This air fryer broccolini is the perfect quick side, ready in about 10 minutes. Tender yet crisp broccolini is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic and a squeeze of lemon for a bright finish. It’s my go-to fast vegetable side that pairs well with many main dishes.
Want more air fryer vegetable ideas? Try these air fryer potatoes for another easy side.
Broccolini is an underrated vegetable that suits many meals. If it’s listed as a side at a restaurant, I almost always order it. When roasted it’s delicious, but the air fryer delivers similar caramelised edges and tender stems in a fraction of the time.
The air fryer cooks broccolini to perfection in roughly 6 minutes: the florets crisp up nicely while the stems stay tender with a pleasant bite. It’s a fast, reliable method when you want a flavorful green on the plate without fuss.
Broccolini is plentiful right now, making it a great time to try this recipe. It’s versatile and works with almost any protein — see the suggestions below for easy pairing ideas.
Key Ingredients
Only a few simple ingredients are needed to make this tasty side.
All ingredient measurements appear in the recipe card below.
- Broccolini – one bunch is usually enough for two people; scale up if serving more.
- Olive oil – helps the broccolini crisp in the air fryer. Avocado oil is an easy substitute.
- Garlic powder – adds a gentle garlic flavour without the risk of burning fresh garlic in high heat.
- Lemon – optional fresh lemon juice or wedges brighten the cooked broccolini.
Equipment and Tools
An air fryer is required for this method; choose a capacity that fits your household. For two people a standard basket works well; families may prefer an XL model.
Air fryer – you’ll need one to make this recipe. Pick a size suited to how many people you regularly cook for.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Begin by rinsing the broccolini and patting it dry. Trim any tough ends from the stems.
Place the broccolini in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Arrange the broccolini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for about 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
Transfer to a plate and serve immediately with lemon wedges. Broccolini is best while hot and crisp — letting it sit too long can make it soggy.
What to serve with air fryer broccolini
This broccolini cooks quickly, so it’s ideal to prepare alongside proteins that need a short rest after cooking. Try it with:
- Air fryer lemon pepper chicken
- Air fryer steak
- Air fryer lamb chops
- Air fryer pork chops
- Air fryer chicken breast
- Air fryer chicken schnitzel
- Air fryer teriyaki salmon
For sauces, a lemon garlic sauce or a vegan basil pesto both complement broccolini nicely.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. This method works for regular broccoli, though you’ll likely need to cut florets smaller and may need a slightly longer cook time. Check at around 6 minutes and add more time if needed.
You can, but fresh garlic can burn at high air fryer temperatures and become bitter. For a stronger garlic note without burning, use a garlic-infused olive oil.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 2–3 minutes to restore warmth and crispness.
If you make this recipe, please leave a comment and a rating below. Tag your photos on Instagram with @eightforestlane — I’d love to see them.
More vegetable sides:
Roasted Vegetable Salad
Vegan Cauliflower Cheese Bake
The BEST Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy Salt and Vinegar Smashed Potatoes
Air Fryer Broccolini
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Equipment
-
air fryer
Ingredients
- 1 bunch broccolini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil approximately
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
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Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
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Trim any tough ends from the broccolini stems and add to a bowl. Toss the broccolini with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
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Arrange the broccolini in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
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Transfer to a plate and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is provided as a guide only and is calculated using automated tools; actual values may vary based on ingredients and portions used.
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