Cooking fresh broccoli in your air fryer could not be simpler – once you’ve prepped the veggie, all you need to do is lightly coat it with oil or seasoning, pop it in the basket, and let the air fryer do its magic. Follow this easy step-by-step guide on how to make crunchy, tender broccoli in your air fryer.
Air Fryer Broccoli
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to prepare a complicated meal. The air fryer broccoli pairs well with almost any main course, adding a nutritious boost of vitamins and minerals to your plate. Plus, it’s so tasty that even picky eaters will enjoy it.
Ingredients
- 1 head of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings such as cumin, red chili flakes, Italian seasoning, or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of water (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the broccoli florets in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 8 minutes or until desired crispness is achieved.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and any optional seasonings you choose.
5. For extra tenderness, add one tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer before cooking.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Nutrition (per serving)
Air Fryer Broccoli is a nutritious and delicious side dish that can be enjoyed guilt-free. One serving of this dish contains only 40 calories and provides a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium.
Additionally, broccoli is low in fat and cholesterol-free. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their risk of heart disease.
Notes
- Make sure to cut the broccoli into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
- If using frozen broccoli, cook for 10 minutes instead of 8.
- For a crispy texture, cook at a higher temperature (400 degrees Fahrenheit).
- To prevent burning, add one tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer before cooking.
Pro tips for the best air fryer broccoli
Air frying is an easy and healthy way to cook broccoli. To get the best results, it’s important to start with fresh broccoli and slice the florets into equal-sized pieces for even cooking.
Additionally, you can switch up the seasoning with cumin, red chili flakes, Italian seasoning, or lemon juice for a flavorful dish. Toss the florets with seasonings before transferring them to the air fryer basket. Add one tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer for extra tenderness and to prevent burning.
Serving freshly cooked broccoli is always best as frozen broccoli won’t get as crispy when air fried. If you want a quick and easy side dish that’s full of flavor, try air-frying your broccoli! With just a few simple steps and some creative seasonings, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal in no time at all. So next time you’re looking for a healthy side dish, try air frying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I cook fresh broccoli in the air fryer, and how does it compare to other cooking methods?
A: Yes, you can cook fresh broccoli in the air fryer. Air frying fresh broccoli results in a crispy texture on the edges while maintaining a tender inside. It’s a quick and efficient method, and the air fryer uses less oil compared to traditional frying.
Q: What temperature and time settings should I use for air frying fresh broccoli?
A: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Toss fresh broccoli florets in olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the broccoli is golden brown and crisp at the edges.
Q: Can I season fresh broccoli before air frying, and what are some recommended seasonings?
A: Absolutely! Before air frying, toss the fresh broccoli in olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any preferred herbs and spices. This enhances the flavor and adds a delicious touch to the broccoli.
Q: Should I use fresh or frozen broccoli for air frying, and does it affect the cooking time?
A: While you can use either fresh or frozen broccoli, fresh broccoli is recommended for optimal texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry before air frying. Cooking time may vary slightly, so monitor the broccoli to achieve the desired crispiness.
Q: Can I cook other vegetables with fresh broccoli in the air fryer, and how does that affect the cooking process?
A: Yes, you can cook a variety of vegetables together in the air fryer. However, it’s essential to consider the cooking times of each vegetable. If combining with quicker-cooking vegetables, add them later in the cooking process to ensure even doneness.
Conclusion
Air frying is a great way to cook fresh broccoli quickly and easily. With just a few simple steps and some creative seasonings, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal in no time at all.
Make sure to cut the broccoli into equal-sized pieces for even cooking, add one tablespoon of water to the bottom of the air fryer before cooking, and switch up the seasoning with cumin, red chili flakes, Italian seasoning, or lemon juice for a flavorful dish. With air frying, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish that’s full of flavor without all the added fat and calories.
Meet our air fryer recipe expert, Jenny J. Brown. Jenny is a culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating healthy, delicious meals using the latest kitchen appliances. As an experienced home cook and food blogger, Jenny has spent years experimenting with air fryer recipes and perfecting her techniques to create meals that are both nutritious and satisfying.
