This Easy Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli is a fun and healthy side dish! With just a few ingredients, you can make your broccoli crispy and flavorful in no time.
Who knew veggies could be this tasty? I like to sprinkle some cheese on top after it’s done cooking for a little extra yum. Plus, my kids actually eat their greens—bonus!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is the star of this dish. You can also use frozen broccoli, but fresh gives a better texture. If broccoli isn’t in season, cauliflower is a great substitute for similar results.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the broccoli crisp up. If you don’t have it, avocado oil or melted coconut oil are good alternatives.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice flavor boost. If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic instead—just adjust the quantity to your taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a lovely cheese flavor. You could swap it with nutritional yeast for a vegan option or use any cheese you enjoy.
How Do I Get the Broccoli Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, proper preparation is key. Here’s how to make sure your broccoli gets nice and crispy in the air fryer:
- Make sure to dry your broccoli florets well after washing. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Cut the florets into uniform sizes for even cooking. Smaller florets will crisp up better.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket! This allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring even cooking.
- Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps achieve a golden flavor on all sides.
Easy Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Total time: approximately 15-20 minutes. Perfect for a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps get the broccoli nice and crispy right from the start!
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
In a large bowl, toss your broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure every piece is evenly coated for the best flavor and crispiness.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, it’s better to cook in batches to give each piece enough space to crisp up nicely.
4. Air Fry the Broccoli:
Cook the broccoli for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. This will help achieve an even golden color on all sides. You’ll know it’s done when it’s tender with crispy edges!
5. Add Final Touches:
Once cooked, transfer the broccoli to a serving plate. If you want, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze of tanginess!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your deliciously crispy air fryer broccoli! It’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and air frying. This will help achieve that desired crispiness.
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra flavor. Experimenting with different spices can add a delightful twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Broccoli?
Store any leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can toss it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness or use the microwave if you prefer.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. The recipe will still be delicious!
