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Air fryer broccoli and cauliflower with a wooden spoon.

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

Simple, versatile broccoli and cauliflower roasted in the air fryer with a fresh lemon, thyme, and garlic vinaigrette. Ready in under 15 minutes, this is a perfect pairing for everything from steak to pasta to omelettes!
5 from 74 votes
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 178kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 5 ounces broccoli
  • 5 ounces cauliflower
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice see note 1
  • 1 clove garlic small
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme leaves fresh
  • kosher salt to salt

Instructions

  • Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into uniform 1-inch pieces. If using packaged, pre-cut vegetables, cut the larger pieces into small, uniform pieces. Some smaller pieces are fine - they will get browned and crunchy in the air fryer.
  • Create the vinaigrette. Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, thyme leaves, salt, and grate or mince the garlic and add into the mixture. Whisk or shake in a jar.
  • Coat the vegetables in the dressing.
  • Add the vegetables to the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking at the halfway point.
  • Remove from the basket and serve right away.

Notes

General
  1. For simply seasoned broccoli and cauliflower, omit the lemon, herbs, and garlic and just air fry with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. You can make this recipe with just broccoli or just cauliflower. No changes need to be made to the cooking time.
  3. For the best texture, be sure everything is in a single, even layer. Work in batches if needed.
Storage & Reheating
  1. Fridge Cool and then store leftovers in an airtight container, making sure to transfer to the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. It will last for 3 to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
  2. Freezer You can store cooled broccoli and cauliflower in freezer bags for 2 to 3 months. The vegetables will last longer if cooked without garlic or lemon.
  3. Reheating from Fridge For the best results, I recommend reheating this dish in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 2 to 3 minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven on a baking sheet for a few minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil, or in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. 
  4. Reheating from Frozen Place the frozen broccoli and cauliflower in the fridge overnight to thaw. Then follow the directions above.

Nutrition

Calories: 178kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 54mg | Potassium: 540mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 554IU | Vitamin C: 121mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 1mg