Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Delight

Looking for a tasty side dish that’s simple and quick? You’ll love these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts! In just a few steps, you can transform fresh Brussels sprouts into a crispy delight. With garlic and Parmesan, this dish adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
I love using fresh Brussels sprouts for this recipe. They are the star of the dish! Look for sprouts that are bright green and firm. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen sprouts can work too.
Next, olive oil adds a nice flavor and helps the sprouts crisp up. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste. Garlic is a must. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. You will finely mince it to release all its goodness.
Salt and pepper are essential to enhance the flavors. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. The Parmesan cheese gives a savory finish. Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and taste.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. It adds a zesty kick that balances the savory elements. Finally, chopped parsley makes for a pretty garnish. It adds color and freshness to your plate.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. Let it warm for about 5 minutes. A hot air fryer helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up nicely.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. If you like spice, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Toss everything well. Make sure every sprout gets coated with oil and spices.
Air Frying the Brussels Sprouts
Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket. Lay them in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. If your air fryer is small, you might need to cook in batches. Air fry for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, gently shake the basket. This ensures they crisp up on all sides.
Adding the Parmesan Cheese
After the Brussels sprouts are golden and crispy, remove the basket. Generously sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return the basket to the air fryer. Cook for an extra 2 minutes. This melts the cheese and gives it a nice texture.
Final Touches and Serving
Once the cheese melts, carefully move the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over them. This adds a bright flavor. For a fresh look, garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy these as a side dish or a tasty snack!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Even Cooking
To get the best texture, make sure your Brussels sprouts are cut evenly. Halving them helps them cook fast and evenly. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches. This way, they won’t crowd each other. Crowding leads to soggy sprouts.
Best Olive Oil for Flavor
A good olive oil adds rich flavor. I recommend using extra virgin olive oil. Its taste is bold and complements the garlic and cheese well. Avoid cheap oils; they can spoil the dish.
Adjusting Seasonings for Personal Taste
You can tweak the seasonings to match your taste. Fresh herbs add bright flavor. If you have fresh rosemary or thyme, use those. Dried herbs work too but use less. Fresh herbs are stronger, so start with a small amount.
How to Prevent Soggy Brussels Sprouts
To keep your sprouts crispy, avoid overcooking. The air fryer does a great job, but it needs space. Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This movement helps them cook evenly and stay crisp. Drizzle lemon juice at the end; it keeps them fresh without making them soggy.
Variations
Adding Other Veggies
You can mix in other veggies for extra flavor and texture. Try carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just cut them into similar sizes as the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil and seasonings. This adds color and nutrition to your dish.
Different Cheese Options
Parmesan cheese gives a nice salty kick. But you can try other cheeses too! Pecorino Romano is a great choice for a sharper taste. You might also like crumbled feta for a creamy touch. Just sprinkle it on top at the end, like you do with Parmesan.
Spicy & Sweet Variations
Want to spice things up? Add red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also mix in honey or balsamic vinegar for sweetness. Drizzle honey over the sprouts before air frying. For balsamic, toss it on after they cook. Both options create a tasty balance of flavors that you’ll love!
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
After you enjoy your Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts, keep any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Always let them cool down to room temperature before sealing. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your Brussels sprouts, the best method is using the air fryer again. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 5 minutes. This keeps them crispy. You can also use an oven. Just place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave to keep them from getting soggy.
Freezing Brussels Sprouts
You can freeze Brussels sprouts too! Place them in a freezer bag after cooking. Squeeze out the air and seal tightly. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the air fryer for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may not get as crispy. Thaw them first and pat them dry. This helps remove excess moisture. If they are still frozen, adjust cooking time. Cook them for a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
How do I make them extra crispy?
To make your Brussels sprouts extra crispy, follow these tips:
- Ensure they are dry before adding oil and seasonings.
- Cut them in half for more surface area.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking.
- Add the Parmesan cheese at the end to keep it crispy.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts pair well with many dishes:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Steak or pork chops
- Quinoa or rice bowls
- Pasta dishes
- Or enjoy them as a tasty snack!
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are very healthy! They are low in calories and high in fiber. They also contain vitamins C and K, along with antioxidants. Eating them may help improve digestion and support heart health. Plus, they are a great addition to a balanced diet.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container. To keep them crispy, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
In this blog post, we explored a tasty way to prepare Brussels sprouts using an air fryer. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to mix flavors and achieve crispy results. Remember, you can customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or cheeses. These Brussels sprouts make a great side dish or snack. Try this recipe to enjoy healthy, flavorful bites. It’s simple and fun for everyone. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
