Crispy Parmesan Air-Fried Broccoli: A Simple and Tasty Treat
Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. One standout recipe that showcases the best of air fryer cooking is charred broccoli with a parmesan crust and a hint of balsamic vinegar. Whether you are looking for a side dish, a main course, or just a delicious snack, this easy-to-make recipe promises to deliver incredible taste with minimal effort. Let’s delve into the steps and techniques needed to create this crispy, nutty-flavored masterpiece that is sure to impress.
Preparing the Broccoli
Begin with two medium to large heads of broccoli. Stand them up and trim around the core to remove the florets. Ensure they are all uniform in size for even cooking. Once trimmed, deal with the stems by cutting off the woody parts and peeling off any bitter outer layers. Consistency in size is key for optimal cooking.
Garlic and Seasoning
Next, prepare three cloves of garlic by creating a paste using a microplane. This allows the garlic to coat the broccoli evenly. Add the garlic to the broccoli along with 20 grams of freshly grated parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional). Season with salt and 15 cracks of black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil before adding the seasoned broccoli. Set the air fryer to manual and cook at 190°C for 10 to 12 minutes. After 5 to 6 minutes, pause to shake the basket, ensuring even cooking. Resume cooking for the remaining time.
Finishing Touches
Once cooking is complete, open the air fryer and sprinkle additional parmesan if desired. Stir slightly and return to the air fryer for another 5 minutes. Upon completion, transfer the broccoli to a mixing bowl, drizzling with extra virgin olive oil, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for added flavor. The result is a crispy, charred broccoli that’s ready to be enjoyed.
Conclusion
This crispy, nutty-flavored treat combines the ease of air frying with the rich flavors of parmesan and balsamic. It’s not just simple and tasty but also budget-friendly. Enjoy this delicious dish as a healthful side or a stand-alone snack. If you liked this recipe, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more culinary adventures!
