Reheating Frozen Vegetables: Air Fryer Tips And Tricks

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook frozen vegetables, and they can be ready in less than 30 minutes. It is not necessary to thaw frozen vegetables before air frying, and doing so may even make them soggy. To cook frozen vegetables in an air fryer, first, preheat the air fryer, then coat the vegetables in oil and seasoning. Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

How long to reheat frozen vegetables in an air fryer

Reheating frozen vegetables in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy side dish. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to reheat frozen vegetables to perfection:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture for your vegetables. Set the temperature to between 375°F and 400°F (or 190°C to 200°C). Allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating is an important step as it helps to ensure your vegetables cook evenly and achieve that desirable crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the air fryer is preheating, take your frozen vegetables and place them in a large bowl. You can use any combination of frozen vegetables you like, such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, green beans, or a mixed blend. Drizzle a light coating of olive oil or avocado oil over the vegetables. You can also use a small amount of vegetable broth if you prefer an oil-free option. The oil or broth helps the seasonings stick to the vegetables and promotes even cooking and crisping.

Next, add your chosen seasonings to the bowl of vegetables. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, or any other spices you like. Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Arrange the Vegetables in the Air Fryer Basket

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with a parchment paper liner to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned vegetables inside, ensuring they are in a single layer with enough space around them for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping.

Step 4: Air Fry the Vegetables

Once your vegetables are in the air fryer, set the temperature to between 375°F and 400°F, and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, shake or stir the basket to ensure even cooking and to prevent sogginess. Depending on your desired level of crispiness, you may want to add an additional 2-4 minutes of cooking time.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your vegetables are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the air fryer and give them a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and serve immediately. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra flavor boost.

Tips for Success:

• Do not thaw the frozen vegetables before air frying. Cooking them straight from frozen helps maintain their texture and ensures they crisp up nicely.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent steaming and promote even cooking.
• Shake or stir the vegetables halfway through the cooking process to ensure even crisping and browning.
• Be generous with your seasonings—frozen vegetables can handle a good amount of flavor.

Best oil for reheating frozen vegetables in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat frozen vegetables in an air fryer. In fact, it is one of the best ways to cook frozen vegetables, as it is quick and easy, and you don't have to defrost the vegetables first.

When reheating frozen vegetables in an air fryer, it is recommended to use a light coating of oil with a high smoke point. This will help to crisp up the vegetables and enhance their flavour. Here are some of the best oils to use:

• Avocado oil—This oil has a high smoke point and will help the seasonings stick to the vegetables, giving them a crispy texture.
• Olive oil—This is a good alternative to avocado oil and will also help with crisping and caramelising the vegetables.
• Canola oil—Another oil with a high smoke point that can be used for a light coating.

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C).
• Lightly coat the frozen vegetables in oil.
• Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 3–5 minutes.
• Shake the basket and drain any excess water.
• Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or nutritional yeast.
• Air fry for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked to your liking.

Best air fryer temperature for reheating frozen vegetables

Yes, you can reheat frozen vegetables in an air fryer. The air fryer is a great way to cook frozen vegetables quickly and easily, and it can also be used to reheat them.

To reheat frozen vegetables in an air fryer, follow these steps:

• Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. The best temperature for reheating frozen vegetables is between 350°F to 400°F (180°C to 200°C). A higher temperature will help to achieve a crispy texture.
• Place the frozen vegetables directly into the air fryer basket. There is no need to thaw them first as this can make them soggy.
• Lightly coat the vegetables with oil, such as avocado or canola oil, to help them crisp up and enhance their flavor.
• Season the vegetables with your favorite herbs and spices. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and mixed herbs are great options.
• Air fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes.
• Shake the basket or toss the vegetables to ensure even cooking.
• Drain any excess water from the basket.
• Air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and crispy.

By following these steps, you can enjoy delicious and crispy reheated frozen vegetables from your air fryer.

Can you reheat frozen vegetables in an air fryer without making them soggy?

Yes, you can reheat frozen vegetables in an air fryer without making them soggy! Here are some tips to achieve crispy, delicious results:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to a high temperature, typically between 375°F and 400°F (190°C to 204°C). Preheating helps the vegetables cook more evenly and achieve a crispier texture.
• Avoid using a liner: Placing a liner or parchment paper at the bottom of the air fryer basket can trap moisture and result in soggy vegetables. Instead, spray the basket with a non-stick cooking spray or avocado/olive oil.
• Don't overcrowd the basket: Arrange the frozen vegetables in a single layer, leaving space between them for proper air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and cause the vegetables to steam instead of crisp up.
• Shake or stir halfway: Midway through the cooking process, shake or stir the basket to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess. Drain any excess water that has accumulated in the basket.
• Lightly coat with oil: Before adding your seasonings, lightly coat the frozen vegetables with a small amount of oil, such as avocado or olive oil. This will promote crisping and help the seasonings stick better.
• Season generously: Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or nutritional yeast can enhance the flavour of your vegetables. Add your preferred seasonings generously after coating the vegetables with oil.
• Don't thaw the vegetables: Cooking frozen vegetables straight from the freezer helps achieve a better texture. When vegetables start to thaw, they tend to release moisture and become soggy.
• Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on your vegetables towards the end of the cooking process, as different air fryer models cook at different speeds. Adjust the cooking time as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious, crispy reheated frozen vegetables from your air fryer!

Best vegetables to reheat in an air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to reheat vegetables without losing their texture or flavour. They are a healthier option than deep-frying and can be quicker than roasting.

Most vegetables can be reheated in an air fryer, but root vegetables are a good option as they retain their crunch. Some suggestions include:

• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Green beans
• Brussels sprouts
• Cauliflower
• Butternut squash
• Zucchini
• Asparagus

How to Reheat Vegetables in an Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to around 350-400°F.
• Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with space around them to cook evenly.
• Lightly spray or toss the vegetables in oil. Avocado, olive or canola oil are good choices as they have a high smoke point.
• Season the vegetables. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and mixed herbs are all great options.
• Air fry for 3-5 minutes, then shake the basket and drain any excess water.
• Air fry for an additional 3-7 minutes, depending on the vegetable and your desired texture.

Tips:

• There is no need to thaw frozen vegetables before placing them in the air fryer. Cooking from frozen helps to achieve a better texture.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This can lead to uneven cooking and cause the vegetables to steam instead of crisp.
• Shake or toss the vegetables halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking and crispness.
• For roasted vegetables, a light drizzle of olive oil can help to retain their crunch and flavour.

Frequently asked questions