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    Cooking Gorgeous » Recipes » Side Dishes

    Easy Air Fryer Asparagus

    Published: May 3, 2023 by Ayla Clulee · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe

    Crispy, Healthy, and Full of Flavor - This Easy Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe is Ready in Just a Matter of Minutes.

    This foolproof air fryer asparagus recipe will help you create a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal.

    With only three simple ingredients, you can make this nutritious and flavorful vegetable side dish in just 15 minutes.

    asparagus cooked in an air fryer
    Jump to:
    • What is an Air Fryer?
    • Ingredients You'll Need
    • Cooking Asparagus in Air Fryer
    • Top Tips From the Chef
    • How Long to Cook Asparagus in an Air Fryer?
    • Flavor Variations
    • What to Serve with Air Fried Asparagus?
    • Storage and Reheating Instructions
    • Recipe FAQS
    • Related Recipes
    • Easy Air Fryer Asparagus

    Asparagus is a popular vegetable that is both nutritious and delicious.

    However, many people struggle to cook it perfectly, as it can easily become mushy or overcooked.

    That's where the air fryer comes in! In this blog post, I will explain how to use your air fryer to cook easy and delicious asparagus spears in minutes.

    air fryer asparagus served as a side dish to grilled cheese burrito

    Using an air fryer for cooking is a cost-effective option as it requires less energy consumption as compared to a conventional oven.

    I often use my air fryer to make healthy, simple yet delicious dishes such as Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, Crispy Breaded Air Fryer Okra Recipe, Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts, Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas, Homemade Tater Tots in Air Fryer, and Easy Air Fryer Crab Cakes.

    Additionally, I have even used it to make irresistibly soft and fluffy Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls!

    What is an Air Fryer?

    An air fryer is a kitchen gadget that uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy and golden texture similar to fried food, but with significantly less oil.

    It is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods and can be used to cook a wide variety of foods, including chicken, vegetables, seafood, and even desserts.

    The air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and quickly without the need for excess oil or fat.

    With its compact size and ease of use, the air fryer has become a popular appliance in many kitchens, offering a healthier and more convenient way to cook delicious meals.

    12 pieces of air fryer asparagus on a plate

    Ingredients You'll Need

    Please scroll down to the recipe card below for the full ingredients list with measurements, complete recipe method, recipe notes, and nutritional information.

    Labelled picture of ingredients for air fryer asparagus recipe

    Asparagus

    When selecting asparagus, it is essential to look for firm, straight stalks with tightly closed tips.

    Snap off the woody stems or cut them with a sharp knife before cooking them.

    Asparagus typically comes in three sizes: thin, medium, and thick.

    In this recipe, I used a thick variety which takes 10 to 12 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

    If you want to use thin asparagus, it typically takes 5-7 minutes to cook. For medium-sized asparagus, it usually takes 7-9 minutes.

    Other than the asparagus, you will also need:

    • Salt - Fine sea salt or table salt to season your asparagus.
    • Freshly ground black pepper - It adds flavor and finishes the dish off perfectly. Adjust the amount to your taste.
    • Oil - Lightly coat your asparagus spears with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispness.

    Cooking Asparagus in Air Fryer

    Cooking Asparagus in an Air Fryer is extremely easy.

    However, to achieve the best results, you need to follow a few simple tips and steps:

    Preheat your air fryer as you would do with your oven.

    Most air fryers have a preheat button, but if yours doesn't have one, simply turn your air fryer to 195°C (380°F) for 5 minutes.

    Rinse the asparagus and trim off or snap the woody ends.

    cutting the woody bits of asparagus before cooking them

    Place the asparagus in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not touching each other.

    asparagus are placed in an air fryer basket in a single layer

    Lightly spray the asparagus with olive oil, and sprinkle on salt and pepper.

    asparagus spears are covered with oil and seasoning

    Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the asparagus halfway through cooking.

    Remove the asparagus from the air fryer and serve immediately.

    Top Tips From the Chef

    • Before cooking, wash the asparagus and trim the ends. You can snap them off or cut them with a knife, depending on your preference.
    • The size of the asparagus can affect the cooking time. Thicker asparagus will take longer to cook than thinner asparagus, so it's important to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
    • Choosing asparagus spears that are uniform in size will ensure that they cook evenly.
    • To prevent the asparagus from sticking to the basket, spray the basket with cooking spray before adding the asparagus.
    • Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate around the asparagus evenly and helps them cook to perfection.
    • Gently shake the air fryer basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking.
    • Air Fryer Asparagus is best served immediately while it's still crispy and flavorful.

    How Long to Cook Asparagus in an Air Fryer?

    The cooking time for asparagus in an air fryer will depend on the thickness of the stalks.

    For thin asparagus, preheat the air fryer to 195°C (380°F) and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket every couple of minutes to ensure even cooking.

    For medium asparagus, you will need 7-9 minutes, and for thick ones, 10-12 minutes.

    Note that cooking times may vary based on the model and brand of your air fryer, so it's important to check the asparagus regularly to prevent overcooking or undercooking.

