Air Fryer Frozen Veggies: Quick, Easy, And Healthy!

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook frozen vegetables without the prep work of fresh veggies. Frozen vegetables can be cooked in an air fryer without defrosting them first, and they will turn out crispy and browned. The cooking time depends on the type of vegetable and the power of the air fryer, but it usually takes between 10 and 20 minutes. To cook frozen veggies in an air fryer, first spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, then place the frozen veggies in the basket and spray them with olive oil. Add seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and shake the basket to mix. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, then shake the basket and air fry for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the veggies are crispy.

You don't need to defrost frozen vegetables before putting them in the air fryer

Different types of vegetables have different cooking times. Soft frozen veggies, such as broccoli, bell peppers, green beans, and corn, cook in the air fryer for 10 to 15 minutes. For soft veggies, you can also refer to the timings for specific vegetables: green beans take 4 minutes, broccoli takes 6-8 minutes, cauliflower takes 8-10 minutes, and Brussels sprouts take 14-16 minutes. Firmer veggies, such as butternut squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes, take 20 to 30 minutes.

To get the best results, preheat your air fryer before cooking. 5 minutes should be enough to get the small space up to temperature. Vegetables tend to cook at a temperature between 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit; use the same temperature for frozen as you would for fresh.

To get the most out of your seasoning, add it halfway through the cooking process. For example, if you're cooking cauliflower for 15 minutes, put the cauliflower into the preheated air fryer and cook for the first 8 minutes. Then take them out, toss with oil and seasonings, and return them to the air fryer for another 7 or 8 minutes. If you're cooking for longer than 15 minutes, you'll need to stir the veggies a couple of additional times, or roughly every 5 to 8 minutes.

To make your frozen veggies even tastier, you can add a little bit of olive oil for flavor and improved texture. You can also use a different type of oil, or swap it for oil spray or cooking spray. Then, add salt and pepper to taste, along with any other seasonings of your choice.

Cooking times vary depending on the type of frozen vegetable

Firmer veggies such as butternut squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes can take up to 20 to 30 minutes to cook, provided they haven't been cooked before freezing. Roasted sweet potato chunks with a sprinkle of cinnamon are a delicious treat.

Additionally, the cooking time depends on the size, quantity, and spacing of the vegetables in the air fryer. Smaller-sized pieces are recommended, spread into a single layer. Avoid overfilling the basket with a thick layer of vegetables to ensure proper airflow. This will give you a cooking time of about 10 to 11 minutes.

Oil and seasoning can be added to frozen vegetables before air frying

Oil can be added to frozen vegetables before air frying by spraying them with a light coating of olive oil or avocado oil. This will help the seasonings to stick to the vegetables. Alternatively, you can pour olive oil over the frozen vegetables and mix well to ensure the oil is evenly distributed.

Seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or mixed herbs can be added to frozen vegetables before air frying to enhance their flavour. It is recommended to season the vegetables after oiling so that the spices stick better.

It is important to note that different types of vegetables may require different types of seasonings. For example, green beans are delicious with just some sea salt flakes, while cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts benefit from additional spices.

Additionally, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer before adding the seasoned frozen vegetables. Cooking frozen vegetables in an air fryer yields delicious, crispy results without the need for any prep work or thawing.

Vegetables should be arranged in a single layer in the air fryer

When cooking frozen vegetables in an air fryer, it's important to arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. This allows the hot air to circulate better and reach all the vegetables, resulting in a more consistent texture and doneness.

Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving the best results:

• Prepare your frozen vegetables of choice. You can use a variety of frozen vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, green beans, or carrots.
• Lightly coat your vegetables with olive oil or avocado oil. This can be done by spraying or tossing the vegetables in a bowl. Oil helps with even cooking and prevents drying out.
• Add your preferred seasonings. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, Herbes de Provence, or Gremolata for extra flavor.
• Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating ensures consistent cooking results.
• Place the seasoned vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This step is crucial for even cooking and to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to sogginess.
• Cook the vegetables for the recommended time based on their type. Softer vegetables like broccoli, bell pepper, and green beans typically take 10 to 15 minutes, while firmer vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots can take up to 20-30 minutes.
• Midway through the cooking process, consider removing the basket and giving it a shake or toss to ensure the vegetables cook evenly on all sides.
• Once the timer goes off, check the vegetables for doneness. If they need more time, return them to the air fryer in a single layer and cook in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid burning.
• When the vegetables are crispy and cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. Air-fried vegetables are best enjoyed fresh and crispy!

By arranging the vegetables in a single layer, you promote even cooking and browning, resulting in a delicious and healthy side dish or snack.

Preheat the air fryer before adding vegetables

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process, and it's no different when you're preparing vegetables. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to ensure you get the best results when air-frying frozen veggies.

Firstly, preheating your air fryer ensures a more even cook. Giving your air fryer a few minutes to reach the desired temperature creates a consistent cooking environment. This is especially important when cooking frozen vegetables, as they tend to release moisture during the cooking process. By preheating, you reduce the chances of soggy veggies and promote that desirable crispy exterior. Aim for around 5 minutes of preheating at a temperature between 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Secondly, while some air fryer models may not have a preheat function, it's still beneficial to let the air fryer run for a few minutes before adding your veggies. This helps to ensure that the heating element and fan are working at full capacity before the food goes in. If your air fryer has a preheat function, use it; if not, simply turn it on and let it run for a few minutes before adding your ingredients.

Additionally, when preparing your frozen veggies for the air fryer, ensure they are not thawed. Frozen vegetables should go straight from the freezer into the air fryer. Thawed veggies will release more moisture, making them soggy and less crispy. Keep your veggies frozen until you're ready to cook them.

Finally, for optimal results, arrange your veggies in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate between the pieces, drying them out more effectively and creating that desirable crisp texture. If your air fryer has limited space, try not to overcrowd the basket, and consider cooking in batches if necessary.

By following these instructions, you'll be able to enjoy delicious, crispy frozen veggies from your air fryer every time!

Frequently asked questions