In this section, you'll find recipe ideas, suggestions for additional ingredients, alternative substitutions, various variations, instructions for storing leftover asparagus, and guidelines for reheating it.

 

Recipe tips 

  Asparagus Cooking Tips  

• Use fresh asparagus.
• Cut the asparagus into small pieces.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Cook in batches if needed.
• Check for doneness.

  Cooking Times  

• Thin asparagus: 6-7 minutes at 370°F
• Medium asparagus: 8-10 minutes at 370°F
• Thick asparagus: 9-11 minutes at 370°F

  Be sure to check the asparagus halfway through cooking to prevent overcooking. If it’s not at your desired crispness you can cook it again for another minute or two.   Air Fryer Directions  

• Follow your manufacturer's directions.
• Cooking time and temperatures may vary by model.
• Some air fryers need to be preheated, while others do not.

  Tips for Crispness  

• Pierce the asparagus with a fork or taste a piece to check for doneness.
• If it's not crispy or tender enough, cook it for a few more minutes.

 

Additions/Substitutions/Variations

  Cooking is a creative and personal experience. If you're looking to add your own touch to this recipe, check out these recipe additions, substitutions, and variations.  

Recipe additions

  Here are some suggestions to make your air fried asparagus even more special:  

• Bacon: Add bacon pieces before air frying for a savory and smoky flavor. Alternatively, wrap asparagus spears with bacon pieces before air frying.
• Lemon juice: Add fresh lemon juice just before serving for a citrusy flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Add salt and pepper before air frying to enhance the natural flavors of the asparagus.
• Paprika: Add paprika for a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herbs: Add herbs like cilantro, basil, oregano, rosemary, or thyme for their own unique flavor profiles.
• Vegan Parmesan cheese: Add vegan grated Parmesan cheese before or after air frying for a nutty, salty, and slightly sharp flavor.

  The sky’s the limit when it comes to flavoring air-fried asparagus.

 

Recipe substitutions

  If you can't find certain ingredients, here are some substitutions for an air-fried asparagus recipe:  

• Asparagus: green beans, broccoli florets, brussels sprouts, zucchini slices
• Oil: If you don't have extra virgin olive oil, use avocado, walnut, coconut, or vegan butter. Consider the smoke point of the oil if you are air frying at a high temperature.
• Garlic: If you don't have fresh garlic, use 3 tbsp of fresh chives, 4 scallions, or 1 tsp of onion powder.
• Dill: If you don't have dried dill, use 1 tbsp of fresh dill, parsley, or chives.
• Garlic powder: If you don't have garlic powder, use 1.5 tsp of onion powder, 2.5 tsp of paprika, 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper, or 1 tsp of cumin.

  If you use another veggie use these cooking times at 370°F:   

• 8-10 minutes for green beans
• 10-12 minutes for broccoli
• 15-20 minutes for Brussels sprouts
• 10-12 minutes for zucchini

  Remember all substitutions will affect the texture and taste of the recipe.

 

Recipe variations

 

• Sweeten it up by adding a tablespoon or two of balsamic vinegar to the seasoning before air frying.
• Infuse more aroma by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives.
• Spice things up with a kick of Sriracha sauce before frying.
• Enhance the flavor profile by including additional vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or zucchini (adding all these additional veggies will take 15 to 20 minutes to cook in the air fryer)

  Keep in mind that these variations will impact the flavor and may require adjustments to the cooking time, especially when adding more vegetables.  

How to store the recipe

  The best way to store asparagus is to keep it in the fridge or freezer.   

• To store cooked asparagus in the fridge, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. It will stay good for about 3-4 days.
• To store cooked asparagus in the freezer, place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 6 months.

  To make the recipe ahead of time, prep the ingredients and place them in a container with a lid. Mix with the seasonings, seal the container, and refrigerate for 3-4 days. When you're ready to cook, take it out of the fridge and air fry as directed.  

How to reheat leftovers

  You can reheat your asparagus leftovers in the regular/toaster oven, air fryer, and on the stove:  

• In the oven/toaster oven: preheat the oven to 375°F and cook for 5-8 minutes.
• In the air fryer: cook at 370°F for 3-5 minutes.
• On the stovetop: heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of olive oil and cook for 3-5 minutes.

  Or don’t bother reheating and enjoy it cold. Eat it cold as a snack or in a salad.  

Nutritional Information

  Nutritional information is estimated using Nutrifox nutrition label maker*