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Air Fryer Broccoli


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Air fryer broccoli turns fresh broccoli into a quick, flavorful side dish with tender centers and lightly browned, crispy edges. Simple garlic seasoning and optional fresh lemon make it versatile enough for almost any meal.


Ingredients

1 head broccoli (about 1¼ pounds / 562 g)

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Lemon wedges for serving, optional


Instructions

  1. Cut the broccoli into large florets, approximately 1 inch wide and 2 inches long, keeping the pieces relatively similar in size for even cooking.
  2. Place the broccoli in a large bowl. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then toss thoroughly until the florets are evenly coated.
  3. Arrange the seasoned broccoli in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket, leaving room around the florets for hot air to circulate.
  4. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, tossing or shaking the basket about halfway through cooking.
  5. Check that the broccoli is tender with lightly browned, crisp edges. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes if a darker or crispier texture is desired.
  6. Taste and adjust the salt or black pepper as needed. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Use fresh broccoli with firm, tightly packed florets for the best crisp edges and tender centers.

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as good air circulation helps the broccoli become crisp.

Air fryer models vary, so begin checking the broccoli around the 10-minute mark.

For Parmesan broccoli, add freshly grated Parmesan during the final couple of minutes or immediately after cooking.

For a spicy variation, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chili powder with the seasonings.

For lemon garlic broccoli, finish the cooked broccoli with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.

For smoky broccoli, add a small amount of smoked paprika to the seasoning mixture.

For an Italian-inspired variation, add Italian seasoning and finish with Parmesan and extra black pepper.

Frozen broccoli can be used, but it will generally have a softer texture because it releases more moisture while cooking.

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to help restore their crisp texture.

  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 115 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg