Description
This Easy Broccoli Air Fryer Recipe offers a fast, healthy, and flavorful side dish featuring fresh broccoli florets seasoned with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Crispy on the edges yet tender inside, it’s ready in just minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or complementing chicken, fish, or beef entrees.
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 using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to ensure uniform cooking.
- Season the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until the broccoli is evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: If your air fryer requires preheating, set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
- Arrange and Cook: Place the seasoned broccoli florets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. If needed, cook in batches. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to promote even crisping.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: In the last 1 to 2 minutes of air frying, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the broccoli to allow it to melt slightly and form a savory crust.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the broccoli from the air fryer and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Dry the broccoli thoroughly before seasoning to promote crispiness.
- Cut florets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning.
- Omit Parmesan cheese to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of broccoli florets for best results.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetables
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