    Flavor Variations

    While this air fryer asparagus is a delicious side dish on its own with just some simple salt and pepper, there are a few other flavor options you can try:

    • Lemon Garlic Asparagus - Toss the asparagus with minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and EVOO before air frying for a zesty and flavorful twist.
    • Parmesan Asparagus - Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the cooked asparagus.
    • Balsamic Glazed Asparagus - Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
    • Spicy Asparagus - Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the asparagus before air frying to spice them up!
    • Sesame Ginger Asparagus - Whisk together soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and garlic powder in a bowl, then toss the asparagus in the mixture before air frying for an Asian-inspired flavor.

    What to Serve with Air Fried Asparagus?

    Air Fryer Asparagus is a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

    Here are some serving ideas to try:

    • Mediterranean Baked Salmon - Pair Air Fryer Asparagus with roasted salmon fillets for a delicious and nutritious dinner.
    • Baked Chicken Leg Quarters - Serve Air Fryer Asparagus alongside baked chicken legs for a healthy and satisfying meal.
    • Easy Homemade Peri Peri Chicken
    • Pasta - Toss Air Fryer Asparagus with cooked pasta and a light sauce for a quick and easy vegetarian meal.
    • Russian Salad - Olivier Salad - Add Air Fryer Asparagus to your favorite salad for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
    • Steak Pie - Serve Air Fried Asparagus as a side dish to complement this quintessential British recipe.

    Storage and Reheating Instructions

    Storage

    Air Fryer Asparagus is best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

    If you want to freeze air fryer asparagus, bear in mind that the texture and quality may not be as good after thawing and reheating.

    Asparagus tends to become mushy and lose its crispiness when frozen and reheated.

    Reheating

    To reheat, simply pop the asparagus back into the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through and crispy.

    However, it's worth noting that the texture may not be as crispy and the flavor may not be as vibrant after refrigeration, so it's always best to enjoy this dish right after cooking.

    Recipe FAQS

    Can I use frozen asparagus in an air fryer?

    Yes, you can use frozen asparagus in an air fryer, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

    Is air fryer asparagus healthy?

    Yes, air fryer asparagus is a healthy option. Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
    Cooking it in an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier option.
    Additionally, air frying preserves the nutrients and natural flavors of the asparagus, making it a delicious and nutritious side dish.

    Is air fryer asparagus suitable for a vegan or vegetarian diet?

    Yes, air fryer asparagus is suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets. It is a great source of nutrients and can be seasoned with various vegan or vegetarian-friendly flavors.

    Related Recipes

    For more quick and easy air fryer recipes why not try:

    • Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
    • crispy Brussel Sprouts with bacon
      Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
    • fish sticks cooked in an air fryer
      Fish Sticks In Air Fryer

    Did you make this recipe? Please let me know how it turned out! Leave a comment below and tag @cookingorgeous on Instagram and hashtag it #cookingorgeous.

    I hope you enjoy the process of making this quick and easy Air Fryer Asparagus recipe as much as you enjoy eating it! 🙂

    Bon appétit! / Afiyet Olsun! 

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    Easy Air Fryer Asparagus

    Ayla Clulee
    This foolproof air fryer asparagus recipe will help you create a healthy and flavorful side dish that the whole family will love. 
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    Prep Time 3 minutes mins
    Cook Time 12 minutes mins
    Total Time 15 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 1 kcal

    Equipment

    • 1 kitchen scale
    • 1 Sharp knife
    • 1 air fryer
    • 1 measuring spoons

    Ingredients
     
     

    • 16 thick asparagus
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • spray oil

    Instructions
     

    • Preheat your air fryer as you would do with your oven. Most air fryers have a preheat button, but if yours doesn't have one, simply turn your air fryer to 195°C (380°F) for 5 minutes.
    • Rinse the asparagus and trim off or snap the woody ends.
    • Place the asparagus in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not touching each other.
    • Lightly spray the asparagus with olive oil, and sprinkle on salt and pepper.
    • Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the asparagus halfway through cooking.
    • Remove the asparagus from the air fryer and serve immediately.

    Notes

    • Before cooking, wash the asparagus and trim the ends. You can snap them off or cut them with a knife, depending on your preference.
    • The size of the asparagus can affect the cooking time. Thicker asparagus will take longer to cook than thinner asparagus, so it's important to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
    • Choosing asparagus spears that are uniform in size will ensure that they cook evenly.
    • To prevent the asparagus from sticking to the basket, spray the basket with cooking spray before adding the asparagus.
    • Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate around the asparagus evenly and helps them cook to perfection.
    • Gently shake the air fryer basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking.
    • Air Fryer Asparagus is best served immediately while it's still crispy and flavorful.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 1kcalCarbohydrates: 0.2gProtein: 0.1gFat: 0.01gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.003gSodium: 145mgPotassium: 10mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.1gVitamin A: 31IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 0.1mg
    Tried this recipe?Mention @cookingorgeous or tag #cookingorgeous!

    This post uses affiliate links. This means that if you click on them and then buy something, we get a small amount of commission to keep the site running, but it doesn’t cost you anything more.

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    Welcome to Cooking Gorgeous, where delicious easy-to-follow recipes and culinary inspiration await you! My name is Ayla Clulee, a passionate and professional Cordon Bleu-trained chef, recipe developer, and food content creator with decades of experience. I am based in the UK, and I'm thrilled to have you here.

    The kitchen is my happy place and cooking is my therapy.

    More about me →

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