Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower — Are you looking for a quick, delicious side dish that takes minimal effort? Look no further than this air fryer broccoli and cauliflower recipe!

This simple yet tasty way to prepare broccoli & cauliflower is healthy and incredibly easy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast or as a side dish everyone can enjoy on holidays.

You’ll love the crispy, golden crust with just the right amount of seasoning – plus, it’s ready in just fifteen minutes! So why wait? Let’s get cooking!

Why You Will Love Roasted Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

Roasting vegetables in the air fryer is a delicious and convenient way to cook them up quickly. This combination of broccoli and cauliflower is healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare – here’s why you will love it!

• Nutritious: The air fryer cooks these two veggies together perfectly while maintaining their nutritional value. Broccoli and cauliflower are high in dietary fiber, vitamins K and C, folate, potassium, and magnesium. Plus, their low-calorie count makes this dish a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.

• Delicious:  Air frying these veggies brings out their natural sweetness with just the right amount of crunchiness that people love! A simple mixture of olive oil and spices adds an extra layer of flavor to make them even more irresistible.

• Naturally Gluten-Free: A perfect side dish if you have been looking for easy air fryer gluten-free recipes!

• Easy to Prepare:  This recipe takes just minutes; you only need some fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets, olive oil, garlic powder, salt & pepper! Mix everything in a large bowl before transferring it into the air fryer basket – that’s it! Serve your roasted broccoli and cauliflower hot or cold with your favorite sauce or dressing for added flavor.

Making broccoli cauliflower is a perfect side dish. Serve with air fryer chicken legs, air fryer crispy chicken legs, or even serve with some lemon juice as a quick snack!  Naturally gluten-free and healthy recipe! 

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Cauliflower and Broccoli Recipe

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower is the perfect dish for any night of the week! Not only is it healthy and packed with nutrition, but it’s also quick to whip up in your air fryer. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can make an irresistible side dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or an entree, this recipe can fit into any meal plan, making it versatile and delicious! So what are you waiting for? Gather up your broccoli and cauliflower florets and head over to your air fryer–it’s time to get cooking!

Remember the step-by-step directions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page and the nutritional information. ​

• Broccoli: Whole head of broccoli or broccoli florets, washed and dried. Fresh broccoli florets turn crisp and charred in the air fryer, providing a delightful bite and enriched flavor.

• Cauliflower: Cauliflower florets, washed and dried. When air-fried, cauliflower takes on a nutty, roasted flavor that pairs beautifully with its broccoli counterpart.

• Olive Oil: Drizzling or tossing the veggies in olive oil ensures they get a golden-brown finish and prevents them from becoming too dry in the air fryer.

• Kosher Salt:. Salt helps bring out the vegetables’ natural flavors and balances the seasoning.

• Black Pepper: Freshly ground (or to taste). The freshly ground black pepper’s sharpness complements the earthiness of broccoli and cauliflower.

• Garlic Powder: For those who like an additional kick, garlic powder offers a subtle depth of flavor that meshes well with roasted veggies.

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love a touch of heat, red pepper flakes can enhance the overall taste, making the veggies slightly spicy and even more irresistible.

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkling some Parmesan cheese towards the end of the cooking time or once out of the air fryer can elevate the dish, adding a salty and umami flavor.

When prepping your broccoli and cauliflower for the air fryer, ensure the florets are cut into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Also, ensuring they are thoroughly dried post-washing will ensure the best crispy outcome.

How To Cook Broccoli and Cauliflower In Air Fryer

Are you looking for an easy way for your family to eat more veggies? Have you struggled to find the time and energy to whip up a nutritious meal? If so, an air fryer can be just the tool you need! Air frying is all the rage nowadays – it’s healthy, quick, and versatile. We will show you how this magical tiny appliance can make delicious and nutrient-rich broccoli and cauliflower recipes in no time. Join us as we explore the simple yet flavor-packed world of air-fried broccoli and cauliflower – perfect for those busy weeknight dinners or lazy weekend brunches. Dig in!

Cooking broccoli and cauliflower in an air fryer is a delicious and easy way to enjoy these nutritious vegetables. All you need are fresh broccoli, cauliflower florets, olive oil, spices, and other ingredients! Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prep the Veggies

Start by cutting the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Place them into a large bowl, then season with salt & pepper plus any additional spices you choose (garlic powder is always a great option).

Step 2: Add Oil & Toss

Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter to help the veggies crisp up even more during cooking – then give everything one final toss so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cook in Air Fryer

Transfer the veggies to your air fryer basket or tray in a single layer, cook at 400 degrees F, and set the cooking time for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown – occasionally stirring for even cooking.

