Ready to elevate your broccoli game? Dive into this air fryer broccoli recipe for crispy, seasoned goodness in every bite!
Looking for more? Try my Roasted Baby Broccoli, Grilled Vegetables, and Vegetable Stir Fry.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's crispy goodness: Who can resist that perfect crunch and charred edges?
- Flavor explosion: From the garlic and onion powders to the sprinkle of Parmesan, every bite is a flavor party!
- Easy-peasy cooking: Toss it in the air fryer, shake it up, and voilà – broccoli bliss in minutes!
Is Broccoli Healthy?
Yes, broccoli is considered a highly nutritious vegetable. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Broccoli also contains fiber and is low in calories, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet. Regular consumption of broccoli has been linked to various health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and lowered risk of certain chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer. Incorporating broccoli into your meals can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card.
- Broccoli: The star of the show, offering crunch and nutrients. You can also use cauliflower for a tasty twist.
- Olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps achieve that crispy texture. Swap with avocado oil if preferred.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors. Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends!
- Garlic powder: Infuses the broccoli with delicious garlic flavor without the hassle of chopping garlic cloves. Fresh minced garlic is also an option for garlic enthusiasts.
- Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion kick, elevating the overall taste. Finely chopped fresh onion can be a flavorful alternative.
- Seasoning: Adds depth and complexity to the dish. Try your favorite seasoning blend or experiment with smoked paprika or cumin for a twist.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Offers a savory, cheesy finish. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a similar umami boost.
How to Make this Recipe
Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card.
Prep the Broccoli: Cut the broccoli into florets and toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and your favorite seasoning blend. Make sure each floret is coated evenly.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F to get it nice and toasty.
Air Fry the Broccoli: Once the air fryer is heated up, spread the seasoned broccoli in a single layer in the basket. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking. You want the broccoli to be crispy and slightly charred around the edges.
Optional Cheese Topping: If you're feeling cheesy, sprinkle some grated Parmesan over the air-fried broccoli for an extra flavor boost.
Serve and Enjoy: Once it's done cooking, serve your crispy broccoli straight out of the air fryer and dig in! It's perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack anytime.
Cleaning Up: Don't forget to clean up your air fryer basket afterward. It's a breeze compared to oven pans!
Storage Tips: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for a minute or two to re-crisp. Voila!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish: Serve the air-fried broccoli alongside your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a complete and balanced meal.
- Salad: Toss the air-fried broccoli with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing for a nutritious and satisfying salad.
- Pasta Dish: Mix the air-fried broccoli into your favorite pasta dish along with some garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese for a simple yet flavorful meal.
- Snack: Enjoy the air-fried broccoli on its own as a tasty and nutritious snack, or dip it in hummus or Greek yogurt for added flavor.
- Bowl Meal: Create a Buddha bowl by combining the air-fried broccoli with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, avocado slices, and a drizzle of tahini dressing for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
- Stir-fry: Incorporate the air-fried broccoli into a stir-fry with other vegetables, tofu, or shrimp, and your favorite stir-fry sauce for a quick and delicious meal.
- Sandwich or Wrap: Add the air-fried broccoli to sandwiches or wraps along with your favorite fillings such as sliced turkey, cheese, avocado, and lettuce for a nutritious and portable meal option.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist that'll keep you coming back for more.
- Cheesy Delight: Swap out the Parmesan for shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy indulgence that'll make your taste buds dance.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the broccoli after air frying for a zesty burst of flavor that'll brighten up any meal.
- Asian Fusion: Drizzle soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds over the broccoli before air frying for an Asian-inspired dish that's packed with umami goodness.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to add a fragrant and earthy dimension to your air-fried broccoli that'll leave you feeling like a gourmet chef
Wine Pairing
For a light-hearted and casual pairing, a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors of the air-fried broccoli beautifully. Its bright acidity and fruity notes will enhance the dish without overpowering it, making it the perfect choice for a relaxed meal or gathering. Cheers to tasty combinations!
FAQ's
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine. No need to thaw it either—just toss it in the air fryer straight from the freezer for convenience.
- How do I prevent the broccoli from burning in the air fryer? Make sure to shake the air fryer basket occasionally during cooking to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent any unwanted char.
- Can I skip the Parmesan cheese? Of course! The Parmesan adds a tasty touch, but feel free to omit it for a dairy-free or lighter option. The broccoli will still be delicious without it.
- What other seasonings can I use? Get creative! Experiment with your favorite spices and herbs—try smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a flavorful twist.
- How do I know when the broccoli is done? Look for crispy edges and a tender texture. It should be golden brown and slightly charred. If in doubt, give it a taste test—it's ready when it's just right for you
Tips
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer: Give your broccoli some space to breathe for optimal crispiness—crowded florets can lead to soggy results!
- Keep it shaken, not stirred: Shake the air fryer basket occasionally during cooking to ensure even browning and crispy perfection on all sides.
- Preheat for success: Preheating your air fryer ensures that the broccoli starts cooking immediately, helping to achieve that irresistible crunch faster.
- Embrace the seasoning: Don't be shy with the spices! Season generously to elevate the flavor of your broccoli and make each bite a tasty adventure.
- Don't forget the finishing touch: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of lemon juice can take your air-fried broccoli from good to gourmet—don't skip the final flourish!
Looking for more recipes?
Looking for more? Try my Roasted Baby Broccoli, Grilled Vegetables, and Vegetable Stir Fry.
Did You Make this Recipe?
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Recipe Card
📋 Recipe
Air Fryer Broccoli
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Ingredients
- 1 Medium Broccoli head cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon Salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon Pepper adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Seasoning you can use your favorite seasoning blend
- 1 tablespoon Grated Parmesan Cheese optional
Instructions
- Seasoning: Start by tossing the broccoli florets in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other seasonings of your choice. You can use red pepper flakes or any other preferred seasoning. Make sure to coat the broccoli evenly with the seasoning mixture. You can also use a zip lock bag or a plastic container to shake the broccoli for an even coating.
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cooking: Once the air fryer is preheated, add the seasoned broccoli to the basket in a single layer. Spread the broccoli evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Time: Cook the broccoli in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes. During the cooking process, shake the basket occasionally to ensure that the broccoli cooks evenly. The broccoli should become crispy and slightly charred around the edges.
- Finishing Touches: Once the broccoli is cooked to your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the air fryer. Optionally, you can sprinkle the air-fried broccoli with grated Parmesan cheese, minced onion, minced garlic, or an everything bagel seasoning blend for added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the air-fried broccoli immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish or snack.
Notes
- Frozen Broccoli: Frozen broccoli from the supermarket can be used for air frying without the need for thawing. Season with oil and seasoning, then air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Frozen broccoli is partially cooked or blanched, making it convenient for air frying.
- Leftovers: Store leftover air-fried broccoli in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. To re-crisp, simply air fry at 350°F for 1-2 minutes per side to restore the inner warmth and crispy exterior.
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