This Air-Fryer Broccoli is lightly roasted, crisp, and tender every time.
Broccoli is one of those vegetables (and foods, in general) for which taste goes through the roof when you roast it. I don’t understand the science of it all, but I do understand my taste buds do a somersault of joy whenever I take a bite into a perfectly roasted floret.
My kids were easily convinced of the “science,” too, which came as a huge relief to me. As any parent can attest, getting your kids to eat well sometimes requires a herculean effort. Luckily, this recipe does all the heavy lifting. There are no mushy, bitter, or stinky results here. Broccoli’s reputation has been saved.
Sure, some of the credit goes to the broccoli, but most of it goes to the air fryer. It manages to roast the vegetable perfectly, bringing out its natural earthy taste without burning it. This is why I no longer use my traditional oven to roast my vegetables. Broccoli that retains its nutrients, tastes great, and is done in a fraction of the time? Never mind just my taste buds—that has my entire body doing somersaults of joy!
Is Air-Fryer Broccoli Healthy?
You better believe it’s healthy! Broccoli alone is great for you, providing your body with fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. This recipe also calls for a minimal amount of olive oil, which contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats plus vitamin E. If you choose to spritz your broccoli florets with some fresh-squeezed lemon juice at the end, you’ll be giving yourself another dose of vitamin C and other antioxidants.
This recipe is also suitable for vegetarian, gluten-free, low-carb, and keto diets. You can make it vegan by omitting the Parmesan or using a plant-based Parm alternative.
Simple Seasonings Are All You Need
When it comes to broccoli (or other veggies with a lackluster reputation), you may be inclined to drown the dish with as many seasonings and spices as you can throw at it. But it’s time to stop trying to mask the natural flavor of broccoli and instead let it shine!
A little olive oil, some garlic and onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper are all it takes to bring out the good qualities of broccoli: a slightly vegetal, earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. That’s why I also like dressing the cooked florets up with a little Parmesan cheese and a spritz of fresh lemon juice; they elevate the sweet and umami notes of the dish perfectly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Let the broccoli cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. You can also store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. You can reheat in the air fryer, microwave, or oven.
Serving Suggestions
A healthy side deserves a healthy entrée, so look to recipes such as this Lemon-Pepper Chicken or Asian Salmon With Soy And Ginger. If you just want toppings to bring out the flavor of your broccoli, you have lots to choose from. I mention Parmesan cheese here, but you can crumble some feta over the broccoli, too. You can also serve a dip alongside it. Garlic-Parmesan, lemon-herb, peppercorn ranch, or spicy Sriracha Mayo will taste great. Want a change in texture? Add some crunchiness in the form of bacon bits, roasted almonds or pecans, or toasted breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh broccoli florets cut into small, even pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- fresh lemon slices optional garnish
- freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned broccoli in the air fryer basket, spreading it out evenly. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 minutes.
- Serve immediately, with optional squeeze of fresh lemon juice or grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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