Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Cut the Broccoli:
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Dry the Broccoli:
- Pat the broccoli florets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy texture.
Step 2: Season the Broccoli
- Mix Seasonings:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Toss Broccoli:
- Add the broccoli florets to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture. Make sure each floret is well-coated with the oil and spices.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
- Arrange Broccoli:
- Place the seasoned broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispiness. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry:
- Cook the broccoli at 400°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Cook until the broccoli is tender and has crispy edges. Adjust cooking time based on your desired level of crispiness.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Optional Topping:
- If desired, sprinkle the air-fried broccoli with grated Parmesan cheese immediately after removing it from the air fryer. The heat from the broccoli will melt the cheese slightly.
- Serve:
- Serve the broccoli hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an optional squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Broccoli
- Uniform Pieces: Cut the broccoli into evenly sized florets to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the broccoli is dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy texture.
- Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking helps the broccoli cook evenly and prevents burning.
- Cheese Option: For a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Spice Variations: Customize the seasoning to your taste. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
Air-fried broccoli is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this healthy vegetable. The air fryer method gives it a wonderful crispy texture while keeping it tender inside. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the seasonings to your liking. Serve it as a side dish, a snack, or a flavorful addition to salads and grain bowls. Enjoy the crispy, seasoned goodness of air-fried broccoli in just a few simple steps!