Parmesan Roasted Air Fryer Asparagus is a quick, healthy air fryer recipe perfect for a simple side dish. You’ll love how easy it is to make this flavorful vegetable.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Asparagus: Choose fresh, firm spears. Frozen asparagus can be used but may be less crisp.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; pre-shredded works too. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil or another neutral cooking oil can be used.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used, but garlic powder coats more evenly.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness; omit if you prefer.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch (about 1 pound) fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 80 (approx.)
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, large bowl, tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Asparagus
First, wash your asparagus thoroughly. Snap off the tough, woody ends from each spear; they will naturally break at the right spot.
2. Season the Asparagus
Place the trimmed asparagus into a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until the asparagus is evenly coated.
3. Add the Parmesan
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss again to ensure the cheese adheres to the asparagus spears.
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps achieve a crispier result.
5. Air Fry the Asparagus
Arrange the seasoned asparagus in a single layer in your air fryer basket. You might need to cook in two batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly browned.
6. Serve Immediately
Transfer the cooked Parmesan roasted air fryer asparagus to a serving platter. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for an extra zing. Enjoy this delicious and healthy air fryer recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
- Herbaceous: Sprinkle with dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley after cooking.
- Cheesy Variations: Try adding a little smoked paprika or onion powder to the Parmesan mixture.
- Nutty Flavor: A sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds after cooking adds a nice crunch.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Parmesan roasted air fryer asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through, or in a microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you put raw asparagus in an air fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely put raw asparagus directly into the air fryer. The air fryer cooks it perfectly from raw.
Do you need to trim asparagus before air frying?
Yes, you should always trim the tough, woody ends of asparagus before cooking. This ensures a more pleasant eating experience.
Can you make this recipe with frozen asparagus?
You can, but it’s best to thaw frozen asparagus and pat it very dry first. The cooking time might be slightly longer, and it may not get as crisp.
What temperature is best for air frying asparagus?
375°F (190°C) is ideal for achieving tender-crisp asparagus with nice browning.
How do you keep asparagus from getting soggy in the air fryer?
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure good air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary, and don’t overcook the asparagus.
Is this a healthy air fryer recipe?
Yes, this is a fantastic healthy air fryer recipe. Asparagus is low in calories and rich in nutrients, and air frying uses minimal oil.
