Air-Frying Broccoli And Cauliflower: Is It Possible?

Broccoli and cauliflower are two vegetables that can be cooked in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy option for a healthy side or a crispy, low-carb snack. The air fryer cooks them up in minutes, and they can be cooked from frozen. For best results, make sure the vegetables are dry before cooking, and cook them in a single layer, shaking the basket halfway through.

How to prepare broccoli and cauliflower for air frying

Yes, you can cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer. Here's how to prepare them:

First, cut the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables, but if you're using frozen, make sure to cook them directly from frozen as they may cook a little faster. Pre-washed bags of broccoli and cauliflower will save you time and ensure your veggies are extra crispy.

Next, toss the veggies in oil and seasonings. You can lightly season them with garlic, or try other seasonings of your choice. Just make sure the broccoli and cauliflower pieces are dry before you put them in the air fryer, as any moisture will cause them to steam instead of getting crispy.

Now you're ready to cook! Place the veggies in a single layer in the air fryer basket and shake it halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The exact cooking time will depend on your air fryer model, but it usually takes around 15 minutes at 380°F. Check the broccoli and cauliflower with a fork to see if they're tender enough for your liking. If needed, cook in batches and then return them to the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Enjoy your crispy, air-fried broccoli and cauliflower! They make a perfect side dish or a healthy snack. You can even freeze any leftovers for future meals.

The best temperature and cooking time

Broccoli and cauliflower can be cooked in an air fryer at 380°F for 15 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn. You can check the broccoli and cauliflower by poking them with a fork to see how tender they are. If you want to get them crispy, make sure the vegetables are dry before you put them in the air fryer, as any amount of water or moisture will steam them. You can also cook frozen broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer, but they might cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them.

How to store leftover broccoli and cauliflower

Yes, you can cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer. To get the best results, cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss them in oil and seasonings, and cook in a single layer, shaking the basket halfway through. Make sure the broccoli and cauliflower are dry before you cook them, as any moisture will cause them to steam instead of crisping up.

Leftover cooked broccoli and cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To freeze leftover broccoli and cauliflower, spread them out on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for 1-2 hours until frozen, then transfer to a Zip Top bag.

What to serve with air-fried broccoli and cauliflower

Yes, you can cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer. But what should you serve with it?

Air-fried broccoli and cauliflower make a great side to any protein. You could serve them with chicken, fish, or tofu. If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, a tasty cheese dip would be a perfect pairing.

If you're looking for a lighter option, these veggies also go well with salads or as a side to noodles or rice. For an extra kick of flavour, try garnishing with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

And don't forget, if you have any leftovers, you can always freeze them for future recipes!

The best air fryer to use

Yes, you can cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer. It takes just 15 minutes at 380°F to cook broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer, and you’ll get even better results than roasting. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the model of air fryer, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Some recommended air fryers include the Ninja Foodie Grill and Air Fryer, which can cook frozen broccoli and cauliflower directly from frozen. Another option is to preheat an air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and place the broccoli florets in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Cook in the microwave at full power for 3 minutes, then drain any accumulated liquid before air frying.

When cooking broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer, cut the veggies into bite-sized pieces and toss them in oil and seasonings. For best results, be sure the pieces are dry before air frying, as any moisture will steam them instead of making them crispy. Cook in a single layer, shaking the basket halfway through. If needed, cook in batches and then return them to the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Frequently asked questions