Name: Air Fryer Broccolini (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb)
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 11 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz. fresh broccolini (1 bunch); 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil; 1-1/2 tablespoons white miso paste (optional); 1 teaspoon minced garlic (2 cloves); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; red pepper flakes, lemon zest or sesame seeds (optional garnishes)

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Air fryer broccolini is a quick, healthy and delicious side dish with so much flavor! Just a few basic ingredients come together to create tender broccolini stalks with slightly charred florets. A savory miso seasoning and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice elevate the sweet, earthy flavor of the broccolini.

Air fryer broccolini on a white plate with lemon.

You'll love this easy air fryer broccolini recipe! It's a healthy side dish that is so versatile. Use your favorite seasonings and modify it as you like.

Just like my traditional broccoli in the air fryer, the delicate florets turn deliciously charred. But broccolini has an earthy sweetness compared to the slightly bitter taste of broccoli.

what is broccolini?

Broccolini (sometimes called broccolette or baby broccoli) is a cross between broccoli and Chinese broccoli (also called Chinese kale). It has a more mellow flavor than regular broccoli and can be ready in a matter of minutes thanks to its thin stalks which cook quickly.

Keep in mind that it's a completely different vegetable than broccoli rabe, which has a more bitter flavor and a leafier appearance.

why this recipe works

Note to self: enjoy more broccolini.

It's one of those vegetables that I sometimes forget about but it always works. Whether you're tossing it into a salad or prepping it as a side dish for salmon or air fryer chicken thighs, the crispy texture and milder flavor of broccolini is so versatile.

The best way to enjoy broccolini is cooked since the broccoli florets get perfectly charred with a light crisp and caramelized flavor. Plus, you can't beat the ease of the air fryer!

Here's why you'll love it:

Tender broccolini is a great addition to any main dish.
It's healthy and versatile with under 10 ingredients.
This is a quick and easy air fryer recipe that works for all eaters!

Air fryer broccolini on a white plate with red pepper flakes and a slice of fresh lemon.

the ingredients

Simple ingredients shine in this recipe. I like to use a bit of white miso paste for a rich umami flavor, but you can certainly skip it and still get great results. I like the miso from Trader Joe's as it has just a few ingredients and is much "cleaner" than other brands.

Here's what you'll need:

broccolini
olive oil or avocado oil
white miso paste (optional)
garlic
sea salt and black pepper
fresh lemon juice
red pepper flakes or sesame seeds (optional)

the recipe

Most grocery stores sell broccolini in small bunches, about 8 ounces. That's just enough to fit into an air fryer basket and will usually give you about two servings.

To increase the yield, cook the broccolini in two separate batches instead of trying to squeeze more into the air fryer. The hot air should circulate the broccolini and if they're crowded, they'll steam instead of roast.

Here's a quick look at the process but make sure to refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the page to view all of the details!

Before you begin: rinse and pat dry the broccolini with paper towels. You want it to be dry before tossing in the oil mixture.

Broccolini on cutting board next to minced garlic.

In a large bowl, combine the oil, miso paste (if using), garlic, salt and pepper. Add the broccolini to the bowl and toss to coat.

Place broccolini in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F for 7-9 minutes or until the broccolini stems are tender.

Remove from the air fryer and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top. Garnish with red pepper flakes or sesame seeds.

tips for the best results

You can sub the fresh garlic for a ½ teaspoon garlic powder.

The cook time will vary based on the thickness of each piece. If your broccolini has thinner stalks, check on it after 6-7 minutes of cooking time. If it has thicker stalks, it may need to cook 8-9 minutes to make sure the thick stem is tender.

The broccoli florets will crisp up a little. You can cook the broccolini a bit less or more depending on how you like it done.

Store leftover broccolini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

variations of air fryer broccolini

The miso paste is completely optional but will give the broccolini a light umami flavor. However, here are other variations:

You can sprinkle it with parmesan cheese while hot or return to the air fryer and cook for another 1 minute to let the cheese melt.

Top the cooked broccolini with fresh lemon zest for an even punchier lemon-y flavor.

Whisk 2 teaspoons harissa paste into the oil mixture for a deliciously bold harissa broccolini with a kick!

Air frying is the best, isn't it?! It's quick, easy, and you're left with minimal cleanup afterward.

This air fryer broccolini recipe is a dream side dish situation- low lift with amazing results. Enjoy!