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Recipe from Simpler Savory

The recipe

Best Low Carb Air Fryer Asparagus

Prep
10 min
Cook
8 min
Total
18 min
Servings
4 servings

Nutrition Facts

Serving multiplier

Nutrition values scale; ingredient amounts stay as written.

Original author values. Recipe yield: 4 servings.

calories
70

2× the original author values. Recipe yield: 4 servings.

calories
140

3× the original author values. Recipe yield: 4 servings.

calories
210
Values are reproduced from the source recipe; this site only applies the selected linear multiplier and does not estimate nutrients.

Ingredients

  • 2 bunches asparagus spears — medium-thick; woody ends trimmed
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil — or avocado oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt — divided, plus more to finish
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper — freshly cracked
  • 2 cloves garlic — minced; or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest — from 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice — to taste
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese — finely grated; optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes — for heat
  • 2 tablespoons toasted almonds or pine nuts — chopped, for crunch
  • 1 tablespoon pesto — for a herby finish; dairy-free if needed

Instructions

  1. Snap off the woody ends of the asparagus, then lightly peel the thickest stalks if the skins feel tough.
  2. Pat the spears very dry so they crisp rather than steam.
  3. In a large bowl, toss asparagus with olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic until evenly coated and glossy.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  5. Arrange asparagus in a single layer in the basket; cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
  6. Air fry for 6 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until deep green with lightly charred tips and tender-crisp centers.
  7. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the spears during the last 1 minute so it melts and clings without burning.
  8. Transfer to a platter, sprinkle remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt if needed, add lemon zest, and squeeze lemon juice to taste.
  9. Finish with red pepper flakes, toasted nuts, or a swipe of pesto if desired.
  10. Serve immediately while tips are crisp; pair with chicken, steak, seafood, or eggs.
  11. Do not skip preheating and avoid overcrowding; moisture and crowding prevent browning.
  12. Use garlic powder or add minced garlic halfway to prevent burning.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed and re-crisped, or in a skillet over medium heat with a teaspoon of oil. Hold the lemon until serving if planning for leftovers to preserve color and brightness.

Source: https://simplersavory.com/best-low-carb-air-fryer-asparagus/