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Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli

This Crispy Garlic Air Fryer Broccoli transforms ordinary broccoli into an irresistibly crispy, garlicky side dish in just minutes, making it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Broccoli
  • 1 pound 1 pound (about 450 g) broccoli florets, trimmed and cut into even bite-sized pieces Use fresh, firm crowns for best crisping
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon cornstarch For extra crispiness (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Finish
  • 3 cloves 3 cloves garlic, finely minced Or 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a gentler garlic flavor
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon unsalted butter Or 1 tablespoon extra olive oil for a dairy-free option
  • 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh
  • 3/4 teaspoon Salt Or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Optional for crunchy topping
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs Optional for crunchy topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the broccoli dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the florets with cornstarch (if using), then add olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each floret is lightly and evenly coated.
Cooking
  1. Place broccoli in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  2. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the florets at the 4 to 5 minute mark.
  3. Look for golden-brown edges and a tender-crisp center.
Finishing
  1. While broccoli cooks, heat butter or oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
  3. Transfer hot broccoli to a bowl, pour the garlic-lemon mixture over it, and toss gently to coat. If using Parmesan or panko, sprinkle it on top immediately.
  4. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra crunch, sprinkle a tablespoon of panko mixed with a teaspoon of olive oil over the florets before air frying. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to regain crispiness.