Air Fryer Asparagus

This Air Fryer Asparagus recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. With a simple combination of olive oil, garlic powder, sea salt, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, this asparagus is air-fried to crispy perfection in just 6 minutes. It’s a great way to cook asparagus with minimal effort while keeping it tender inside and crispy outside. Perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, vegetarian side dish, this recipe is ideal for pairing with grilled chicken, roasted fish, or even as a stand-alone snack. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious air fryer asparagus for a simple yet satisfying addition to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 bundle asparagus
• ½ teaspoon Costabile Brand lemon olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Rinse and dry the asparagus thoroughly. Trim off the bottom 1 ½ inches of the stalks to remove the tough ends.
2. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus with the olive oil, lemon olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Toss well to coat the asparagus evenly.
3. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese on top.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 6 minutes, checking for desired crispness and adjusting the time as necessary based on the size of the asparagus.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Asparagus recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The air fryer gives the asparagus a perfectly crispy texture while keeping the insides tender. The addition of lemon-infused olive oil adds a refreshing citrus note, and the parmesan cheese gives it a savory, umami-rich finish. Ready in just 6 minutes, it’s a perfect side dish for any meal, whether you’re serving it with fish, chicken, or a plant-based dinner. Healthy, flavorful, and simple to prepare!

Tips

• Even Layering: For the best results, arrange the asparagus in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly.
• Check Doneness: If you prefer your asparagus more crisp or tender, adjust the cooking time slightly. Thin asparagus will cook faster, while thicker stalks may need a minute or two longer.
• Preheat Air Fryer: For a consistent cook, preheat your air fryer before adding the asparagus.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: If you don’t have parmesan, try other cheeses like pecorino or cheddar for a different flavor.
• Add Spices: Experiment with other spices like paprika, red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or Italian seasoning for extra herby goodness.
• Vegan Option: Omit the parmesan cheese and drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for a vegan-friendly version.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh asparagus works best in this recipe, but you can use frozen asparagus. Just be sure to thaw it fully and pat it dry before cooking.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can air fry it for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to bring back some crispiness.

Can I cook more asparagus at once?
Yes, but make sure to arrange the asparagus in a single layer. If you have a lot of asparagus, you may need to cook it in batches for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer asparagus makes an excellent side dish for a variety of meals, such as grilled chicken, roasted fish, or pasta dishes. It pairs wonderfully with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve it as part of a healthy dinner or as a tasty addition to a brunch spread. You can also add it to salads or serve it with dips like ranch or aioli for an appetizer.