Air-Fried Leeks: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Air fryer leeks are easy to make and can be used in soups, pastas, salads, bowls, or just enjoyed on their own as a side dish or snack. To cook leeks in an air fryer, you'll need to coat them in olive oil and seasonings, and then air fry them for around 6-10 minutes at 375F / 190C, shaking the basket after 4-5 minutes. You can adjust the amount of herbs and garlic powder to taste preference.

How to prepare leeks for air frying

To prepare leeks for air frying, start by chopping the dark green section off the leeks so that you're left with the light green and white sections. Then, dice the leeks into roughly similar-sized pieces. This will ensure an even cooking time. Next, add the chopped leeks to a mixing bowl and season them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other herbs and seasonings you like. Toss the leeks to coat them evenly in the toppings.

Now, you're ready to add the leeks to your air fryer basket. Tip the leeks into the basket in an even layer, leaving a little space between them. Set the air fryer to 375F/190C or 380F-390F, depending on your preference, and air fry for 6-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, pull out the basket and use a spatula to mix up the leeks. This will ensure even cooking.

Once the initial cooking time is up, shake the basket and check the leeks for 'doneness'. If they're not crispy enough for your liking, continue air frying in 2-3 minute intervals until they reach your desired level of crispiness.

The best temperature to air fry leeks

To air fry leeks, the best temperature is between 375F/190C and 390F. Set your air fryer to one of these temperatures and cook the leeks for 6-10 minutes, shaking the basket after 4-5 minutes. If you like your leeks crispier, you can cook them for longer, checking on them in 2-3 minute intervals.

When preparing the leeks, make sure to dice them into roughly similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. You can also add olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like to the leeks before cooking. Toss the leeks in the oil and seasonings to ensure they are evenly coated, then add them to the air fryer basket in an even layer with a little space between them.

Halfway through the cooking time, pull out the basket and use a spatula to mix up the leeks. This helps to ensure even cooking and prevents them from sticking to the basket. Once the cooking time is over, remove the air fryer basket and transfer the leeks to a serving bowl.

Air fryer leeks are a versatile side dish that can be used in soups, pastas, salads, bowls, or simply enjoyed on their own. They are easy to make and only require a few simple ingredients and seasonings to taste.

How long to air fry leeks for

Air fryers are a great way to cook leeks. To start, you'll want to dice your leeks into roughly similar-sized pieces to ensure an even cook. Then, toss them in olive oil and your desired seasonings. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs. Next, add the leeks to your air fryer basket in an even layer, with a little space between them.

Now, it's time to air fry! Set your air fryer to 375F/190C or 380F/390F and cook for 6-10 minutes. Halfway through, or after 4-5 minutes, shake the basket and check for 'doneness'. If your leeks are larger or you prefer them crispier, continue air frying in 2-3 minute intervals until they reach your desired texture.

How to season leeks for air frying

Seasoning leeks for air frying is a simple process. First, you'll need to chop the dark green section off the leeks, leaving only the light green and white sections. Then, dice the leeks into roughly similar-sized pieces. This will ensure an even cooking time. Next, add the diced leeks to a mixing bowl and season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder and herbs. Toss the leeks in the mixing bowl to ensure they are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.

Once the leeks are seasoned, add them to the air fryer basket. Be sure to arrange them in an even layer, with a little space between each piece. Set the air fryer to 375F/190C or 380F/390F, depending on your recipe, and air fry for 6-10 minutes, or until the leeks are cooked to your desired level of doneness. It's important to toss or shake the basket every few minutes to ensure even cooking. If you prefer your leeks extra crispy, you can air fry for longer in 2-3 minute intervals.

What to serve air fried leeks with

Air fryer leeks are a great side dish to serve with a variety of meals. You can serve them with a main course such as meat or fish, or as part of a salad or bowl. They also work well in soups and pastas.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, you could serve air fryer leeks as a side dish with a protein-rich main course such as grilled chicken or salmon. For a vegetarian option, you could pair the leeks with a lentil or quinoa salad.

For a heartier meal, you could also serve the leeks with a grain bowl. For example, you could cook some brown rice or farro and top it with roasted vegetables and a fried egg. The air fryer leeks would add a nice crispy texture to the bowl.

If you're serving the leeks as part of a soup or pasta dish, you might want to chop them into smaller pieces so they're easier to eat. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more herbs or garlic powder as desired.

Frequently asked questions