Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus

Air fryer roasted asparagus is the ultimate quick and healthy side dish! With just a few simple ingredients, this vibrant green veggie turns into a tender, flavorful treat in minutes. Perfect for pairing with any meal, this recipe is your go-to for a low-carb, keto-friendly option that’s packed with vitamins and a light crunch.

Tossed with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, this recipe for air fryer roasted asparagus is so simple to make! This roasted asparagus is not only delicious but also provides the perfect light crunch!

Healthy Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus

Full of vitamins A + C as well as a bunch of fiber, asparagus is known to be one of the most healthy vegetables out there. Plus, asparagus is visually appealing too! When properly cooked, an elegant spear of asparagus will have a bright green color that adds the perfect pop of color on any plate you serve it on.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 13 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute side dishes. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy a healthy vegetable.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, asparagus is a powerhouse veggie that supports a healthy lifestyle. Cooking it in the air fryer enhances its flavor without compromising its nutritional benefits.
• Perfect Texture Every Time: The air fryer ensures the asparagus cooks evenly with a slightly crispy exterior and tender interior. Say goodbye to mushy spears and hello to perfect roasted asparagus!
• Versatile Side Dish: Asparagus pairs beautifully with almost any meal. From breakfast omelets to elegant dinners, this recipe fits seamlessly into your menu.
• Customizable Flavors: Add Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or your favorite spices to tailor this dish to your taste. It’s the ideal base for endless culinary creativity.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus

• Asparagus – The star of the show, providing a tender yet slightly crisp texture when roasted.
• Olive Oil – Adds a rich, subtle flavor and helps the asparagus roast evenly in the air fryer.
• Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the asparagus.
• Pepper – Adds a touch of mild heat and rounds out the seasoning.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

If you haven’t liked cooked asparagus in the past, you might now. By cooking it in the air fryer, you are helping the asparagus get rid of some of that bitterness it tends to have when eaten raw. It’s also less likely to come out mushy as it’s very easy to overcook asparagus!

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus

• Air Fryer: Essential for achieving perfectly roasted asparagus with a slightly crispy texture.
• Cutting Board: Provides a sturdy surface for trimming the asparagus.
• Knife: Used to cut off the tough ends of the asparagus spears.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing the asparagus with oil and seasonings.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

If you want to take this side dish up a notch, take a look at this bacon-wrapped asparagus recipe. Crispy, thick-cut bacon, wrapped around a bundle of roasted asparagus is definitely one of my favorite ways to eat this veggie!

You can also finish them off with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese as soon as it’s done roasting to serve on the side with a plate of pasta.

Other Ways To Cook Asparagus

No air fryer? No problem at all!

You can still make some roasted asparagus- just use your oven instead! Using the same recipe, follow these instructions to make roasted asparagus spears in the oven so you can make it next time you have a bundle on hand.

If you have an instant pot, I recommend trying this Instant Pot steamed asparagus recipe that can be ready in less than 5 minutes!

You can’t go wrong with whichever way you decide to cook them.

How To Air Fry Asparagus

Before you start to cook the asparagus, make sure to rinse them under cool water and pat them dry beforehand.

To finish cleaning them off, cut off about an inch off the tough ends of each spear and throw them away. Another way you can do this is by holding the asparagus by each end and bending it until a piece of it snaps off naturally.

Place all of the clean asparagus in a bowl and toss with some drizzled olive oil and pinch of salt and pepper.

Then put the asparagus at the bottom of the air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes at 400F, shaking the basket halfway through.

What To Serve With Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus is such a versatile veggie- it tastes good with almost everything and works well to eat at any time of the day!

For breakfast, you add some this asparagus to an omelet with some potatoes and cheese.

For lunch, you can serve this ‘fried’ asparagus on top of a shrimp quinoa bowl for an extra boost in veggies.

For dinner, serve it has a healthy side dish option with a lean piece of protein such as a roasted chicken or roast beef.

In short, anytime you eat it..air fryer roasted asparagus is so good!

