Roasting Vegetables In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a great way to cook vegetables. They are easy to use, quick, and produce a similar result to roasting, but with a crispier texture. You can cook almost any vegetable in an air fryer, from tender vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, to firmer ones like potatoes, carrots, and beets. The cooking time will depend on the type of vegetable, with softer vegetables taking less time than firmer ones. For example, broccoli and cauliflower will only need about 10 minutes, while potatoes and sweet potatoes can take up to 30 minutes. You can also cook frozen vegetables in an air fryer, but be sure to give them a little extra time to thaw.

How to roast different vegetables in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to cook vegetables, giving them a crispy texture similar to roasting but in less time. You can cook almost any vegetable in an air fryer, and it's an easy and healthy way to prepare a delicious side dish.

Preparing the vegetables

First, wash and peel your chosen vegetables, if desired, and pat them dry. Cut them into 1-inch/2cm chunks or slices. You can also cut them into wedges, fries, or any shape you prefer, as long as they are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

Seasoning

You can season your vegetables with just salt and pepper to let their flavour shine, or add extra seasonings for more flavour. Try garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or a mix of your favourite herbs and spices. Use around two teaspoons of seasoning per pound/500g of veggies. You can also add a small amount of oil to prevent burning and add a roasted taste. Toss the vegetables in a large bowl with the oil and seasoning to coat them well.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 360-400°F/180°C. Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer if possible, as this will help them cook evenly and give them a nice browned finish. If you are cooking a mix of firm and tender vegetables, cook the firm vegetables first. For example, root vegetables, potatoes, and winter squash will take longer to cook than softer vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

Cook tender vegetables for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Firm vegetables will take longer, around 20-30 minutes, and you should shake the basket a few times during cooking to redistribute the veggies and ensure even cooking.

Serving

Air fryer roasted vegetables are a versatile side dish. You can serve them as they are, or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, crumbled feta or goat cheese, or a squeeze of lemon or lime juice. They are also great in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or tossed with pasta.

The benefits of roasting vegetables in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to cook vegetables, offering a range of benefits over traditional roasting in an oven. Here are some of the advantages of using an air fryer for roasting vegetables:

Quick and Easy

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook vegetables, with a much faster cooking time compared to traditional ovens. They are also easy to use, requiring little to no oil and minimal preparation. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and healthy side dish for your meal.

Healthy and Delicious

Air fryers use little to no oil, resulting in vegetables that are lower in fat and calories than those pan-fried or roasted in an oven. The hot air produced by the air fryer gives vegetables a crispy texture similar to roasting, but with less oil. This makes air-fried vegetables a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.

Versatile and Customizable

Air fryers can be used to cook a wide variety of vegetables, from tender zucchini and bell peppers to firm root vegetables like potatoes and carrots. You can also experiment with different seasonings and oils to find your perfect flavor combination. Whether you like your vegetables simply seasoned with salt and pepper or tossed in garlic powder and olive oil, air frying brings out the flavor and creates a delicious side dish.

Efficient and Convenient

Air fryers are more energy-efficient than traditional ovens, as they use a concentrated heat source and a fan to circulate hot air around the food. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps to keep your kitchen cooler, especially during the hot summer months. Additionally, the compact size of air fryers means they take up less counter space and are easier to store than bulky ovens.

Easy Cleanup

Air fryers also offer the benefit of easy cleanup. With no pots or pans to scrub, you can simply wipe down the air fryer basket and enjoy your meal without facing a pile of dishes. This makes air fryers a convenient choice for those who want to spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying their food.

How to prepare vegetables for roasting in an air fryer

Preparing vegetables for roasting in an air fryer is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

First, select your vegetables. You can use any vegetables you like, but remember that some vegetables will take longer to cook than others. For example, softer, more tender vegetables like broccoli will take less time than firm vegetables like potatoes. If you are using a combination of tender and firm vegetables, you will need to add the firm vegetables to the air fryer first.

Next, wash and peel your vegetables, if desired. Then, cut them into equal-sized pieces, around 1-inch or 2cm thick. You can cut them into any shape you prefer, such as fries, cubes, wedges, or slices.

Once your vegetables are prepared, preheat your air fryer to 360°F/180°C. If you are using tender and firm vegetables, it is best to season them separately. Mix your chosen oil, salt, and seasonings in a large bowl, and then add the vegetables, tossing to coat them evenly. You can use any type of cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as light olive oil, vegetable oil, corn oil, or avocado oil. For seasoning, you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or any other spices you like.

Now you are ready to start roasting! Place the firm vegetables in the air fryer basket and roast for 5 minutes. Then, add the tender vegetables and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to redistribute the vegetables and ensure even cooking. Your vegetables are ready when they are tender and golden brown with crispy edges.

Finally, serve your roasted vegetables with your favourite herbs, spices, or cheese. Enjoy!

The best oils to use for roasting vegetables in an air fryer

Yes, you can roast vegetables in an air fryer. Air fryers are mini convection ovens that fry foods with little to no oil, less fat, and fewer calories. A heating element and fan bathe the food in hot air to produce a crispy finish.

Now, when it comes to the best oils to use for roasting vegetables in an air fryer, here are some recommendations and tips:

Types of Oil

• Olive oil: Light olive oil or extra virgin olive oil can be used. Light olive oil has a high smoke point, reducing the chance of your air fryer smoking. Extra virgin olive oil helps the vegetables brown and soften.
• Avocado oil: This oil is recommended by some due to its high smoke point.
• Vegetable oil: A standard option that can be used.
• Corn oil: Another option with a high smoke point.

Amount of Oil

• You only need a small amount of oil when using an air fryer. About two teaspoons of oil per pound of vegetables is usually sufficient.
• An oil spray or mister can be used to reduce the amount of oil and ensure even distribution.

Other Options

• If you are on a very low-fat diet, you can try roasting vegetables without oil. However, this may result in limp vegetables that lack the desired crispness.
• Some alternatives to oil include using a foil pouch with water, marinading vegetables in lemon juice or soy sauce, or using cooking spray.

How to season vegetables for roasting in an air fryer

Roasting vegetables in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to cook veggies, and they come out perfectly tender and crispy. You can use any combination of vegetables, but depending on their type, you may need to adjust cooking times and temperatures.

Seasoning Your Vegetables

When it comes to seasoning, you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with various herbs and spices. Here are some ideas for seasoning your vegetables before roasting them in the air fryer:

• Italian seasoning: This blend typically includes basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme, and pairs well with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
• Herbes de Provence: A blend of herbs typical of the Provence region in France, including basil, thyme, and lavender.
• Gremolata: A mixture of 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, and 2 cloves of minced garlic.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: For a savoury boost, use these in combination or on their own.
• Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch for a hint of spice.
• Lemon juice: A bright, tangy addition to your seasoning blend.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle on top of your veggies for added flavour and crispness.

Preparing Your Vegetables

Before roasting, wash and dry your vegetables. Cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch/2cm thick. This will ensure even cooking. You can experiment with different shapes, such as fries, cubes, wedges, or slices.

Cooking Your Vegetables

For tender vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and asparagus, preheat your air fryer to 360-375°F (180-190°C). Drizzle your veggies with olive oil, avocado oil, or another high smoke point oil, and add your desired seasonings. Toss to coat evenly, then arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring or shaking the basket halfway through, until your vegetables are tender and crispy.

For firm vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets, follow the same preparation steps but increase the cooking time to 20-30 minutes. Remember to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning.

Final Thoughts

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and seasoning combinations to find your favourites. You can also try adding some citrus juice, such as lemon or lime, for a refreshing flavour, or finish your roasted veggies with a sprinkle of cheese or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions