Best Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower Recipe

One of my favorite ways to prepare veggies also requires a hot oven. And in the summer, turning on a hot oven does not always sound super appealing. In summertime, I love finding alternate ways to cook vegetables.

Which leads me to pulling out my trusty air fryer a lot when the weather is hot. Using this appliance takes the heat out of the kitchen and honestly, it takes a huge burden from my shoulders when trying to get food on the dinner table.

I adore how it so easy to throw a humble veggie or two into an air fryer with limited seasonings and they always turn out perfectly delicious, ready to accompany any meal. Enjoy this simple, yummy dish!

Broccoli – Use a head of fresh broccoli (cut into florets) for best results. If using frozen, add 2 minutes to the cook time and do not defrost before cooking.

Cauliflower – Use one head of cauliflower (cut into florets) for best results. If using frozen cauliflower, add 2 minutes to the cook time. No need to thaw before cooking.

Olive oil – Use equal amounts any type of oil (such as coconut oil) or butter as a replacement. To decrease calories in the recipe, use an olive oil spray to coat the veggies so you’re only using a small amount of oil.

Sea salt and black pepper – A simple sprinkle of salt and pepper will work wonders on the flavor of this side dish, but consider adding other seasonings or fresh herbs to the mix before cooking.

Step 1

Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small pieces.

Step 2

Pour half of the olive oil into the air fryer basket or inner pot of an air fryer and add cauliflower and broccoli florets in an even layer. Toss so the broccoli and cauliflower are well coated. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the tops.

Step 3

Cook at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes.

Repeat this same process with remaining ingredients. Enjoy immediately!

• Seasoning options, above and beyond salt and pepper: Cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, cumin, thyme, Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, chives, basil or cilantro.
• If desired, combine all ingredients in a large bowl to ensure veggies get evenly coated before adding to the air fryer tray in a single layer.
• Add fresh garlic or 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder or onion powder to the mix, if desired.
• For extra crispy broccoli and cauli, increase the cook time to 12 minutes.
• Sprinkling Parmesan cheese (shaved or grated!), pesto sauce or cheese sauce over the top before serving will add a yummy touch to the final dish.
• To add freshness, sprinkle lemon juice into the air fryer before cooking. A teaspoon or so of lemon zest will work wonders, as well!

• Serve alongside a Rotisserie chicken for a super simple and easy meal.
• Store in the fridge for easy sides, snacks or a healthy lunch option as you move through your week. Veggies are the perfect meal prep recipe!
• Toss them with your next salad for an extra bit of crunch and flavor.
• I love veggies when added to a bowl of Ramen noodles! This completely transforms an otherwise kinda boring meal into a dish packed with color and flavor.
• Serve alongside any main courses such as pork chops, meatloaf, chicken alfredo or ham.

• Broccoli Cheese Soup
• Roasted Broccoli
• One Pan Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
• Eggs and Veggies
• Cauliflower Fried Rice
• Whole30 Cauliflower Stuffing

Cauliflower is a great substitute for broccoli, having a similar floret shape and texture.

Once cooked, broccoli will stay fresh when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.

Place broccoli in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 6 months.

Raw broccoli will stay fresh when stored properly in a crisper drawer in the refrigerator for up to one week.

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• Frozen Salmon