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Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli with Toasted Almonds

crispy air fryer broccoli - featured image

A quick and easy healthy recipe featuring crispy air-fried broccoli topped with nutty toasted almonds, perfect as a side or snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 300g), washed and trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt (coarse Maldon flakes preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds (about 30g), toasted
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and trim 4 cups (about 300g) of broccoli florets, cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry thoroughly to avoid steaming instead of crisping. (5 minutes)
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the broccoli with 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon sea salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. (3 minutes)
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
  4. Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking, until vibrant green with crispy, slightly charred edges. (10-12 minutes)
  5. While broccoli cooks, toast ¼ cup (30g) sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Alternatively, toast in the air fryer for 3 minutes at 350°F (175°C). (3-4 minutes)
  6. Transfer broccoli to a serving bowl. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top along with 1 teaspoon lemon zest and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if using. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Notes

Dry broccoli thoroughly before air frying to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Shake or stir broccoli halfway through cooking for even browning. Toast almonds carefully to avoid burning. Preheat the air fryer for best results. For extra crisp, spray a light mist of oil halfway through cooking. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer broccoli, crispy broccoli, toasted almonds, healthy snack, quick side dish, easy vegetable recipe, gluten-free, vegan