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Air Fryer Carrots with Parmesan and Dill: A Tasty and Healthy Delight

The air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. This innovative kitchen appliance allows you to prepare healthier versions of your favourite meals, all while keeping the delicious crispiness we crave. One dish that shines in the air fryer is Air Fryer Carrots with Parmesan and Dill. This simple yet flavourful recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the nuttiness of Parmesan and the fresh aroma of dill, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Why Choose Air Fryer Carrots?

Carrots are a versatile root vegetable boasting an array of health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, they support good vision, immune health, and skin integrity. When prepared in the air fryer, carrots develop a delightful caramelised exterior while retaining their natural crunch. Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier cooking option that still delivers on taste.

The Perfect Pairing: Parmesan and Dill

The addition of Parmesan cheese elevates these air-fried carrots to a whole new level. Its creamy richness complements the earthy flavour of the carrots beautifully. Dill, with its anise-like flavour, adds a refreshing touch that balances the dish perfectly, making it both savoury and aromatic. Together, these ingredients create a mouthwatering side dish that will impress even the most discerning palate.

Ingredients

To make Air Fryer Carrots with Parmesan and Dill, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 50g of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon of dried dill)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) to ensure even cooking.

2. Prepare the Carrots: In a large bowl, combine the carrot sticks with the olive oil, making sure they are well-coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Add Cheese and Dill: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and chopped dill over the carrots, tossing again to ensure even distribution.

4. Air Fry the Carrots: Place the coated carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

5. Check for Doneness: The carrots should be golden brown and tender when done. If they need more time, continue air frying in one-minute increments until they reach your desired level of doneness.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the carrots from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy them as a healthy snack.

Tips for Success

• Carrot Size: Try to cut your carrots into even sticks to ensure they cook uniformly. Thinner sticks will cook faster, so adjust your air frying time accordingly.
• Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is delightful, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different flavour profile.
• Herb Options: If you don’t have fresh dill, consider substituting with other herbs like parsley or thyme for a twist on the recipe.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Carrots with Parmesan and Dill is a simple yet sophisticated dish that showcases the wonders of air frying. It’s a fabulous way to enjoy nutritious vegetables without sacrificing flavour or texture. Perfect as a side dish for dinner or a standalone snack, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavours and the ease of preparation, making mealtime both healthy and satisfying!