Craving the golden, crispy bite of roasted sweet potato cubes but want to keep your carbs ultra-low? These Keto Air Fryer Swede Cubes are the perfect solution! Swede (also known as rutabaga) delivers a subtly sweet, earthy flavour and a potato-like texture, but with a fraction of the carbs.
Using an air fryer means you get all the crunch and caramelisation you love, with minimal oil and fuss. Simply toss diced swede with olive oil and your favourite seasonings, then air fry until golden and crisp on the outside, tender inside.
This recipe is ideal for meal prep, quick sides, or a satisfying snack. Serve them as a low-carb chip alternative, a base for loaded toppings, or alongside your favourite protein. With just a handful of ingredients and less than 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious, keto-friendly treat that fits perfectly into your healthy lifestyle.
At a glance
- Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 2
- Cost: Inexpensive
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbs: 7 g
- Energy: 120 kcal
Ingredients
- 400g Swede (rutabaga) (Peeled and cut into 1.5cm cubes)
- 1.5 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt (Or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Steps
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the swede cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 12 minutes, then shake the basket or turn the cubes for even browning.
- Continue air frying for another 6–8 minutes, or until the cubes are golden, crisp on the edges, and fork-tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: No known allergens
Potential swaps:
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — Use if you prefer a more neutral flavour or higher smoke point.
- Swede (rutabaga) → Celeriac — For a slightly different flavour and texture, but still low-carb.
- Smoked paprika → Curry powder — For a spiced twist.
Serving Ideas
- With sour cream and chives – for a classic, creamy dip.
- As a base for loaded keto nachos – top with cheese, jalapeños, and cooked mince.
- Alongside grilled chicken or steak – for a hearty, low-carb meal.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Cut the swede into even cubes for uniform cooking.
- Pat the cubes dry with kitchen paper before oiling for maximum crispness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – cook in batches if needed.
Variations
- Toss with grated parmesan and fresh rosemary before air frying for an Italian twist.
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick.
- Sprinkle with lemon zest and parsley after cooking for a fresh finish.
Troubleshooting
- If cubes are soggy, reduce the amount of oil and increase air fryer time.
- If not browning, ensure the air fryer is preheated and cubes are spaced out.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled swede cubes in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 1 months
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 3–4 minutes until hot and crisp.
Ingredient Spotlight
Swede (rutabaga): A root vegetable with a mild, sweet flavour and much lower carbs than potato or sweet potato.
Olive oil: Adds healthy fats and helps achieve a crispy, golden finish in the air fryer.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the swede cubes ahead and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.
Are swede cubes keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Swede is much lower in carbs than sweet potato, making it ideal for keto diets.
Can I use other seasonings?
Yes, feel free to swap in your favourite herbs or spices such as rosemary, thyme, or curry powder.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can roast the cubes in a hot oven at 220°C for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway.
How do I get them extra crispy?
Ensure the cubes are well dried before tossing with oil, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Keto Air Fryer Swede Cubes – Crispy Low-Carb Potato Alternative
Ingredients
- 400g Swede (rutabaga) (Peeled and cut into 1.5cm cubes)
- 1.5 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt (Or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the swede cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 12 minutes, then shake the basket or turn the cubes for even browning.
- Continue air frying for another 6–8 minutes, or until the cubes are golden, crisp on the edges, and fork-tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: none
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — Use if you prefer a more neutral flavour or higher smoke point.
- Swede (rutabaga) → Celeriac — For a slightly different flavour and texture, but still low-carb.
- Smoked paprika → Curry powder — For a spiced twist.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbs: 7 g
- Energy: 120 kcal
