Craving a healthy and delicious side dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Air Fryer Broccolini is the answer. With its crispy texture, tangy lemon flavor, and nutty parmesan cheese, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests.
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both healthy and delicious, Air Fryer Broccolini is the perfect answer. This recipe is packed with flavor and texture, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. The air fryer transforms the broccolini into a crispy, crunchy delight that’s perfect for even the pickiest eaters. With the addition of garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, this dish is bursting with savory flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more. But that’s not all – the dish is finished off with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a generous sprinkle of nutty parmesan cheese. The lemon adds a refreshing tang that balances out the rich flavors of the broccolini and the parmesan, making it a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. And the best part? This dish is incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to add more veggies to their diet without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, air fryer broccolini is a recipe that’s sure to impress.
What is the difference between broccoli and broccolini?
While broccoli and broccolini may look similar, they are actually different vegetables. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that’s part of the cabbage family. It has a thick stem and large florets that can be eaten raw or cooked. Broccolini, on the other hand, is a hybrid of broccoli and Chinese kale. It has long, thin stems and small, tender florets that are sweeter and more delicate than broccoli. Broccolini is also more tender than broccoli and requires less cooking time. While both vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, broccolini is a great choice for anyone who wants a milder, sweeter flavor and a more delicate texture.
Oil Options
While this recipe calls for olive oil, there are many other oils you can use to flavor your broccolini. For example, coconut oil adds a tropical twist, while sesame oil adds an Asian flair. You can also experiment with flavored oils like garlic or chili-infused oils for an extra punch of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is recommended for this recipe, but it’s entirely optional. If you’re not a fan of cheese, you can easily omit it or substitute it with another cheese that you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer broccolini is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many main courses. It’s delicious with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon. You can also serve it with rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
The cooking time for air fryer broccolini can vary depending on the size and thickness of the florets. However, it usually takes around 8-10 minutes at 400°F.
Yes, it’s important to preheat the air fryer before cooking broccolini to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
To prevent the broccolini from getting too dry or burnt, be sure to toss it in oil or butter before air frying. You can also spritz the broccolini with water halfway through cooking to keep it moist.
Be sure to spread your broccolini out in a single layer in the air fryer basket and don’t overcrowd it. This allows the hot air to circulate around the broccolini and create a crispy exterior.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the broccolini in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F or until heated through.
If you like this recipe, you may be interested in these other delicious air fryer side dish recipes:
