Description
Crispy, garlicky broccoli florets made in the air fryer for a quick, healthy snack or side. Ready in just 20 minutes, these bites are addictively tasty and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh broccoli florets (about 4 cups), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, finely grated (optional, or use nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon or 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Wash broccoli under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with a towel. Cut into small, even-sized pieces (about 1-inch florets). Slice stems thinly if using.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest (if using). Let sit for 2 minutes to infuse.
- Place broccoli florets in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the seasoned oil and toss well to coat evenly.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes.
- Arrange broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crisp-tender and edges are browned. Work in batches if needed.
- Optional: Sprinkle with parmesan or nutritional yeast and a squeeze of lemon juice while hot.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
For best results, dry broccoli thoroughly before air frying. Don’t overcrowd the basket—work in batches for maximum crispiness. For vegan, use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry first. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to restore crispness. Add fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 3
Keywords: air fryer broccoli, healthy snack, garlic broccoli, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy broccoli bites, kid-friendly, quick snack, low calorie, vegetable snack