Air Fryer Broccoli

Name: Air Fryer Broccoli
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-494209H27M14S
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; ½ teaspoon garlic salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons water; Fresh lemon wedges (optional); Shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

Last Thursday, after picking up Alex and Sarah from soccer practice, we needed a quick dinner solution, and this Air Fryer Broccoli came to the rescue. It's magic how a few basic ingredients can turn into something so delightful and satisfying. Perfect for those bustling weeknights when you crave something homemade yet quick to serve. This has become a weeknight staple, and if you're looking for an easy yet delicious addition to your meal, try pairing it with our Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies for a delightful finish.

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Why you’ll love this recipe
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Recipe tips & variations
Storage & reheating
FAQs
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Air Fryer Broccoli

Why you’ll love this recipe

This Air Fryer Broccoli is a game-changer for busy evenings. Not only does it take just 13 minutes from start to finish, but it also makes your kitchen smell amazing and keeps the broccoli crispy yet tender. It's a family favorite, especially because Alex loves the crispy edges. Plus, with minimal cleanup needed, it's no wonder why my family asks for this dish repeatedly.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons water
Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-step instructions

To a large bowl, add the fresh broccoli florets, olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper. Toss to evenly coat the broccoli florets in the oil and seasonings.
Preheat the air fryer at 375°F for 3 minutes, then add the water to the bottom of the preheated air fryer.
Add the seasoned broccoli florets to the basket of the air fryer in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, toss the broccoli, then continue to air fry for another 3-5 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned and crisp on the edges.
Transfer the air-fried broccoli to a serving bowl and garnish with optional shredded parmesan cheese and fresh lemon wedges.

Recipe tips & variations

For best results, ensure the broccoli is completely dry before tossing it in the olive oil and seasonings. If you're out of garlic salt, regular salt and a sprinkle of garlic powder work well too. And don’t shy away from experimenting with spices—try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a little kick!

If you have younger kids like my Sarah, who may be skeptical about broccoli, the addition of shredded parmesan can make all the difference. It's surprising how cheese transforms vegetables!

Storage & reheating

Store any leftover Air Fryer Broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to ensure they regain their crispiness—microwaves tend to make them soggy.

FAQs

How do you keep Air Fryer Broccoli crispy instead of soggy?
The key is ensuring your broccoli is dry before cooking. Adding water to the bottom of the air fryer helps crisp without steaming it too much.

Can you make Air Fryer Broccoli with frozen florets?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time; frozen florets may take a minute or two longer.

How long should broccoli cook in the air fryer for a crispy-tender texture?
Typically, 8 to 10 minutes should do the trick, depending on your air fryer's power.

Why do you add water to the air fryer when making Air Fryer Broccoli?
Adding a small amount of water prevents the broccoli from drying out and helps maintain a tender texture.

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