Air fryer butternut squash is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional roasting methods. To prepare, simply peel and chop the squash into evenly sized cubes, ensuring they cook uniformly. Toss the pieces in a splash of olive oil, along with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs – perhaps a pinch of thyme or a dusting of smoked paprika for added depth.
Preheat your air fryer to around 200 degrees Celsius, then pop the squash in for about 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure an even crisp. The result is perfectly caramelised golden nuggets that are tender on the inside yet crisp on the outside. Serve them as an impressive side dish, toss them into a salad, or enjoy them as a snack drizzled with a bit of balsamic glaze. This simple recipe captures the essence of autumnal flavours while offering a nutritious and satisfying treat.
Air Fryer Broccoli Recipe
For a quick and healthy side dish, try making air fryer broccoli. This simple recipe allows the florets to achieve that perfect crispiness while retaining their vibrant green colour and nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 300g broccoli, trimmed into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Broccoli: Begin by washing the broccoli and cutting it into bite-sized florets. Pat them dry with a tea towel to ensure they roast properly.
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Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
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Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). Place the seasoned broccoli in the fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Finish and Serve: Once the broccoli is tender with crispy edges, remove it from the air fryer. If you're feeling indulgent, sprinkle over some grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavour. Serve warm as a delightful accompaniment to your favourite main dish.
Enjoy your air-fried broccoli—it's a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of colour and nutrition to your plate!
In her latest piece, Lauren McNeill, RD, MPH, explores the delightful world of air fryer tofu nuggets, merging nutrition with flavour in a truly innovative way. McNeill emphasises that these nuggets are not only a delicious alternative to traditional fried snacks but also a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them a healthy option for all.
Using firm tofu as the base, she recommends pressing the tofu prior to cooking to achieve a firmer texture, allowing the nuggets to crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. By marinating the tofu in a blend of soy sauce, garlic powder, and a splash of sesame oil, she infuses robust flavour while keeping the dish wholesome. With a light coating of breadcrumbs and a quick cook in the air fryer, these tofu nuggets emerge golden and crunchy, ready to delight young and old alike.
McNeill's recipe not only meets the cravings for something savoury and satisfying but also champions a nutritious lifestyle, perfect for anyone seeking healthier alternatives without compromising on taste. Whether enjoyed as a snack, in a salad, or paired with a dipping sauce, these air fryer tofu nuggets are set to become a staple in every health-conscious kitchen.
Indulge in a comforting dish of Cheesy Chicken, Spinach, and Artichoke Lasagna, where layers of tender pasta embrace a creamy mixture of succulent chicken and vibrant spinach, all interspersed with marinated artichokes. This delightful lasagna is generously smothered in a rich cheese sauce, creating a velvety texture that melts beautifully in the mouth. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of nutty parmesan and fresh herbs, adding a burst of flavour that elevates each comforting bite. Perfect for a family gathering or a cosy evening at home, this lasagna promises to warm hearts and satisfy appetites with its delectable combination of ingredients.
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Air Fryer Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers. These vibrant little vegetables, with their glossy skin and sweet crunch, provide the perfect vessel for a rich and creamy filling. To prepare, simply blend a generous amount of cream cheese with herbs like chives and dill, perhaps adding a dash of garlic powder for an extra kick.
Once the mixture is ready, stuff each mini pepper generously, ensuring they’re filled to the brim. Place them in the air fryer for about 10 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften while the filling becomes wonderfully warm and slightly golden. The result is a tantalising treat that’s perfect for sharing as a starter or enjoying as a snack. With their combination of textures and flavours, these air-fried gems are sure to impress friends and family alike at your next gathering.
Indulge in the delightful crunch of Best Healthy Air Fryer Crispy Roasted Cauliflower Bites, a guilt-free snack perfect for any occasion. This vibrant dish takes fresh cauliflower florets, tosses them in a light coating of olive oil, and seasons them with a blend of aromatic spices to elevate their natural flavour. As they cook in the air fryer, the heat crisps the outside while keeping the inside tender, resulting in a moreish bite that's full of texture and taste. Serve them up as a moreish appetiser, a nutritious side, or a healthy nibble for those afternoon cravings. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe transforms humble cauliflower into a star player on your dining table.
Crispy Fried Lentil Patties Recipe
These delightful crispy fried lentil patties, also known as lentil fritters or “dal ke bhajiye,” are a perfect vegetarian snack or a light meal option. With their golden-brown exterior and soft, flavourful interior, they’re sure to impress both family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 200g red lentils (masoor dal), soaked for 2 hours
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 green chilli, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 100g breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Method:
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Begin by draining the soaked lentils and rinsing them well. Place them in a food processor and pulse until they form a coarse paste. Be careful not to over-blend; a bit of texture is desired.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the lentil paste with the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, green chilli, coriander, cumin seeds, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
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Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into flat patties. Once formed, coat each patty lightly in breadcrumbs for that extra crunch.
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Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd. Fry until they are golden brown on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the patties from the oil and drain on kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot with a tangy chutney or a cooling yoghurt dip for a delightful treat.
Enjoy the crispiness and robust flavours of these lentil patties – perfect for a cosy gathering or simply as a tasty snack!
The air fryer has revolutionised the way we prepare festive meals, and this year, the air fryer turkey crown is the star of the show. Imagine succulent, juicy turkey, perfectly cooked and delightfully crisp on the outside, all without the fuss of traditional roasting. Simply season the crown with a blend of herbs—rosemary, thyme, and a touch of garlic—and drizzle with olive oil.
Preheat your air fryer, then place the turkey crown inside, ensuring there's ample space for the hot air to circulate around it. In a matter of hours, you’ll have a dish that not only looks impressive but also boasts tender meat that practically falls off the bone. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables and your favourite cranberry sauce for a mouth-watering centrepiece that will have your guests asking for seconds. The beauty of the air fryer is that it allows you to enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience, leaving you with more time to savour the festivities.
Fried asparagus with spicy mayo dip is a delightful fusion of flavours that elevates this seasonal vegetable to new heights. The asparagus spears are expertly battered and fried until golden brown, achieving a perfect balance of crispiness on the outside while maintaining a tender bite within. The pièce de résistance is the accompanying spicy mayonnaise dip, which combines creamy richness with a delightful kick of heat. This dish not only makes for a tempting appetiser but also serves as a delightful accompaniment to a variety of mains. Whether served at a casual gathering or as a gourmet starter, fried asparagus with spicy mayo dip is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and bold flavours.
Air Fryer Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Elevate your culinary experience with these delightful air fryer stuffed tomatoes. Perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this recipe showcases the freshness of garden tomatoes, beautifully filled with a savoury mixture of herbs, cheese, and grains.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 150g quinoa or couscous
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
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Begin by cooking the quinoa or couscous according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
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While the grains are cooking, slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the insides using a spoon. Reserve the pulp for later use.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa or couscous, crumbled feta, red onion, garlic, and a generous handful of chopped herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
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Gently fold in the reserved tomato pulp to incorporate it into the filling.
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Stuff each hollowed tomato generously with the mixture and replace the tops to create a charming presentation.
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Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F). Arrange the stuffed tomatoes in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
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Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is golden and bubbling.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired. Enjoy this fresh and flavourful dish that showcases the best of summer produce!
With minimal fuss and maximum flavour, these air fryer stuffed tomatoes are sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy!