Description
This Air Fryer Asparagus recipe delivers perfectly tender and crisp asparagus with a flavorful garlicky Italian seasoning and a touch of Parmesan cheese, all cooked quickly and easily in an air fryer. It’s a healthy, delicious side dish that can be prepared in under 15 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a simple, elegant vegetable dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 pound asparagus (approximately 1 bunch)
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Trim the ends: Start by trimming the woody ends off the asparagus stalks to ensure they cook evenly and are tender.
- Season the asparagus: Toss the trimmed asparagus in olive oil along with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Place in air fryer: Arrange the seasoned asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking.
- Air fry: Cook the asparagus at 370°F. For thin asparagus stalks, cook for 5-7 minutes; for thicker stalks, cook 7-10 minutes until edges become crispy and slightly browned.
- Add Parmesan: Once cooked, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot asparagus, allowing it to slightly melt.
- Serve: Plate the asparagus and serve with lemon wedges for an optional bright, citrusy finish.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of asparagus to prevent undercooking or burning.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese grated just before serving for best flavor.
- Lemon wedges add a nice brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping.
- This recipe is great as a quick side dish for dinner or a healthy snack.
