Air Fryer Broccolini

Air Fryer Broccolini is a speedy, tasty, healthful side dish that pairs wonderfully with everything from Grilled Flank Steak with Chile Butter to Miso Glazed Salmon.

With merely 4 ingredients, under 5 minutes of preparation, and 12 minutes in the air fryer, this Air Fryer Broccolini is extremely quick and straightforward to prepare. Despite using only a few ingredients, it is also bursting with flavor.

The air fryer makes it crunchy and delightful, with a slightly charred surface and a soft interior. Moreover, preparing it in the air fryer signifies it is lower in fats and calories compared to deep-fried alternatives, yet still brimming with taste. And of course, broccolini is rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and fiber.

I appreciate that this adaptable vegetable can be presented in multiple ways. It’s ideal as a basic side dish. Or incorporate it into noodles or fried rice, or crown a rice bowl with it for enhanced flavor, color, and texture!

Explore These Flavor Variations

One of the fantastic aspects of air fryer broccolini is its capacity to be seasoned in countless ways. Include your preferred herbs or spices—anything from minced garlic, garlic powder, and Italian seasonings to curry powder or Cajun spice blend—before cooking. Or top with parmesan cheese, lemon zest or juice, breadcrumbs, or crushed red pepper after it’s cooked.

For a slightly Asian flavor twist, drizzle a touch of soy sauce or fish sauce in place of lemon juice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped, dry-roasted peanuts.

And read my article Are Broccoli Stems Edible if you’re curious about how and why you ought to be utilizing all parts of the broccoli plant. Hint: It’s not solely the florets and stalks that are worth consuming.

What distinguishes broccolini, Chinese broccoli, and regular broccoli?

Broccolini is more tender than standard broccoli, featuring longer, slender stalks and less densely grouped florets. It is actually a hybrid formed by crossing Chinese broccoli and standard broccoli.

Broccolini is commonly referred to as “baby broccoli” and is slightly sweeter than regular broccoli as well. It works wonderfully as a standalone side dish and also serves as a delightful addition to stir-fries, soups, and noodle dishes.

Broccoli rabe, by the way, is a distinct vegetable that is more akin to turnips than to broccoli.

How to present it

Serve this broccolini alongside Air Fryer Roasted Chicken, Air Fryer Lamb Chops, Instant Pot Ham, or Instant Pot Char Siu.

If you enjoy making vegetables in the air fryer, check out these Air Fryer Mushrooms and Onions. Other excellent air fryer side dishes includes Air Fryer Elote, Air Fryer Zucchini Fries, Air Fryer Onion Rings, Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, or Air Fryer Butter Beans.