If you’re a fan of asparagus and want to enjoy it in a new and exciting way, look no further than Air Fryer Asparagus with Parmesan and Garlic. This quick and easy recipe combines the natural goodness of asparagus with the irresistible flavors of Parmesan and garlic, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Join me as we explore this delightful dish.
1. Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus spears
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the asparagus spears and trim off the tough ends by snapping them off at their natural breaking point.
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
Place the asparagus spears in the air fryer basket and drizzle the garlic and olive oil mixture over them. Toss the asparagus gently to ensure even coating.
Set the air fryer to cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly crispy.
Add grated Parmesan in the last 2-3 minutes of air frying, just before the asparagus is fully done.
Carefully remove the asparagus from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish.
Serve the air fried asparagus immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
2. Tips to Perfecting This Recipe
Choose the Right Asparagus
This means selecting fresh, firm stalks with bright green color and tightly closed tips. Thinner spears will cook faster and tend to be crispier, while thicker spears might be meatier but need more cooking time. Trimming off the tough, woody ends ensures you’re left with tender, flavorful asparagus. Starting with high-quality asparagus is the foundation for the perfect dish.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating ensures the air fryer is at the ideal cooking temperature before you begin. This step helps asparagus cook evenly and quickly, giving it a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender. Skipping this step could lead to uneven cooking or soggy results.
Arrange Asparagus in a Single Layer
To achieve even cooking and a crispy texture, spread the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overlapping or overcrowding prevents the hot air from circulating around each spear, which could result in unevenly cooked asparagus or parts that are too soft. For the best results, work in batches if needed.
Add Parmesan at the Right Time
Sprinkling parmesan on too early might cause it to burn or dry out. Adding it in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking allows it to melt slightly and stick to the asparagus, creating a golden, cheesy topping. For a burst of flavor, you can also add an extra sprinkle of parmesan right after the asparagus comes out of the air fryer while it’s still hot.
3. What To Serve With Air Fryer Asparagus?
Baked or Roasted Chicken
Chicken is a mild-flavored, lean protein that pairs wonderfully with the earthy and slightly sweet taste of roasted asparagus in air fryer. The crispy texture of roasted chicken skin complements the crisp tips of the asparagus.
Pan-Seared or Baked Steak
The rich, savory flavor of steak, such as ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, is perfectly complemented by the bright and tender asparagus. The combination of juicy steak and crispy asparagus creates a satisfying, hearty meal.
Salmon or Other Fish
Air fryer asparagus pairs beautifully with fish, especially fatty fish like salmon. The natural oils in the fish add richness, while the asparagus provides a fresh, slightly bitter contrast. The textures complement each other perfectly—tender fish and crispy asparagus.
Quinoa or Rice Pilaf
Grains like quinoa, rice pilaf, or couscous absorb the flavors of air fryer asparagus and add texture to the meal. This combination is ideal for creating a well-balanced, satisfying dish with both fiber and protein.
Eggs
The creamy richness of eggs—especially poached or fried with a runny yolk—pairs beautifully with air fryer asparagus. This combination makes for a light, yet satisfying meal, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
The air fryer transforms the spears into perfectly cooked delights with a satisfying crunch. The garlic-infused olive oil marinade adds a burst of flavor, while the Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously savory and cheesy coating. I hope that after reading this article, you knew how to cook asparagus in the air fryer properly at home.
