Description
This Easy Broccoli Air Fryer Recipe delivers a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish featuring fresh broccoli florets tossed in olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Air-fried to achieve tender insides and crispy edges, it’s an ideal addition to weeknight meals or meal prep and complements dishes like chicken, fish, or beef perfectly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly and dry it completely to ensure crispiness during cooking. Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to guarantee even cooking.
- Season the broccoli: In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if your model requires preheating to ensure optimal cooking temperature.
- Arrange broccoli in the air fryer: Place the broccoli in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding and to allow air circulation for crispiness.
- Air fry the broccoli: Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. The broccoli should be tender inside with crispy, golden edges when done.
- Add Parmesan cheese: During the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli to let it melt and add flavor.
- Finish and serve: Remove the broccoli from the air fryer, drizzle fresh lemon juice over it for brightness, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Dry the broccoli thoroughly before seasoning to help it crisp up during air frying.
- Cut florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent steaming instead of crisping.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes during seasoning.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your broccoli florets.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetables
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
