Broccoli is tossed in a simple seasoning of oil, garlic powder, a dash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper. But roasted broccoli is not limited to this seasoning, it’s really versatile. Add your own favorite seasoning to it. Serve it as a side dish or toss it in pasta, salads, etc. But over a period of time, I developed a taste for it. My favorite way of roasting broccoli is to blanch it and then use a cast iron pan to roast it in high heat. Once you see charred marks on it and the broccoli is just cooked. Overcooked mushy broccoli is not that appetizing. But after I tried this Air Fryer version, I am impressed. I mean it just takes 10-15 minutes, half the time you need to make in an oven. Now there is no looking back. While I cook dinner, pop some florets into the air fryer basket. Another of our favorite side dishes where broccoli is the start is this Broccoli with Garlic Sauce.
How To Cut (Prep) Broccoli?
Cutting and prepping Broccoli is not a big deal. But I thought of sharing a few helpful tips.
Picking up good broccoli – Always look for bright green florets. It should be firm and fresh. The base of the stem should be firm and green(not soft and yellow). Always use Broccoli when it is still fresh, basically within 2-3 days. After a couple of days, it starts to develop a strange smell, which at least I don’t like. Using a knife cut the stem part and then cut it into medium florets. Make sure the florets are of the same size, so they get cooked evenly. Clean florets well to get rid of any dust. I usually dip the florets in lukewarm water for about 10 minutes. Drain the florets really well in a colander, for crispy broccoli.
Curried Roasted Broccoli: Toss it with oil, 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt to taste. Asian: A teaspoon of low sodium Soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Garlic Parmesan: Toss with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, Garlic Powder, 4 tablespoons grated parmesan, and pepper.
Curried Roasted Broccoli: Toss it with oil, 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt to taste. Asian: A teaspoon of low sodium Soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Garlic Parmesan: Toss with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, Garlic Powder, 4 tablespoons grated parmesan, and pepper.
Can we cook Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli?
Frozen Broccoli florets will have a lot of water content. You might have to adjust the time for the right amount of doneness. But using frozen broccoli directly in the Airfryer is a convenience for sure.
Making it ahead
You can roast broccoli in Airfryer and refrigerate it for a couple of days in an airtight container. But the florets might lose their crispiness when stored, nonetheless, the taste remains intact.
