Thanksgiving is a time for indulging in hearty dishes, and what better way to elevate your feast than with a selection of delicious sides prepared in an air fryer? Not only are these recipes quick and easy, but they also promise to deliver that crispy, golden finish we all crave.

Imagine serving up air-fried Brussels sprouts, perfectly charred and tossed with a zesty balsamic glaze. Or envision fluffy garlic mashed potatoes, whipped to perfection, accented by the subtle crunch of air-fried shallots on top. For something a touch different, try air-fried sweet potato wedges, sprinkled with a hint of cinnamon and served with a maple dip.

Other delightful options include classic cheese-stuffed mushrooms, lightly crisped to maintain their juicy filling, and roasted root vegetables that caramelise beautifully without the need for a vat of oil. Whether it's crispy green bean fries or flavour-packed cornbread bites, these 20 air fryer Thanksgiving sides will delight your guests and leave them asking for seconds, all while keeping your kitchen fuss-free and your cooking time to a minimum. Embrace the convenience and creativity of the air fryer this festive season, and watch your Thanksgiving spread shine!

Indulge in the delightful flavours of Easy Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms, an ideal dish for any occasion. Large, plump portobello mushrooms serve as the perfect vessels, their earthy taste complementing a scrumptious filling of sautéed onions, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. Combined with ingredients such as quinoa or breadcrumbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, these morsels not only burst with flavour but also offer a satisfying texture. Simply bake until golden and serve warm, allowing the enticing aroma to waft through your kitchen, enticing everyone to the table. Perfect as a starter for dinner parties or a wholesome snack, these stuffed mushrooms are sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Homemade tempura batter is delightfully simple and requires just three ingredients, making it a convenient option for a quick meal or snack. To create the perfect light and crispy coating, you'll need plain flour, cold sparkling water, and a pinch of salt. The sparkling water introduces air into the batter, resulting in a wonderfully airy texture when fried. Begin by mixing the flour and salt together, then gradually whisk in the cold sparkling water until you achieve a smooth consistency. It's important to keep the batter cold to ensure the best results. This easy recipe not only enhances a variety of vegetables or seafood but also brings an authentic taste of Japan to your kitchen. Enjoy your delicious tempura with a side of dipping sauce for a real treat!

Indulge in the delightful simplicity of these sweet and spicy air fryer cauliflower wings, perfect for a light snack or as a crowd-pleasing starter. Tossed in a vibrant blend of spices and lightly coated with a rich BBQ sauce, these cauliflower bites are crisped to perfection in your air fryer, ensuring a satisfying crunch without the excessive oil. With a hint of sweetness balanced by a subtle kick of spice, each bite delivers a burst of flavour that’s both comforting and exciting. Serve them up with a side of cooling ranch dip or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch. Whether it's game night or a casual get-together, these cauliflower wings are bound to impress!

Corn ribs are a delightful and easy vegetarian recipe that brings a burst of flavour to your kitchen. Perfect for a summer barbecue or as a vibrant side dish, these mouth-watering treats are made by cutting fresh corn cobs into quarters, resembling the shape of traditional ribs.

To prepare, simply toss the corn with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and your choice of spices—smoked paprika and garlic powder work wonderfully. Grill or roast them until they’re golden and slightly charred, allowing the natural sweetness of the corn to shine through.

Serve with a zesty lime wedge and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavour. Not only are corn ribs an irresistible snack, but they’re also a fantastic way to celebrate seasonal produce. Enjoy this simple yet scrumptious dish that’s sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike!

Vegan chicken nuggets have emerged as a delightful alternative for those seeking plant-based options without compromising on taste. Made primarily from ingredients like pea protein, potatoes, and a medley of spices, these nuggets are designed to mimic the crispy, savoury goodness of traditional chicken nuggets. When baked or fried to golden perfection, they offer a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. Perfect for a quick meal or as a party snack, vegan chicken nuggets can be paired with a variety of dips, from tangy BBQ sauce to creamy vegan mayo. Not only do they cater to vegans and vegetarians, but they also appeal to anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption while still enjoying comforting, familiar flavours.

If you're looking for a hearty and wholesome vegetarian dinner, Air Fryer Baked Stuffed Zucchini is a delightful option. This dish showcases fresh courgettes, hollowed out and filled with a tantalising mixture of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The air fryer ensures that the zucchini retains its tenderness while achieving a lovely golden finish on top.

To prepare, simply slice the courgettes in half lengthwise and scoop out the centre to create a cavity for the filling. Toss your cooked quinoa with diced tomatoes, herbs like basil or parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavour. Stuff each courgette half generously, dot with feta, and cook in the air fryer for around 10-15 minutes.

The result is a perfectly cooked meal that's not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Serve with a crisp side salad or some warm crusty bread for a fulfilling vegetarian dinner that will leave everyone wanting more. This dish exemplifies how simple ingredients can come together to create something utterly satisfying and delicious.

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:

1. 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.

2. Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.

3. 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.

4. 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.