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Closeup of air fryer broccolini on a white plate with lemon and parmesan cheese.

Air Fryer Broccolini (Crispy, Easy & Quick!)

Chelsea Plummer | Mae's Menu
This air fryer broccolini comes out perfectly crispy on the tips and tender on the stalks in under 15 minutes. Finished with fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parmesan, it's the easy, wholesome side dish that pairs beautifully with just about any protein — and it only takes a handful of ingredients to make.
5 from 2 votes
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 89 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz broccolini (about 2 bundles) cleaned and ends trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
  • Large pinch salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or balsamic or red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F with the basket inserted. (Use 400°F for crispier, more charred results.)
  • Wash and thoroughly dry the broccolini. Trim the bottom ½ to 1 inch off the stalks. Trim to fit your air fryer basket if needed.
  • In a large bowl, drizzle the broccolini with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat evenly.
  • Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed — do not overcrowd.
  • Air fry for 6-8 minutes, tossing or shaking the basket halfway through, until the stalks are deep green and the floret tips are golden and crispy. (If cooking at 400°F for crispier results, plan for 8-10 minutes.)
  • Transfer to a plate. Immediately finish with fresh lemon juice and grated parmesan (if using). Serve hot.

Notes

Dry it first — Thoroughly pat the broccolini dry before seasoning. Wet broccolini steams instead of crisps.
A single layer is essential — Crowding the basket traps moisture and prevents crisping. Cook in batches if needed.
Temp & time guide:
  • 375°F for 6-8 minutes = tender-crisp with bright color
  • 400°F for 8-10 minutes = crispier tips, more golden color
  • Thicker stalks = add 1-2 minutes; smaller pieces = subtract 1-2 minutes
  • Check at the 7-minute mark your first time
Seasoning Variations:
  • Sesame + Soy: Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil after cooking; top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
  • Chili Flakes + Garlic: Toss with red pepper flakes and garlic before cooking; finish with lemon juice or red wine vinegar.
  • Everything Bagel: Coat lightly in everything bagel seasoning before air frying.
Storage:Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a 350°F air fryer for 2-3 minutes. Does not freeze well.

Nutrition

Calories: 89kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 77mgPotassium: 8mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2023IUVitamin C: 106mgCalcium: 102mgIron: 1mg
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