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Air Fryer Broccolini: A Healthy Recipe!

In the quest for delicious yet nutritious side dishes, broccolini stands out as a favourite. With its tender stems and mild flavour, this vegetable is both versatile and easy to prepare. The good news is that using an air fryer to cook broccolini not only enhances its natural taste but also helps keep it healthy. This method retains the vibrant colour and nutrients while giving it a delightful crispiness. Here’s how to make air fryer broccolini that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why Choose Broccolini?

Broccolini is a hybrid vegetable, a cross between Chinese broccoli and broccoli. It boasts a more delicate flavour, smaller florets, and longer stems, making it a fantastic option for various dishes. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, this nutrient-dense vegetable also provides a healthy dose of fibre, antioxidants, and minerals. It’s low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Air Fryer Benefits

The air fryer is a modern kitchen marvel that allows you to achieve that coveted crispy texture without the excess oil associated with traditional frying methods. By circulating hot air around the food, the air fryer cooks evenly while retaining moisture. This not only cuts down on calories but also ensures that your meals are healthier without compromising on flavour.

Ingredients

To prepare air fryer broccolini for four servings, you will need:

• 300g of broccolini
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccolini

Begin by washing your broccolini thoroughly under running water. Trim the ends of the stems if necessary to remove any tough sections. If the stalks are particularly thick, you can cut them in half lengthwise for more uniform cooking.

Step 2: Season the Broccolini

In a large bowl, combine the broccolini with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure that the broccolini is evenly coated. If you prefer a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F). Preheating is essential for achieving the best results, as it ensures that the broccolini cooks evenly from the moment it goes in.

Step 4: Cook the Broccolini

Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the seasoned broccolini into the basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow the hot air to circulate effectively. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

Cook the broccolini for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. You want the broccolini to be tender yet crisp, with a lovely golden colour.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once cooked, remove the broccolini from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for an extra layer of flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer broccolini makes an excellent side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal. It can also be used as an ingredient in salads, pasta dishes, or grain bowls for a nutritious boost.

Conclusion

Air fryer broccolini is a simple, healthy recipe that takes just minutes to prepare and cook. Bursting with flavour and nutrition, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a quick side, reach for the broccolini and let your air fryer do the magic. Happy cooking!

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