Air frying vegetables is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce with a delicious twist! The vegetables come out warm, crispy, and packed with flavor. This method is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Vegetables

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a simple, nutritious side dish. It’s super easy to prepare with everyday ingredients you likely have in your home. Plus, it’s family-friendly; even the pickiest eaters will love the tender, caramelized bites. The cooking time is quick, so you can have a delicious vegetable medley ready in no time.

How to Make Air Fryer Vegetables

Making air fryer vegetables is straightforward and fun! You just need to chop a few veggies, toss them in seasoning, and let the air fryer do its magic. It’s that easy!

What You Need

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, and thyme)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step

Begin by washing and drying all the vegetables thoroughly.
Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red and yellow bell peppers, and slice the zucchini.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the seasonings.
Add all the prepared vegetables to the bowl and toss them in the seasoned olive oil until they are evenly coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Arrange the vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking.
Air fry the vegetables for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Check for doneness; the vegetables should be tender and slightly charred at the edges.
Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
Optional: sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot vegetables for an added layer of flavor.
Serve immediately as a side dish or on top of grains for a complete meal.

How to Serve Air Fryer Vegetables

These air-fried veggies make a lovely side dish for grilled chicken or fish. You can also pile them on top of rice or quinoa for a nutritious bowl meal. They pair beautifully with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Enjoy them for lunch or dinner, or even add them to a salad for a delightful crunch.

How to Store Air Fryer Vegetables

To store your leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave or give them a quick toss in the air fryer to restore some crispiness.

Recipe Tips

Cut evenly: Make sure all the veggies are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd: Air fry in batches if necessary to allow hot air to circulate.
Check halfway: Give the basket a shake halfway through to promote even browning.
Adjust seasonings: Feel free to add spices according to your taste.
Serve with dips: Great with hummus or ranch for extra flavor.

Variations & Swaps

Leafy Greens: Add spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.
Sweet Addition: Toss in some sweet corn for a pop of sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.

FAQs

Can I make these vegetables ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and toss them with the seasoning a few hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Air frying fresh will yield a better texture than reheating previously cooked veggies.

What if I have leftovers? Can I freeze them?
While it’s best to enjoy air-fried vegetables fresh, you can freeze them after cooking. Spread the cooled vegetables on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for about a month.

How do I reheat them?
To reheat, use the air fryer at a low temperature (around 300°F). This helps restore their original crispiness. You can also use a microwave, but they might lose some texture.

Can I substitute any of the vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite veggies. Carrots, asparagus, or eggplant all work nicely, too. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have varied cooking times.

What’s a good dip or sauce to serve with these?
A light ranch dressing, tzatziki, or even a splash of lemon juice can elevate the flavors. You could also drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze for sweetness.