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How to Cook Asparagus In Air Fryer
FrankFrank

How To Cook Asparagus In Air Fryer In 10 Minutes

Quick air fryer asparagus with crisp-tender spears, simple seasoning, lemon, and optional Parmesan for an easy side dish in about 10 minutes.
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Prep Time 4 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 70
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus
  • 1 to 1.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 lemon cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan optional
Optional Add-ons
  • 1 to 2 slices bacon for bacon-wrapped variation
  • 1 drizzle honey optional
  • 1 pinch smoked paprika optional

Method
 

  1. Trim the woody ends from the asparagus by snapping one spear and using it as a guide for the rest.
  2. If the asparagus is very thick, peel the lower third with a vegetable peeler.
  3. Pat the asparagus dry well with paper towels.
  4. Toss the spears with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 2 to 3 minutes if desired.
  6. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer with only slight overlap.
  7. Air fry at 390°F for 6 to 8 minutes, tossing once at the 4-minute mark.
  8. Thin spears usually finish in about 6 minutes, while thick spears may need 8 to 9 minutes.
  9. Finish with lemon juice and optional Parmesan, then taste and adjust salt before serving.

Notes

  • Dry spears brown better, while wet spears steam.
  • Keep the oil light, because too much can make the tips greasy and less crisp.
  • A single layer gives better airflow and more even cooking.
  • Thin asparagus cooks faster than thick asparagus, so adjust by 1 to 3 minutes as needed.
  • Add Parmesan after cooking or in the last minute to avoid burning.
  • For frozen asparagus, cook in two stages: first to release moisture, then season and finish.
  • Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat best at 360°F for 2 to 3 minutes.
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