How to Cook Frozen Broccoli in an Air Fryer for a Crispy and Delicious Side Dish
Frozen broccoli is a kitchen staple, and air fryers are all the rage. So why not combine the two for a quick, easy, and healthy side dish?
This method for cooking frozen broccoli in an air fryer produces perfectly crisp and flavorful florets, a great alternative to steaming or microwaving.
Here's what you'll need:
- Frozen Broccoli Florets: Choose a bag of frozen broccoli florets.
- Air Fryer: You'll need an air fryer with at least a 2-quart capacity.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For a bit of extra flavor and to help the broccoli crisp up.
- Seasonings (optional): Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or your favorite spice blend.
Steps for Cooking Frozen Broccoli in an Air Fryer:
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Broccoli: Remove the frozen broccoli from the bag and let it thaw slightly for a few minutes. This will help the broccoli cook more evenly.
- Season: Toss the broccoli florets with olive oil or cooking spray, and then sprinkle with your desired seasonings.
- Air Fry: Place the seasoned broccoli florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring that the florets aren't overcrowded.
- Cook: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, to ensure even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: The broccoli should be tender and slightly crispy. If you prefer a more browned broccoli, increase the cooking time by a minute or two.
- Serve: Serve the cooked broccoli immediately.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: This will prevent the broccoli from cooking evenly and can lead to steam build-up.
- Shake the basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures that all sides of the broccoli get crispy.
- Experiment with seasonings: Get creative with your seasonings. Try different herbs, spices, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a flavorful twist.
- Leftovers: Store leftover cooked broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.
