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image of raw ingredients for air fryer asparagus with lemon zest on a rustic wooden board close up natural light
katya bou

Air Fryer Asparagus with Lemon Zest

A quick and vibrant side dish that celebrates the flavors of spring. Crispy, lemony, and perfectly seasoned, this air fryer asparagus is ready in under 10 minutes and pairs beautifully with any protein.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Asparagus
  • 1 lb fresh asparagus trimmed
Seasoning & Flavor
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • cup parmesan cheese freshly grated (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced

Equipment

  • Air Fryer,
  • Microplane Zester
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Rinse asparagus under cold water and pat completely dry. Snap off tough ends by holding each spear at both ends and bending gently until it breaks naturally.
  2. In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over asparagus. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss with your hands to coat evenly.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange asparagus in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
  4. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Thick spears may require up to 12 minutes. Watch for slight charring on tips and bright green color.
  5. Transfer immediately to a serving plate. Top generously with freshly grated parmesan and lemon zest. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 280mgPotassium: 240mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 850IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2.2mg

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer and ensure asparagus is fully dried before tossing in oil. Adjust seasoning post-cooking if needed.
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