Tips For Success

• Choose Fresh Asparagus: Look for firm, bright green spears with closed tips. Avoid stalks that are limp or have a wrinkled appearance for the best texture and flavor.
• Prep Thoroughly: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus to avoid chewy or woody bites. Using the snap method ensures you only use the tender parts of the spears.
• Season Generously: While salt and pepper are classic, feel free to add garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. Toss the asparagus well to ensure even seasoning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate evenly and ensures each spear roasts perfectly.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Depending on the thickness of the spears, the cooking time may vary slightly. Thin spears might need just 6-7 minutes, while thicker ones may require a minute or two more.
• Shake the Basket: Shaking the basket halfway through cooking ensures even roasting and prevents some spears from being undercooked or overcooked.
• Serve Immediately: Roasted asparagus tastes best right out of the air fryer when it’s warm and perfectly crisp-tender.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add a Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the asparagus right after air frying. The warmth from the asparagus will slightly melt the cheese, adding a creamy, savory touch.
• Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle lemon zest after cooking for a refreshing, tangy flavor. Perfect for pairing with seafood dishes!
• Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, toss the asparagus with red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika before cooking. It’s a great way to add a kick to this simple side.
• Herbaceous Notes: Add dried or fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the mix. They complement the asparagus and bring extra depth of flavor.
• Garlic Lovers: Mince or thinly slice garlic and toss it with the asparagus before roasting. The garlic roasts alongside the asparagus, adding aromatic, caramelized bites.
• Switch the Oil: Olive oil is classic, but you can experiment with avocado oil, sesame oil, or even a touch of butter for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Make It Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a touch of honey or balsamic glaze over the roasted asparagus for a delightful sweet-savory balance.
• Keto and Low-Carb Enhancements: Wrap individual spears with a thin slice of bacon or prosciutto before cooking. The fat renders beautifully in the air fryer, creating a crispy coating around the asparagus.
• Vegan Cheese Option: Sprinkle nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly, cheesy flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover roasted asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the asparagus has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make it soggy.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: To bring back the crispiness, reheat the asparagus in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. This method ensures it stays slightly crispy and doesn’t become mushy.
• Reheating in the Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave the asparagus for 30-60 seconds. While it won’t retain its crispness, it will still be flavorful.
• Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the asparagus on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This method helps maintain its texture better than microwaving.
• Freezing (Optional): While fresh asparagus is best, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Spread the cooked asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat as desired, but note that the texture may change slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Simply follow the same steps, but add an additional 2-3 minutes to the cooking time. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. Frozen asparagus may have a slightly softer texture compared to fresh asparagus.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

No, there’s no need to preheat the air fryer for this recipe. The asparagus will roast beautifully starting in a cold air fryer, making this recipe even easier to prepare.

How do I know when the asparagus is done?

The asparagus is done when it turns a vibrant green and is fork-tender with slightly crispy tips. You can adjust the cooking time depending on whether you prefer it more tender or with a crunch.

What if my asparagus spears are very thick or very thin?

Thicker spears may need 1-2 extra minutes of cooking, while thinner spears might cook in 6-7 minutes. Keep an eye on the asparagus and check for your desired texture.

Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer?

Absolutely! Pair the asparagus with quick-cooking vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or bell peppers. Just ensure they’re cut to a similar size for even cooking.

Is there a way to make this recipe lower in fat?

You can reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon or use a light cooking spray instead. The asparagus will still roast nicely and maintain a great texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but be cautious not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to ensure proper air circulation and even roasting.

How can I make this a complete meal?

Serve the roasted asparagus with a lean protein like grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, along with a side of rice or quinoa. You can also use it as a topping for pasta or salads.

What other seasonings work well with asparagus?

Aside from salt and pepper, try garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. For a zestier flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice or lemon zest works wonders.

More Healthy Air Fryer Recipes

If you loved this simple ‘fried’ asparagus recipe, check out some of my other air fryer recipes!

These are some of my current veggie go-to’s:

• Roasted Mushrooms In The Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Keto Zucchini Fries With No Breading
• ‘Fried’ Roasted Sweet Potatoes

See also:

• Air Fryer Roasted Peppers
• Air Fryer Baked Apples
• Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower