One of the best things about air fryer broccoli is that it is quick and easy to make. It is ready in a fraction of the time it would take to roast broccoli in the oven, and it is a great option for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
In addition to being quick and easy, air fryer broccoli is also healthy. It is made with just a few simple ingredients, and it is a great source of vitamins and nutrients. The lemon juice and garlic add flavor and make the broccoli taste even better, and the parmesan cheese adds a nice, cheesy crunch.
What kind of air fryer should I use?
Air fryers are designed to cook food using hot air instead of oil. They work by circulating hot air around the food, which results in a crispy and delicious texture. This is similar to how a traditional convection oven works, but air fryers are typically smaller and more portable.
To use an air fryer, you simply place your food in the fryer basket and set the temperature and cooking time. The air fryer will then heat up and circulate hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and quickly.
Here’s a look at the three main options for air fryer appliances currently available on the market so you can decide which one is best for you:
Traditional Air Fryer: This is a standalone appliance that typically has a basket or tray for the food and a control panel for setting the temperature and cooking time. Traditional air fryers are versatile and can be used to cook a wide variety of foods, including chicken, fish, vegetables, and even desserts.
Air Fryer Oven or Oven Setting: This is a standard-sized home appliance that combines the features of an air fryer with those of a traditional oven. Your modern oven may have a specific air fryer setting rather than a more traditional convection setting. These are a good option for people who want to cook large quantities of food or who want to use their air fryer for multiple cooking functions.
Air Fryer Toaster Oven: This is a smaller appliance that combines the features of an air fryer with those of a toaster oven. Air fryer toaster ovens are compact and can be a good option for people who have limited kitchen space. They are also a good option for people who want to use their air fryer for a variety of cooking tasks, including toasting and baking.
Tips and Tricks
The key to getting crispy broccoli in an air fryer is to start with the right temperature and cooking technique. With these simple tips, you can enjoy perfectly roasted and crispy broccoli every time.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: It’s important to preheat the air fryer before using. This will help to quickly cook the broccoli and give it a crispy texture. You should also spray the broccoli with a light coating of cooking oil, which will help to crisp it up and prevent it from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: Be sure to spread the broccoli out in a single layer so that it can cook evenly and get crispy on all sides. You may need to cook the broccoli in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer and the amount of broccoli you are trying to cook.
Shake the Basket: Additionally, you can try shaking the basket halfway through cooking to help distribute the heat and ensure that the broccoli cooks evenly. This will help to ensure that all sides of the broccoli are exposed to the heat and get crispy.
Watch Closely: Finally, keep an eye on the broccoli as it cooks. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and quantity of the broccoli, as well as the exact temperature of the air fryer. You can check the broccoli for doneness by piercing it with a fork or knife. If it is tender and crispy, it is ready to be enjoyed.
