This Easy Air Fryer Asparagus is the perfect no-fuss, quick side dish. Made with just a handful of ingredients, they are tender in the middle, crispy on the tops, and ready in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re needing an easy side for your weeknight dinner or holiday table, this recipe is a quick, healthy go-to that pairs with just about anything!
Why You'll Love this Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe:
- Quick & Easy – Just trim, toss, and air fry! This recipe comes together in under 15 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Healthy & Versatile – Naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with nutrients. Serve it with any protein or enjoy them as a quick mid day snack.
Air Fryer Asparagus Ingredients:
- Asparagus – Trim off the woody ends. Try to use spears that are similar in size for even cooking.
- Neutral Cooking Oil – Olive oil or avocado oil work well. Just enough to help the seasoning stick and crisp up the tips.
- Favorite seasoning – Garlic powder, lemon pepper, Italian seasoning, or a mix of your favorites. Totally customizable! I really like Cavender's All-Purpose Greek Seasoning. (The Salt-Free version is also gluten-free!)
- Salt & pepper – Start with a pinch of each and adjust to taste.
Optional Add-Ons & Variations:
- Parmesan – Add a sprinkle of shaved or grated Parmesan either after air frying or during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking for a golden, melty finish.
- Caesar-Style – Drizzle with Caesar dressing, then top with shaved Parmesan and a few crushed croutons or breadcrumbs for a fun salad-inspired side.
- Lemon Zest or Juice – A fresh squeeze or a bit of zest brightens the dish beautifully.
- Balsamic Glaze – A drizzle just before serving adds a slightly sweet, tangy finish.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning – For a bold, crunchy twist with savory, garlicky notes.
How to Make Asparagus in the Air Fryer:
- Step 1: Prep the Asparagus
- Rinse and pat dry the asparagus. Trim off the tough ends, a few inches from the bottom.
- Step 2: Season
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of oil, then sprinkle with your favorite seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Air Fry
- Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook time depends on the thickness of your asparagus:
- Thin spears: 6–8 minutes
- Medium spears: 8–10 minutes
- Thick spears: 10–12 minutes
- Step 4: Serve
- Serve warm, optionally topped with Parmesan, lemon, or your favorite finishing touch.
Tips for Making Air Fryer Asparagus:
- Choose Even Spears – Try to use asparagus that’s roughly the same thickness so it cooks evenly. If mixing sizes, remove thinner ones early.
- Use Just Enough Oil – A little oil goes a long way! Too much can make them soggy, while too little may dry them out.
Make Ahead & Storage:
- Make Ahead: You can trim the asparagus and toss it with oil and seasonings up to 1 day in advance. Store it covered in the fridge until ready to air fry.
- Storage: Store any leftover asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back into the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F until warmed through and slightly crisped.
Air Fryer Asparagus FAQ's:
The asparagus should be tender when pierced with a fork but still slightly crisp. The tops may look golden and crisp, perfect for added texture.
It depends on your model. Some air fryers recommend a preheat for best results, but it’s not always necessary. If skipping, just keep an eye on cook time and texture.
Yes, but it may come out softer and less crisp. For best results, thaw and pat dry before air frying, and adjust cooking time as needed.
Any neutral high-heat oil works well such as olive oil, avocado oil, or even canola oil. Just 1 tablespoon is enough to coat a bunch.
Definitely! As long as your air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded, you can cook asparagus alongside other quick-cooking items like shrimp or chicken tenders.
3 More Easy & Delicious Asparagus Recipes:
- Easy Asparagus and White Bean Salad with Pesto & Parmesan
- Quick & Easy Garlic Cream Sauce Ravioli with Asparagus and Mushrooms
- Fresh Spring Pasta Salad with Prosciutto & Honey-Lemon Dressing
Tried This Air Fryer Asparagus recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! ⭐ Please leave a star rating and review in the recipe card below—your feedback helps others discover this creamy, flavorful dish. Enjoy, and happy cooking! Follow me on Instagram and Pinterest for more delicious recipes, travel inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content.
Recipe
Easy Air Fryer Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus ends trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: favorite seasoning garlic powder, lemon pepper, Italian seasoning, etc.
Instructions
Prep the Asparagus:
- Wash and trim the woody ends off the asparagus. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Season:
- In a bowl or directly in the air fryer basket, toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasoning.
Air Fry:
- Place asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the stalks. Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crisping.
Serve:
- Enjoy hot, optionally topped with Parmesan, lemon juice, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Notes
- Storage Tip: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to revive the texture.
- Nutritional Information is an estimate only and will vary according to specific ingredients and amounts used.
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