Air Fryer Broccoli
Air fryer broccoli is a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a great alternative to traditional methods of cooking broccoli. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a snack, this air fryer recipe will become one of your favorites.
Why Make This Recipe
Making air fryer broccoli is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, air frying allows you to achieve a crispy and tender texture without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option compared to frying or roasting in the oven. The high, circulating heat of the air fryer also helps to lock in flavor and nutrients. Additionally, preparing broccoli in an air fryer takes significantly less time than roasting in a conventional oven. In just a matter of minutes, you can have a delicious, guilt-free dish ready to serve!
How to Make Air Fryer Broccoli
Get ready to whip up some perfectly roasted air fryer broccoli that will impress your family and friends. Follow these simple steps to create this wonderful side dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 broccoli crowns (broken into large florets)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tamari
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for topping)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, tamari, and garlic powder. Use your hands to ensure that the tops of the florets are well coated. This prevents them from burning before the stems are cooked through.
- Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each floret. If your air fryer is small, you may need to work in batches.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the broccoli halfway through for even cooking, until they’re tender and golden brown.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success Air Fryer Broccoli
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: To achieve that perfect crispiness, make sure to leave space between the broccoli florets.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time can vary based on the size of your florets, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Try different oils: While olive oil gives a fantastic flavor, experimenting with other oils, like avocado or sesame oil, can add a unique twist.
- Marinate ahead of time: For a more robust flavor, let the broccoli sit in the olive oil and tamari mixture for about 15 minutes before air frying.
- Add cheese: If you’re looking for an extra flavor punch, sprinkle some Parmesan on the broccoli just before the final couple of minutes of air frying.
Flavor Variations Air Fryer Broccoli
- Lemon Zest and Parmesan: After air frying, toss the broccoli with lemon zest and freshly grated Parmesan for a refreshing, tangy flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze on the cooked broccoli for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Spicy Sriracha: Add a dash of Sriracha sauce before cooking for a spicy kick.
- Teriyaki Sauce: Use teriyaki sauce instead of tamari for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different combinations of herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to customize your air-fried broccoli.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Broccoli
Air fryer broccoli is incredibly versatile and can be served alongside various dishes. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also works wonderfully as a topping for grain bowls or served with rice. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with quinoa or mixed bean salads. You can even toss it into pasta for added crunch and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storage and Freezing Instructions Air Fryer Broccoli
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating in the air fryer for a few minutes will help regain some of the crispiness. If you wish to freeze air fryer broccoli, ensure it is completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer until heated through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
FAQ About Air Fryer Broccoli
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! However, be aware that frozen broccoli may require a slightly longer cooking time to get crispy. Make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before air frying for the best results.
What should I do if my broccoli isn’t crispy?
If your broccoli isn’t crispy, it may be due to overcrowding in the air fryer basket. Next time, ensure the florets are spread out in a single layer. Alternatively, you might not have cooked it long enough—try extending the cooking time by a few minutes.
What can I serve with air fryer broccoli?
Air fryer broccoli can be served alongside a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, tofu, rice, or pasta. It also makes a great addition to salads or grain bowls for extra texture and flavor.
Can I prepare air fryer broccoli ahead of time?
While air-fried broccoli is best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the air fryer or microwave when ready to eat. Keep in mind that reheating might not yield the same crispiness.
Is air fryer broccoli suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Air fryer broccoli is a fantastic option for meal prep. Prepare a batch in advance and portion it out for healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer broccoli is a simple yet delightful recipe that everyone can enjoy. With its crispy texture and rich flavor, it’s a nutritious addition to any meal. Plus, the air fryer makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your food. Give this recipe a try, and you may find yourself making air fryer broccoli a regular part of your meal rotation!
Print
Air Fryer Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for air fryer broccoli that achieves a crispy texture without excess oil, making it a healthy side dish or snack.
Ingredients
- 2 broccoli crowns (broken into large florets)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tamari
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for topping)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, tamari, and garlic powder until well coated.
- Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each floret.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and sesame seeds, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
For best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. You can also experiment with different oils or add Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
