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

Air fryers are a great way to cook frozen vegetables. It is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook veggies, which come out less soggy and more crispy. The cooking time depends on the type of vegetable, the quantity, and the size of the air fryer. It is also important to note that the vegetables should not be defrosted before cooking and that they should be cooked in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

Choosing your vegetables

The great thing about air frying frozen vegetables is that you can use any type of frozen vegetables. You can use a bag of mixed frozen vegetables or just one type, such as:

• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Green beans
• Brussels sprouts
• Carrots
• Okra
• Sweet potatoes
• Edamame beans
• Mushrooms
• Bell pepper
• Butternut squash
• Peas

You can also add in onions and mushrooms to your Brussels sprouts to make a full meal.

The cooking time will vary depending on the type of vegetable and how crispy you like them. For example, green beans will only need a few minutes, whereas larger vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower will need 6-10 minutes.

Using oil

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Oil

• Place the desired amount of frozen vegetables in a small bowl. You can use any type of frozen vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, green beans, or mixed vegetables.
• Pour the oil over the frozen vegetables. Make sure to use enough oil to coat the vegetables evenly. You can also use an oil spray for easier application and more even distribution.
• Add your preferred seasonings to the vegetables. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or any other spices you like.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 375°F and 400°F (190°C to 204°C). The ideal temperature may vary slightly depending on the model of your air fryer and the type of vegetable.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

• Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket. Try to arrange them in a single layer, or with only a slight overlap, to ensure even cooking.
• Cook the vegetables for 5 minutes, then toss or shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
• Continue cooking for an additional 4 to 9 minutes, depending on the vegetable and your desired level of doneness. Check the vegetables regularly during this time to prevent overcooking or burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the vegetables from the air fryer basket and serve immediately.

Adding seasoning

• Before adding your frozen vegetables to the air fryer, toss them with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the vegetables and improve their texture. You can also use other types of oil or cooking spray.
• Seasonings can be added before or halfway through cooking. If you want to maximise flavour, it is recommended to season halfway through.
• Basic seasonings include salt and pepper, which can be used alone or as a base for other seasonings.
• For green beans, simply adding sea salt flakes can be enough to enhance their flavour.
• Vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts benefit from additional spices. You can use pantry staples like garlic powder and onion powder, or try something different like Sriracha sauce, hot honey, or Za'atar.
• Parmesan cheese can be added at the end of cooking for an extra boost of flavour. Other cheese options can also be used.
• If you want to get creative, try experimenting with different dried or fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• For a spicy kick, add some red chilli flakes to your vegetables.
• Nutritional yeast is a great option for a buttery, nutty flavour and adds a little protein to your dish.
• If you're making a specific dish, match your seasonings with the flavours of the rest of your meal.

Air frying

How to Air Fry Frozen Vegetables:

Firstly, you do not need to defrost the vegetables before air frying. Place the frozen vegetables directly into the basket of the air fryer. You can use any type of frozen vegetables, including broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, Brussel sprouts, carrots, and zucchini. Try to arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking, but it is fine if they are not.

Next, drizzle or spray the vegetables with olive oil. You can also use avocado oil or another neutral-flavoured cooking oil. Make sure the oil is evenly distributed over the vegetables.

Then, season the vegetables with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or other spices and seasonings of your choice. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated in oil and seasoning.

Preheat your air fryer to between 390-400°F. Place the basket into the air fryer and cook for 5 minutes. Then, shake the basket and, if there is any excess water, drain it from the bottom of the basket. Air fry for another 5-10 minutes, depending on how crispy you want the vegetables to be.

Tips:

• If you want to add Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the vegetables and air fry for an additional minute.
• To get the best results, preheat your air fryer.
• Different models of air fryers will cook at different speeds, so check the vegetables regularly to ensure they do not burn.
• To ensure the vegetables are cooked, use a thermometer to check that they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C).

Serving suggestions

Air fryer frozen vegetables make a great side dish. You can pair them with fiber-filled carbohydrates and lean protein for a balanced meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Lemon chicken and rice
• Squash sausage orzo
• Hamburger helper lasagna
• Baked chicken breast and crispy sweet potato wedges
• Chicken potato bake
• Cheese tortellini
• Spicy slow cooker Thai peanut chicken

You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast on top of the vegetables for extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions