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For this tasty dish, you will need: - 1 pound fresh broccoli florets - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced Using fresh broccoli is key. Look for bright green florets. They should feel firm and crisp. Fresh garlic adds a nice punch to the flavor. These seasonings give the broccoli its special taste: - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Parmesan cheese brings a savory touch. Garlic powder enhances the garlic flavor. Use salt and pepper to make everything pop. Want to spice things up? Consider adding: - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick) - Zest of 1 lemon Red pepper flakes add heat. The lemon zest brightens the dish and balances the rich flavors. Feel free to mix and match these add-ins! First, wash the fresh broccoli florets under cold water. This step cleans any dirt or residues. Next, dry the florets with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This helps the broccoli crisp up in the air fryer. Moisture can make it soggy, so drying is key. In a large mixing bowl, add the dried broccoli florets. Pour in three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Then, add four cloves of finely minced garlic and one teaspoon of garlic powder. If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle in half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything gently but well. Make sure each floret is coated with oil and spices. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This helps the broccoli cook evenly and become crispy. Once ready, place the seasoned broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed. Cook for eight to ten minutes. Shake the basket halfway through. This ensures even cooking. After cooking, remove the broccoli and return it to the mixing bowl. While it's hot, sprinkle half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the florets. Toss gently until the cheese slightly melts. Finally, add the zest of one lemon for a bright flavor. Toss again before serving. Enjoy this delicious, crisp dish! To get the best crispiness, dry the broccoli well. Water makes the florets steam instead of crisp. Use a clean towel to pat them dry thoroughly. Next, toss them in olive oil and seasonings. This helps the broccoli crisp in the air fryer. Spread them out in a single layer in the basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high heat cooks the broccoli fast and helps it crisp up nicely. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, but check for doneness. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get that perfect golden-brown color. If you prefer extra crispy edges, add an extra minute or two as needed. Start by rinsing the broccoli under cold water. This removes dirt and any chemicals. Cut into florets as needed. Make sure to pat them dry with a towel. This step is very important! Proper cleaning helps keep your broccoli fresh and tasty. Store any leftover broccoli in a plastic bag or container in the fridge for up to three days. {{image_4}} You can add protein to your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli. Chicken or tofu work well. For chicken, use bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and seasonings. Cook the chicken first for about 10 minutes. Then, add the broccoli for the last 8 minutes. This way, both cook perfectly. For tofu, press it first to remove extra moisture. Cut it into cubes, then mix with the same seasonings. Cook it for 10 to 12 minutes alongside the broccoli. This adds a hearty touch to your dish. If you want a vegan option, skip the Parmesan cheese. Instead, use nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. Mix about 1/2 cup of nutritional yeast into the broccoli after cooking. You can also try vegan cheese shreds. Add them in the last minute of cooking. They will melt and provide a nice texture. This keeps your dish creamy and flavorful without animal products. To spice things up, add more heat with spices. Start with the red pepper flakes. Increase the amount to 1 teaspoon for extra kick. You can also add cayenne pepper or chili powder. Mix these spices into your seasoning blend. This makes the broccoli bold and exciting. If you love garlic, add more minced garlic too. A little extra zest will make the dish pop. Enjoy your spicy broccoli as a side or snack. To keep your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli fresh, store it in an airtight container. Allow the broccoli to cool to room temperature before sealing it. This step keeps moisture out and helps maintain the crispiness. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to eat your leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the broccoli in the basket and heat for about 3 to 5 minutes. This method revives the crisp texture while warming the broccoli evenly. You can also use a microwave but keep in mind it may make the broccoli a bit soggy. If you want to freeze your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli, first let it cool completely. Then, place the cooled broccoli in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it. You can freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, move the bag to the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the air fryer for the best texture, following the reheating tips above. Yes, you can use an oven instead. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the seasoned broccoli on a baking sheet. Roast for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through for even cooking. The broccoli will not be as crispy, but it will still taste great. This dish pairs well with many meals. Here are a few ideas: - Grilled chicken or fish - Pasta dishes - Quinoa or rice bowls - A fresh salad - As a snack on its own These options bring out the flavors and make a balanced plate, adding protein or carbs. To make more servings, simply scale the ingredients. For two pounds of broccoli, use: - 6 tablespoons olive oil - 8 cloves of garlic - 1 cup Parmesan cheese - Adjust seasonings to taste. Cook in batches if needed. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. This post covered how to make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli. You learned about fresh ingredients, essential seasonings, and fun add-ins. We walked through prepping the broccoli, mixing the seasonings, and cooking in the air fryer. I shared tips for crispiness, the best settings, and cleaning practices. You saw variations like adding proteins or going vegan. Plus, we discussed storing and reheating leftovers. Now, it’s time to enjoy this simple, tasty recipe! Cook with your favorite flavors and share it with others.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli

Discover the mouthwatering Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe that's sure to delight your taste buds! In just 20 minutes, transform fresh broccoli florets into a crispy, cheesy side dish packed with flavor and a refreshing hint of lemon. Perfect for any meal or as a tasty snack! Click through to explore this easy recipe and elevate your dining experience with simple ingredients and a quick prep time. Enjoy the crunch!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh broccoli florets

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

Begin by thoroughly washing the broccoli florets under cold running water, then carefully pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure they do not retain moisture.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried broccoli florets with the olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if desired), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the ingredients gently but thoroughly, making sure every floret is evenly coated with the oil and seasoning blend.

      Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal cooking results.

        Once the air fryer has reached the desired temperature, arrange the seasoned broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, allowing for even cooking and crispiness.

          Cook the broccoli for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure that the florets crisp up evenly and achieve a tender texture.

            After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the broccoli from the air fryer and transfer them back to the mixing bowl.

              While the broccoli is still hot, generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the florets. Toss gently until the cheese begins to melt slightly, coating the broccoli and elevating the flavor.

                To finish, add in the lemon zest for a refreshing burst of citrus. Toss the mixture once more to combine all the elements before serving.

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 20 min | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the delectable garlic Parmesan broccoli in a large decorative bowl or arrange them elegantly on a platter. Garnish with additional lemon zest and a light sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top to enhance visual appeal. Enjoy this dish as a scrumptious side or a wholesome snack that bursts with flavor!