramelized around the edges, finished with a silky maple tahini sauce, fragrant za’atar, and fresh pomegranate seeds for juicy crunch and contrast.

15 minPrep

16 minCook

31 minTotal

4Servings

VegetarianVeganDairy-Free

Ingredients

Adjust servings

700 g delicata squash (1/2 in)
15 ml olive oil (for the calabaza)
4 g salt (divided)
1 g black pepper (freshly ground)
2 g garlic powder
2 g smoked paprika
60 ml tahini
30 ml maple syrup
30 ml lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
30 ml water (for ajustar the sauce)
6 g za’atar
80 g pomegranate seeds
8 g fresh parsley (chopped fino)

Nutrition facts

per serving

157 kcal

Calories

3.1 g

Protein

19.4 g

Carbs

8.6 g

Fat

3.9 g

Fiber

15.5 g

Net carbs

Approximate nutritional information. Estimated from the recipe’s ingredients and amounts, using standard reference nutrition values. It may vary with brands, sizes and cooking method. For guidance only; not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

Allergens

Sesame

Instructions

1
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F / 193°C for 3 minutes.
2
In a large bowl, toss the delicata squash with the olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
3
Arrange the squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 380°F / 193°C for 8 minutes.
4
Open the basket, flip the pieces, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes more at 380°F / 193°C, until the squash is tender and browned on the edges.
5
Meanwhile, make the sauce by whisking together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, water, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl until smooth and lightly pourable.
6
Transfer the cooked squash to a serving platter. Drizzle the maple tahini sauce over the top.
7
Finish with the za’atar, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
8
If you want to reheat it, return the squash alone to the air fryer at 350°F / 177°C for 2 to 3 minutes and add the sauce and toppings afterward.

Chef tips

Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed for better browning. Delicata squash has edible skin, so there is no need to peel it.

Substitutions

You can swap delicata squash for acorn squash cut into thin half-moons. Maple syrup can be replaced with honey if you do not need a vegan version. If you do not have za’atar, use a mix of dried oregano, thyme, and an extra pinch of sesame seeds.

What I used to make it

Generic kitchen tools that work for this recipe. You don’t need to buy anything to make it.

Illustrative image
Cosori Pro LE 5 Qt Air Fryer
Browning and baking with little oil
- Browns food with very little oil
- Handy for vegetables, chicken and reheating
- Check the basket capacity
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Illustrative image
Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8" Chef’s Knife
Chopping, slicing and cutting strips
- The knife I use most when cooking
- Chops, slices and cuts into strips
- Keep it sharp and hand-dry it
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Illustrative image
Teakhaus Teak Cutting Board
Stable base for chopping
- Stable surface for chopping
- Gentle on your knife edge
- Hand-wash and let it dry
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