Air-Fryer Broccoli: Fresh, Quick, And Healthy

Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is to cook it in an air fryer, which can give it a crispy texture while retaining its tenderness. Air-frying broccoli is a quick and easy process that can be done with just a few simple ingredients, such as olive oil and basic seasonings. The cooking time may vary depending on the desired crispiness and the size of the florets, but it generally takes around 7 to 15 minutes at temperatures between 350°F and 400°F. This method is a convenient way to prepare broccoli as a side dish or add it to grain bowls or noodle bowls.

Broccoli preparation

Broccoli is a terrific side dish and a great source of nutrients. It is absolutely possible to cook fresh broccoli in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing and cooking broccoli in an air fryer:

Firstly, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh broccoli florets (one large head of broccoli)
• Olive oil (extra-virgin is recommended)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic (granules or minced)
• Chilli flakes or cayenne (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Wash the broccoli florets and pat them dry to remove any moisture. The drier the broccoli, the crispier the edges will be. Cut the broccoli into equal-sized florets, aiming for larger pieces rather than smaller ones, as they cook more evenly and have a better texture. If your broccoli has a long stalk attached, you can save it for another use, such as making broccoli rice.

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice (if using), and your chosen seasonings. Toss the ingredients together until the broccoli is completely coated. You can add other seasonings to suit your taste, such as soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or onion powder.

Cooking:

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, which can range from 350°F to 400°F, depending on your preference and the level of crispiness desired.

Transfer the seasoned broccoli to the air fryer basket, ensuring it is arranged in a single layer with a little space around each floret. This allows the air to flow around the broccoli and promotes even cooking and crispiness.

Cook the broccoli for 7 to 15 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness and your air fryer's settings. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure all sides cook evenly.

Once the broccoli is tender with crispy edges, it is ready to be served! You can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last minute of cooking for an extra indulgent touch.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air-fried broccoli as a side dish or add it to grain bowls, noodle bowls, or stir-fries.

Air fryer settings

The ideal air fryer settings for cooking fresh broccoli are a combination of temperature and time. The temperature should be set within the range of 350°F to 400°F, with the higher end yielding crispier results. The cooking time can vary from 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the desired texture and the size of the florets.

For a quick cook time of 6 minutes, set your air fryer to 400°F. This will give you tender broccoli with deliciously roasted flavors. To prevent smoking and promote even cooking, add a tablespoon of water to the air fryer pan before adding the broccoli. Cut the broccoli florets into very small, evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a nice roast on the edges.

If you prefer your broccoli softer and more steamed, a lower temperature of 350°F is recommended. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, tossing the broccoli halfway through to prevent scorching and ensure even cooking. For this setting, it is also recommended to use larger florets, as smaller ones may burn before the stalks become tender.

It is important to note that air fryer models differ, so you may need to experiment with the settings to find the perfect combination for your machine. Additionally, overcrowding the air fryer basket can cause the broccoli to steam instead of crisp up. Arrange the florets in a single layer with some space around each one, and work in batches if necessary.

With these air fryer settings and tips, you'll be able to cook delicious, healthy, and crispy fresh broccoli in no time!

Cooking time

The cooking time for fresh broccoli in an air fryer varies depending on the desired level of crispiness, the size of the florets, and the air fryer model.

For crispier broccoli, it is recommended to cut the florets into larger, equal-sized pieces. Smaller florets are more likely to burn, and uneven sizes may result in inconsistent cooking. It is also important to ensure that the broccoli is not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, as this will cause it to steam and soften rather than crisp up.

The cooking time for fresh broccoli florets in an air fryer generally ranges from 5 to 15 minutes. Some sources recommend cooking for 7 to 9 minutes at 390°F (200°C), while others suggest cooking for 8 to 10 minutes at 350°F, or 10 to 15 minutes at 390°F to 400°F. It is important to shake the basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Additionally, the cooking time may be influenced by the desired level of doneness. For al dente broccoli, a shorter cooking time of around 5 minutes may be preferred. However, if you prefer softer, more steamed broccoli, you may need to cook it for a longer period, closer to 12 to 15 minutes.

It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the broccoli while it is cooking and adjust the timing as needed, as different air fryer models may vary in terms of cooking time and temperature settings.

Seasoning

Olive oil is a key ingredient, as it helps to tenderise the broccoli during cooking and prevents it from burning. It is recommended to use extra virgin olive oil, and only a small amount is needed—just enough to lightly coat the broccoli florets. Other oils can also be used, such as avocado, canola, or sesame oil.

Salt and pepper are basic seasonings that work beautifully with broccoli. Sea salt or kosher salt can be used, along with black pepper, to create a simple and tasty flavour profile.

Garlic powder is another popular choice, as it coats the broccoli florets evenly and provides a savoury, umami flavour. Freshly minced garlic can also be used, but it tends to burn more easily in the air fryer. Onion powder is another option for adding flavour without the risk of burning.

Other seasonings can be added according to personal preference. Some ideas include cayenne pepper, ranch seasoning, lemon pepper, or sesame soy sauce. The broccoli can also be garnished with red pepper flakes, toasted sesame seeds, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavour boost.

The key to successful seasoning is to ensure that the broccoli florets are evenly coated. This can be done by mixing the florets with the chosen seasonings in a bowl prior to transferring them to the air fryer basket. This allows the seasonings to fully incorporate into all the nooks and crannies of the broccoli, resulting in a delicious and flavourful side dish.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer broccoli is an extremely versatile dish with plenty of tasty pairings. Here are some serving suggestions:

As a Side Dish

Air fryer broccoli can be served as a side dish to accompany a variety of main courses. Its crisp edges and savoury, salty flavour make it a delicious addition to any meal.

With Rice or Noodles

Broccoli pairs well with rice or noodle dishes, such as shrimp fettuccine Alfredo, or cilantro lime rice.

With Chicken

Oven-baked or air-fried chicken breast with broccoli is a classic combination. For extra flavour, try lemon chicken or Shake and Bake chicken.

With Seafood

Air fryer salmon and broccoli is a match made in heaven. For something different, try pairing the broccoli with shrimp scampi or Cajun shrimp.

With Pasta

Broccoli goes well with a variety of pasta dishes, including buttered noodles, Fettuccine Alfredo, Marry Me Chicken, and Louisiana Chicken pasta.

With a Sauce

For an extra punch of flavour, drizzle a sauce over the broccoli, such as gochujang, peanut sauce, or sesame ginger dressing.

With Tofu

For a vegetarian option, pair air fryer broccoli with crispy sesame tofu.

With Cheese

Add some freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking for a tasty, cheesy crust. Other cheese options include Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a nacho cheese sauce.

Seasonings

Experiment with different seasonings to elevate the flavour of your air fryer broccoli. Try paprika, rosemary, dill, parsley, cumin, red chilli flakes, Italian seasoning, or a premade seasoning mix like ranch or barbecue rub.

Lemon Garlic Broccoli

For a zesty twist, toss the broccoli with lemon juice, melted butter, and minced garlic.

Frozen Broccoli

While fresh broccoli is recommended for optimal crispness, you can also cook frozen broccoli in an air fryer. Simply add the frozen florets directly into the air fryer without thawing them first and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Frequently asked questions