This air fryer recipe combines fresh green beans and asparagus for a quick and healthy side dish. The air fryer cooks the vegetables to perfection, making them crispy while retaining their vibrant color and nutrients.
With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a complement to any main course.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Healthy Side Dish
The combination of fresh green beans and asparagus creates a colorful and nutritious dish that can brighten up any meal. These vegetables are not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
Green beans are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, while asparagus offers a wealth of nutrients, including vitamin K and folate. Together, they provide a healthy boost that complements a variety of main courses.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Start by rinsing and trimming the green beans and asparagus to ensure they are ready for cooking.
Once prepped, toss the vegetables in a bowl with olive oil and your choice of seasonings. Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper enhance the flavor, while optional lemon zest adds a refreshing twist.
Air Frying for Perfect Crispiness
The air fryer is the star of this recipe, allowing the vegetables to achieve a delightful crispiness without excessive oil. Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking, while placing the vegetables in a single layer promotes optimal air circulation.
Cooking for just 8-10 minutes results in perfectly tender yet crispy green beans and asparagus. Shaking the basket halfway through helps achieve an even texture, making every bite satisfying.
Garnishing for Extra Flavor
Once the vegetables are cooked to perfection, the finishing touch is a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This adds a savory richness that elevates the dish, making it even more enjoyable.
Serving these air-fried green beans and asparagus immediately ensures that they retain their crispiness, making them a delightful addition to any plate.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant side dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Whether served alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty pasta, it complements a range of flavors.
For a complete meal, consider adding a grain like quinoa or brown rice, which can enhance the nutritional profile and provide a satisfying base for the vegetables.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
Each serving of this dish is low in calories, making it a guilt-free option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. With only 80 calories per serving, it fits well into various dietary plans.
The combination of fiber from the vegetables and healthy fats from the olive oil contributes to a feeling of fullness, making it a smart choice for weight management.
Easy Air Fryer Green Beans and Asparagus Recipe
This recipe features green beans and asparagus tossed in olive oil and seasonings, then air-fried until crispy. It takes about 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Rinse and trim the green beans and asparagus. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the green beans and asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: The vegetables should be crispy and tender. Adjust cooking time as needed based on your air fryer model.
- Serve: Remove the vegetables from the air fryer and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 80kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g