Air fryer broccolini: 5 ways to enjoy this crispy delight

Name: Air fryer broccolini: 5 ways to enjoy this crispy delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bunch broccolini; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite quick side dish: air fryer broccolini! Seriously, this recipe offers a burst of flavor and vibrant color that brightens up any meal. In just 20 minutes, you can transform a simple bunch of broccolini into a deliciously crispy delight that’s not only tasty but packs a nutritious punch too. I love how the air fryer brings out those earthy flavors while keeping the veggies tender and slightly crispy—just the way I like them! Plus, broccolini is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition to any dinner plate. So, whether you’re having a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this air fryer broccolini is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Broccolini

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful air fryer broccolini:

1 bunch broccolini: Look for fresh, vibrant green broccolini with firm stalks. Make sure to wash it thoroughly and trim any tough ends before cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil works best for its rich flavor. This helps in achieving that crispy texture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely garlicky kick without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to adjust to your taste!
Salt to taste: A sprinkle of salt enhances all the flavors, but remember, you can always add more later if you prefer.
Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper gives a nice bit of heat. Adjust based on your preference for spiciness.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to start air frying your way to a delicious side dish!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Broccolini

Getting your air fryer broccolini ready is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish in no time. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up this tasty veggie again and again!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Wash and Trim the Broccolini: Start by giving your broccolini a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt. Once it’s clean, trim off the tough ends. I like to cut about an inch off the bottom—this helps it cook evenly and stay tender.
Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the broccolini with the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to toss everything together until the broccolini is well coated. This is where the magic happens! Make sure every piece is covered for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer is essential for even cooking. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This helps to achieve that perfect crispy texture!
Air Fry the Broccolini: Place the seasoned broccolini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd it; if you have a lot, consider cooking it in batches. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want it to be tender yet slightly crispy on the edges.
Serve Immediately: Once your broccolini is done, take it out and serve it right away. I love to squeeze a little lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor! Enjoy it as a side dish or toss it into salads for a nutritious kick!

And there you have it—easy peasy! Just keep an eye on your broccolini during cooking, as air fryers can vary a bit. If you like it extra crispy, feel free to add a minute or two. Happy air frying!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Broccolini Recipe

This air fryer broccolini recipe isn’t just a recipe; it’s a game changer for your side dishes! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious side ready to complement any meal.
Flavorful Delight: The air fryer locks in that natural sweetness and earthy flavor of broccolini, enhanced by garlic and olive oil. Yum!
Health Boost: Broccolini is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants to keep you feeling great. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!
Versatile: It pairs well with so many dishes, from grilled meats to pasta, adding a lovely pop of green to your plate.
Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives you that satisfying crunch without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier choice.

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular on your dinner table!

Tips for Success with Air Fryer Broccolini

To make your air fryer broccolini truly shine, here are some pro tips that’ll elevate your dish to the next level:

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the best results, make sure to arrange your broccolini in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. If you have more broccolini, cook it in batches!
Adjust Cooking Time: Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on your broccolini as it cooks. If you prefer it crispier, feel free to add an extra minute or two, but be careful not to let it burn.
Get Creative with Seasonings: While garlic powder is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or sprinkle with parmesan cheese just before serving for a savory twist.
Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of air fryer broccolini. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Broccolini

Knowing the nutritional breakdown of your air fryer broccolini can help you make informed choices while enjoying this delicious side dish. Here’s an estimate of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 80
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 60mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but rest assured, this air fryer broccolini is a healthy and guilt-free addition to your meals!

Variations for Air Fryer Broccolini

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to jazz up your air fryer broccolini! Here are some tasty variations to try:

Asian-inspired: Sprinkle the broccolini with sesame oil and a dash of soy sauce before air frying. Once it’s done, top it with sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.
Cheesy Goodness: Want to add some richness? Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the broccolini in the last minute of cooking. The cheese will melt beautifully and add a savory bite.
Lemon and Herbs: For a refreshing twist, toss the broccolini with lemon zest, fresh thyme, or rosemary before cooking. The bright flavors will elevate your dish!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mix. It gives a nice contrast to the natural sweetness of the broccolini.

These variations are super easy to incorporate and will keep your air fryer broccolini exciting and fresh every time you make it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Air Fryer Broccolini

If you happen to have leftovers of this delicious air fryer broccolini (which is rare in my house!), storing it properly is key to keeping that vibrant flavor intact. First, let the broccolini cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tight so it doesn’t pick up any funky fridge smells!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze. I recommend popping the broccolini back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This will help revive that crispy texture we all love without making it soggy. You could also use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes if you don’t want to fire up the air fryer again. Either way, you’ll be back to enjoying that tasty side dish in no time!

FAQ About Air Fryer Broccolini

Got questions about air fryer broccolini? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear from fellow home cooks:

How do I know when the broccolini is done? You’ll want to look for that perfect combination of tenderness and crispiness. The broccolini should be bright green and slightly crispy on the edges after about 8-10 minutes in the air fryer. If you want it even crispier, feel free to add an extra minute or two!
Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini? Absolutely! Regular broccoli works just as well. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary slightly since broccoli florets are typically larger.
What else can I pair with air fryer broccolini? The beauty of this dish is its versatility! It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even tossed into pasta dishes. You can also serve it alongside quinoa or rice for a wholesome meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the broccolini and seasonings in advance. Just pop it in the air fryer when you’re ready to serve!

With these answers, I hope you feel more confident about making air fryer broccolini a regular part of your meals. Enjoy your cooking adventures!