Air-Fryer Roasted Broccoli: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryer broccoli is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook broccoli that your whole family will love. With a cook time of just 6 to 15 minutes, this recipe is a game-changer for getting your fill of nutrients while enjoying delicious caramelized, charred edges and a crispy texture.

Choosing and preparing the broccoli

Choosing the right broccoli is key to making delicious roasted broccoli in an air fryer. When buying broccoli, always look for bright green florets that are firm and fresh. The base of the stem should be firm and green, not soft and yellow. Broccoli is best used within 2-3 days of purchase as it starts to develop a strange smell after a few days.

When preparing the broccoli, start by cutting the stem and then cut it into medium-sized florets. Make sure the florets are of a similar size so that they cook evenly. Give the florets a good wash under running water or by dipping them in lukewarm water for about 10 minutes. Drain the florets well in a colander for crispy broccoli.

You can also leave some stems intact for added fibre. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the broccoli in batches.

Selecting the right oil

The type of oil you use for air-frying broccoli can have a significant impact on the taste and texture of the final dish. Here are some tips for selecting the right oil:

Choose oils with a high smoke point

When selecting an oil for air frying, it is essential to consider its smoke point. The smoke point refers to the temperature at which an oil begins to burn and produce smoke. Since air frying involves high temperatures, choosing an oil with a high smoke point is crucial to prevent it from smoking and imparting a burnt taste to your broccoli. Oils with high smoke points include avocado oil, extra virgin olive oil, and grapeseed oil.

Consider the flavour

Different oils have distinct flavours that can enhance your dish. For example, extra virgin olive oil has a fruity and slightly bitter taste, while avocado oil has a subtle buttery flavour. Choose an oil that complements the other ingredients in your recipe and enhances the overall flavour profile.

Opt for healthy options

Air frying is often considered a healthier alternative to deep frying, and choosing the right oil can further boost the nutritional value of your dish. Avocado oil, for instance, is rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, while olive oil contains polyphenols and has anti-inflammatory properties. These healthier oils can help improve heart health and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Amount of oil

When air frying broccoli, a little oil goes a long way. You only need enough to lightly coat the broccoli florets. Typically, two tablespoons of oil are sufficient for air frying broccoli, ensuring a crispy texture without making it greasy.

Storing oils

It is important to store oils properly to maintain their freshness and quality. Most oils should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Some oils, such as extra virgin olive oil, are best stored in dark glass bottles, as exposure to light can cause oxidation and rancidity. Always check the label for specific storage instructions.

Choosing your seasonings

The seasonings you choose for your roasted broccoli in an air fryer can make or break the dish. While it's tempting to go overboard with a variety of spices, it's important to remember that less is more. You don't want to overwhelm the natural flavour of the broccoli. Here are some tips and suggestions for choosing the right seasonings:

Keep it simple: A little salt and pepper can go a long way. Seasoning your broccoli with just salt and pepper will enhance its natural flavour without overpowering it.

Garlic powder: Many recipes recommend using garlic powder instead of fresh garlic. This is because fresh garlic tends to burn easily in the air fryer, leaving a bitter taste. Garlic powder adds a savoury note to your broccoli without the risk of burning.

Lemon juice: A dash of lemon juice can add a bright, acidic touch to your broccoli. It pairs well with the olive oil and garlic, creating a well-rounded flavour profile.

Other seasonings: If you want to get creative, you can experiment with other seasonings like onion powder, red pepper flakes, curry powder, soy sauce, honey, or parmesan cheese. Just be mindful of the quantities and add a little at a time to taste.

Don't overdo it: Remember, the key is not to over-season your broccoli. You want the natural flavour of the vegetable to shine through. Start with a small amount of each seasoning and taste as you go, adding more if needed.

By choosing your seasonings wisely and using them in moderation, you can elevate the flavour of your roasted broccoli and make it a delicious and healthy side dish that everyone will enjoy.

Cooking the broccoli

First, prepare your broccoli by washing and drying the florets, then cutting them into evenly-sized pieces. You can also leave some of the stems intact for added fibre.

Next, season your broccoli. Toss the florets in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of your choice. You can include garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Be careful not to use too much seasoning—a little goes a long way, and you don't want to overwhelm the natural flavour of the broccoli.

Now you're ready to cook your broccoli. Preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 400°F. Then, add the seasoned broccoli to the basket in a single layer. If your air fryer basket is not big enough, cook the broccoli in batches. Cook for 8 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking. The broccoli should be crispy and slightly charred around the edges.

Once the broccoli is cooked, you can sprinkle on some parmesan cheese, minced onion, minced garlic, or everything bagel seasoning blend.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer broccoli is a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Here are some serving suggestions:

Grains and Pasta

Air fryer broccoli pairs well with whole grains such as brown rice or quinoa. It can also be served with risotto or pasta dishes, such as creamy shrimp fettuccine.

Proteins

This dish also complements proteins like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, teriyaki beef, or salmon. For a lighter option, pair it with grilled salmon and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Potatoes

You can also serve air fryer broccoli with roasted potatoes, including garlic herb roasted potatoes, sweet potato fries, or roasted sweet potatoes.

Appetizers and Dips

As an appetizer, air fryer broccoli can be served on its own or with dipping sauces like Homemade Chick-Fil-A sauce or Chipotle mayo.

Other Vegetables

Air fryer broccoli can be mixed with other air-fried vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or cauliflower, for a more varied vegetable dish.

Spices and Seasonings

For added flavour, you can sprinkle parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest and juice over the broccoli.

Sauces

You can also toss the broccoli in a sauce, such as buffalo or honey mustard, for a spicy or sweet twist.

Frequently asked questions