I love this recipe because it’s fast, dependable, and uses ingredients I almost always have on hand. The air fryer gives the broccoli crispy edges without drying it out, and the lemon juice brightens everything at the end. It’s a great way for me to make vegetables exciting with very little effort.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 oz small broccoli florets, fresh or frozen 3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, optional 1/2 tbsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp ground black pepper 1/2 fresh lemon, juiced
Directions
I start by cutting the broccoli into evenly sized florets, then washing and drying them thoroughly. If I’m using frozen broccoli, I make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
I add the broccoli to a large bowl along with the olive oil, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I toss everything together until the florets are evenly coated.
I preheat the air fryer to 320°F for about 2 minutes. Once heated, I add the broccoli in a single layer and cook it for 8 minutes. I check for doneness by poking it with a fork. If it isn’t crisp-tender yet, I cook it for another 1 to 2 minutes.
Next, I increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F and toss the broccoli in the basket. I cook it for another 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely, until the edges are crispy. I transfer the broccoli to a serving plate and drizzle it with fresh lemon juice before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time takes around 5 minutes, cooking time is about 10 minutes, and the total time comes out to roughly 15 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes skip the parmesan for a dairy-free version or swap it with nutritional yeast. When I want extra flavor, I add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. I also like finishing it with a squeeze of lime instead of lemon for a slightly different taste.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or return it to the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes to bring back some crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
I can, but I always thaw it first and dry it well so it roasts instead of steaming.
Why do I cook it at two different temperatures?
I find that starting lower helps the broccoli cook through, and finishing at a higher temperature creates crispy edges without burning.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
I always preheat because it helps the broccoli cook more evenly and crisp up better.
How do I know when the broccoli is done?
I check that it’s crispy on the outside and tender when poked with a fork.
Can I make this without oil?
I can reduce the oil slightly, but I find a bit of oil helps the seasonings stick and creates better texture.
Conclusion
This easy air fryer broccoli is a simple side dish I make again and again because it’s quick, versatile, and full of flavor. I love how crispy and tender it turns out, and the lemon juice at the end makes it feel fresh and complete. It’s a reliable recipe that makes eating vegetables more enjoyable.
This quick and healthy air fryer broccoli is tossed with garlic, parmesan, and lemon for a crisp-tender texture and golden edges. Perfect side dish in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
12 oz small broccoli florets (fresh or thawed frozen)
3 Tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)
½ Tbsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
½ fresh lemon, juiced (for drizzling)
Instructions
Prep the Broccoli: Cut into even-sized florets. Wash and pat dry. Thaw frozen broccoli before seasoning.
Season: In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Air Fry – First Step: Preheat air fryer to 320°F for 2 minutes. Add broccoli in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes. Check doneness with a fork; cook 1–2 minutes more if needed.
Air Fry – Crisp Step: Increase temp to 400°F and cook 2–4 more minutes until edges are crispy (watch closely to prevent burning).
Serve: Transfer to a plate, drizzle with lemon juice, and serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer.
Cut broccoli evenly to ensure even cooking.
Preheat the air fryer for best results.
Dry broccoli thoroughly to avoid soggy texture.
Toss halfway through air frying for even crispiness.
