Air Fryer Garlic Butter Asparagus
A delightful side dish combining fresh asparagus with rich garlic butter, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus Select bright green, firm spears with tight tips.
- 2 tbsp melted butter Unsalted butter is typically used to control salt level.
- 2 cloves minced garlic Fresh garlic enhances the dish's flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust according to taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper To taste.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder Optional, fresh garlic is preferred.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- to taste lemon juice Drizzle before serving for freshness.
- to taste Parmesan cheese Optional, adds richness.
- to taste red pepper flakes For a spicy kick.
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and dry the asparagus thoroughly. Trim the woody ends.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until combined.
Cooking
- Place the trimmed asparagus in a mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the asparagus, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the coated asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the asparagus is tender and slightly crispy, shaking the basket halfway for even cooking.
- The asparagus should be bright green and crisp-tender. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
Serving
- Carefully remove the asparagus from the air fryer and transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra melted butter or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider roasting the asparagus with lemon slices or adding toasted nuts for crunch.