Air Fryer Broccolini
Air Fryer Broccolini is a super easy and delicious way to eat nutrient-packed broccolini! This dish takes 5 minutes to prep and only 7 minutes (max!) to cook.
Marc and I are big fan of broccolini, but the kids have a hard time getting on board. They will tolerate it, but don't love it. The last time I grilled it Lars asked if we could "just bring back broccoli with cheese sauce" so I was looking for a new way to prepare it that they might enjoy.
Not only did they love the air fryer version, but it was so incredibly easy! It only requires a few ingredients and is an air fryer recipe that I can have in my back pocket when I need a fast veggie side.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy - this recipe is such an easy side to prep and cooks in 6-7 minutes.
- Nutritious - broccolini is packed with fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, and Vitamin K among others!
- Delicious - broccolini is just a really easy vegetable to love (for me!) and I absolutely love this air fryer version.
Jump to:
Ingredients
Broccolini - broccolini is a hybrid vegetable that has longer thinner stalks than broccoli and has a
Olive Oil - this helps crisp up the broccolini in the air fryer.
Fresh Lemon Juice - this adds a little acidity and flavor to the broccolini.
Fresh Garlic - three cloves for delicious garlic flavor.
Salt - to bring out the flavors. You can also add ¼ teaspoon of black pepper if you like.
Please refer to the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients.
Variations
Use Broccoli - you can definitely use broccoli instead. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time.
Different Oil - I love using extra virgin olive oil but you can use any neutral flavored oil like avocado oil or canola oil.
Add Some Spice - if you want to spice up your broccolini, you can add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to it.
Garlic Powder - you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder instead of fresh garlic, if that is what you have on hand.
Add More Lemon Flavor - you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest if you'd like even more lemon flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
Photo 1. Trim the leaves and steps from the broccolini. Then, using a vegetable peeler, lightly peel the outer layer off the stems.
Photo 2. In a large bowl, mix together the prepped broccolini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
Photo 3. Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees F. Once preheated, add the prepped broccolini to the air fryer basket.
Photo 4. Cook for 7-8 minutes, until the broccolini is slightly crispy. Serve immediately topped with Parmesan cheese (optional).
Expert Tips
Storage - store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days. To reheat, you can microwave or pop them back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes.
Serving Suggestions - this broccolini is a great side dish to steak like my Sous Vide Filet Mignon or Tuscan Chicken, along with my Blue Cheese Scalloped Potatoes. You could also serve them with my Blue Cheese Burgers or Chicken Caprese Sandwich.
Peeling the Stem - while this isn't 100% required, it can remove some of the bitterness so I do it for my kids sake. It also ensures the stems are tender and never tough. I also don't do it super thoroughly - just a quick and gentle peel.
Recipe FAQs
No, broccolini is a hybrid between regular broccoli and a Chinese broccoli variety.
Yes. It won't get quite as crispy but you can roast it at 425 for 12-15 minutes.
Other Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes to Consider
If you make this recipe, please let me know! Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating on this recipe below and leave a comment, or take a photo and tag me on Instagram with #greensnchocolate.
Air Fryer Broccolini
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 bunch broccolini 8-12 ounces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tbs lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees F.
- Prep the broccolini by cutting off the ends (still leaving most of the stem) and then, using a vegetable peeler, lightly peeling the outer layer off the stems.
- Toss together the broccolini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add the broccolini to the preheated air fryer basket.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Serve immediately. Top with shredded or grated Parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!
