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Air fryer broccoli is served in a white bowl for a low-carb side.
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4.79 from 28 votes

Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe

In less than 10 minutes, you can have Air Fryer Broccoli with Parmesan! This crispy and healthy vegetable recipe is perfectly flavored with garlic and Parmesan and just a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Jennifer Deppa

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. broccoli 4-5 cups, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 2 Tbsp. oil avocado or olive
  • 1 clove garlic crushed
  • ½ tsp. salt to taste
  • ¼ tsp. black pepper
  • ½ tsp. lemon zest optional
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated, divided, optional

Instructions

  • Season Broccoli: Heat air fryer to 370°F for at least 3 minutes. Whisk together oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add broccoli florets and stir until they are well coated in the sauce. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and toss to coat.
    1 lb. broccoli, 2 Tbsp. oil, 1 clove garlic, ½ tsp. salt, ¼ tsp. black pepper, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
  • Cook in Air Fryer: Add broccoli to the heated air fryer and cook for 4-5 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. For extra crispy edges: Turn up heat to 390°F, give the basket a good toss, and return broccoli to the air fryer for an additional minute.
  • Serve broccoli with freshly grated lemon zest and the remaining Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
    ½ tsp. lemon zest, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

Video

Notes

Prep-Ahead Instructions:

If needed, you can slice the broccoli into bite-sized pieces a day or two ahead of time. But this dish is best enjoyed immediately. 
Storage Directions:
This dish will keep in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days when left in the refrigerator between servings. However, after 24 hours the broccoli will begin to lose its crispness. Flash freeze the broccoli by first freezing the broccoli on a tray in a single layer for a couple of hours before placing it in a container. It will keep for up to 6 to 9 months in the freezer. Pop broccoli back in the air fryer for a few minutes to reheat. Or, you can warm them up in a 350℉ oven for 5 to 10 minutes.
Recipe Tips:
  • Bite-sized chunks. Small pieces of broccoli ensure perfect crisping and texture.
  • Do it early. You can cut broccoli a day or two ahead of time to save some prep-work when you're ready to cook.
  • Get it hot. Be sure to preheat the air fryer so the veggies get super crispy.
  • Toss it up. Shake the basket so the broccoli is cooked on all sides. To ensure a toasted texture, bump the heat up to 390℉ and cook for another minute.
  • Go crazy. You can top this healthy side dish with so many things! Drizzle with this Balsamic reduction, add some spice with red pepper flakes, or mix with bacon.

Nutrition

Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 377mg | Potassium: 358mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 755IU | Vitamin C: 102mg | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 1mg