Tips For Roasting Cauliflower and Broccoli In Air Fryer

• Uniform Size: Ensure that the broccoli and cauliflower florets are cut into similar sizes. This promotes even cooking and ensures that some pieces don’t overcook while others remain undercooked. Bite-sized broccoli is the best for this recipe. 

• Dry Them Out: After washing your veggies, pat them dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Excess moisture can prevent the florets from achieving that perfect crispy texture.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Give the florets some space! Overcrowding the air fryer basket may lead to unevenly cooked vegetables. It’s better to cook in batches than to fit everything in at once.

• Shake the Basket: Halfway through the cooking process, gently shake the basket or use a spatula to turn the florets. This helps in even cooking and browning.

• Oil Evenly: Whether spraying or drizzling, ensure the oil covers the veggies uniformly. This helps them roast and get that golden color evenly.

• Seasoning: Season the veggies after oiling them. This ensures that the seasonings stick well to the florets and are not lost when shaking or turning the veggies.

• Temperature Check: Vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli can burn quickly. It’s essential to watch them, especially the first time you make them, until you get a feel for the perfect timing and temperature with your specific air fryer model. The cook time will vary based on the air fryer you are using.

• Add Cheese at the End: If you’re adding Parmesan or any other cheese, consider adding it during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This allows it to melt and brown slightly without burning.

• Test Doneness: A fork should easily pierce the stem of the florets when they’re done. If you prefer softer vegetables, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes.

• Experiment with Flavors: Once you master the basic recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings like curry powder, onion powder, sea salt, turmeric, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a unique twist.

Remember, each air fryer brand and model might have slight variations. Refer to your manufacturer’s guide, and adjust the cooking time and temperature as necessary.

​​FAQ For Cooking Cauliflower and Broccoli In Air Fryer​

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before adding the veggies?

While some air fryer models recommend preheating, it’s not always necessary. However, preheating can help achieve a more consistent texture and color. Check your air fryer’s manual for specific guidance.

How long does cooking broccoli and cauliflower in the air fryer take?

Generally, it takes about 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). However, cooking times can vary depending on the size of your florets and the specific model of your air fryer.

Do I need to use oil?

A little oil helps in achieving a crispy texture and golden color. You can use an oil spray or lightly drizzle and toss the veggies in oil.

Can I mix other vegetables with broccoli and cauliflower?

Absolutely! You can add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, for instance. Just ensure that all veggies are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

Why are my vegetables not crispy?

This can be due to overcrowding the air fryer basket, insufficient oil, or excess moisture on the veggies before cooking. Ensure you dry the veggies well and give them space in the basket.

Can I store leftover air-fried broccoli and cauliflower

Yes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat and regain crispiness, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes.

Is cooking broccoli and cauliflower in the air fryer healthier than deep frying?

Absolutely! Air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, resulting in a reduction in calories and unhealthy fats.

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?

Yes, you can air fry frozen veggies directly. However, they might take a bit longer to cook, and the texture might differ slightly from fresh veggies.

Should I season my veggies before or after air frying?

Seasoning before ensures the flavors meld into the vegetables while they cook. However, if you’re adding a sauce or cheese, consider doing so towards the end of the cooking process.

How can I avoid the veggies from tasting too dry?

Using a small amount of oil and not overcooking the vegetables will ensure they retain moisture and don’t become overly dry.

How To Cook Frozen Broccoli and Cauliflower In Air Fryer

Preparation: Remove the frozen broccoli and cauliflower from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand.

Preheat the Air Fryer: While some models don’t require this step, preheating the air fryer for a few minutes is a good practice for best results. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 3-5 minutes.

Season the Vegetables: Place the frozen broccoli and cauliflower in a bowl. Drizzle or spray a small amount of oil over them. This will help the veggies roast nicely and get that golden hue. Then, sprinkle your preferred seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or other spices.

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Transfer the seasoned broccoli and cauliflower to the air fryer basket, spreading them in an even layer. Ensure they aren’t too overcrowded; if necessary, cook in batches.

Cooking: Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook the vegetables for 12-15 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a shake or gently stir the veggies to ensure even cooking.

Check for Doneness: After the cooking time, check the veggies. They should have a slightly crispy exterior with a tender interior. If they aren’t crispy enough for your liking, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve: Once done, transfer the broccoli and cauliflower to a serving plate. Adjust seasonings if needed, or add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Enjoy your quick and delicious air-fried broccoli and cauliflower as a side dish, or incorporate them into your main dish.

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If you loved the air fryer cauliflower and broccoli recipe, remember to check out the rest of my easy side dish recipes, perfect for a healthy or quick side dish.