Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe: Crispy, Healthy, and Delicious!

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

If you’re tired of soggy vegetables and want a quick, tasty side dish, air fryer broccoli might be just what you need. In just 10 minutes, you can have crispy, tender broccoli bursting with flavor.

Using a simple blend of olive oil, salt, and pepper, you can transform fresh broccoli into a delightful snack or side dish. The air fryer ensures even cooking, providing a nice char outside while keeping the inside tender. You’ll love how easy and quick it is to prepare this healthy, kid-friendly option.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make delicious air fryer broccoli, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Below, you’ll find essential ingredients and possible substitutes.

Essential Ingredients

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli works best, but frozen can be a backup.
• Olive Oil: Gives flavor and helps the broccoli crisp up. Substitute: Canola oil or any vegetable oil.
• Salt: Enhances taste. Substitute: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
• Pepper: Adds a bit of heat. Substitute: Black pepper or white pepper.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a rich, savory flavor. Substitute: Fresh minced garlic or garlic salt.

Additional Ingredients (Optional)

• Onion Powder: For a more complex flavor profile. Substitute: Finely chopped onions.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a cheesy, savory kick. Substitute: Nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
• Lemon Juice: Optional for a bright, fresh flavor. Substitute: Lime juice.

Quick Tips

• Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like paprika, turmeric, or cumin.
• Oils: For a unique twist, try sesame oil or coconut oil for different flavors.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil can bring extra aroma and taste.

Keep it simple, or get creative with these ingredients and substitutes to make the perfect air fryer broccoli for your taste.

Instructions

First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Next, grab a large bowl and toss together the broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated.

After that, spread the broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This helps them cook evenly.

Set the timer to air fry for 10 minutes.

Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

When the time is up, carefully remove the broccoli and serve immediately.

You can add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon if you like.

Enjoy your crispy and delicious air fryer broccoli!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

To get the best results with your air-fried broccoli, here are some handy tips and tricks:

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  Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always start with a preheated air fryer. This ensures even cooking and makes your broccoli crispy.

  
  
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  Single Layer: Place the broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking.

  
  
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  Toss Midway: Shake or toss the broccoli halfway through cooking. This helps in getting a uniform crisp.

  
  
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  Season Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add more garlic powder, chili flakes, or even a splash of lemon juice after cooking.

  
  

Storing Your Broccoli

Refrigeration: Place your leftover air-fried broccoli in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating: To reheat, pop the broccoli back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes. You can also use a regular oven if needed.

Freezing: You can freeze cooked broccoli. Spread the florets on a baking tray to freeze, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. Reheat straight from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cook time in your air fryer.

By following these tips, your air fryer broccoli will always be delicious and easy to store!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

You can make your air fryer broccoli even tastier with some easy variations. Here are some ideas:

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  Cheesy Broccoli: After air frying, sprinkle shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the broccoli and return it to the air fryer for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted.

  
  
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  Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before air frying for some heat.

  
  
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  Asian Style: Toss your broccoli in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey before cooking. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

  
  

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer broccoli is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. Here are some serving ideas:

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  With Protein: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

  
  
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  Buddha Bowls: Add it to a bowl with quinoa, chickpeas, avocado, and a tahini dressing.

  
  
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  Pasta Dishes: Mix the broccoli into pasta with a light garlic and olive oil sauce, topped with freshly grated Parmesan.

  
  

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and serving styles to match your meal or taste preference!