Description
Crispy, golden air-fried broccoli florets seasoned with garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese. This easy and healthy side dish is quick to prepare and offers delicious roasted edges with a hint of lemon juice, perfect for a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 500 g broccoli florets
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (about 392°F) and let it preheat for 3 minutes to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for roasting the broccoli evenly.
- Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to promote even cooking and crispy edges throughout.
- Toss the broccoli with seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat all pieces thoroughly.
- Arrange in air fryer basket: Place the seasoned broccoli in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate properly and achieve crispiness.
- Air fry the broccoli: Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure every floret is evenly roasted and crisped.
- Add Parmesan cheese: During the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over the broccoli to melt slightly and add a savory, cheesy layer.
- Finish with lemon juice and serve: Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the basket, drizzle with fresh lemon juice for brightness, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- Smaller broccoli florets will result in crispier texture due to increased surface area exposure.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain even crisping.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- To make this recipe vegan, omit the Parmesan or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired
