Can I use this method with fresh asparagus?

Yes! It works very well with fresh asparagus. Depending on the thickness of your spears, you should be able to get the asparagus fully cooked in 8-10 minutes, but you can monitor it. I'd shake the basket halfway through the cooking process.

Can I use green beans or broccoli instead?

Yup. Check on them to ensure they cook in the preferred amount of time, but it will work!

Is it normal for the asparagus to turn out a little limp?

Yup, that's totally fine and it's still delicious! I've noticed it depends on the brand of frozen asparagus, the thickness of the spears, and the cook time.

I have a small air fryer basket. Should I change anything?

Yes, I would do smaller batches for best results. If you don't mind the texture, then you can layer the asparagus in there and follow the recipe as written.

Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus

Name: Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Ounces Frozen Asparagus Spears (see note 1); 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil, Optional (see note 2); Salt and Fresh Cracked Black Pepper, To Taste (or spices of choice); Squeeze of Lemon; Grated Vegan Parmesan Cheese; Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

Description

Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus is one of the easiest veggies and really quite delicious. Make this healthy side dish in just 10 minutes!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus

12 ounces Frozen Asparagus Spears (see note 1)
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil, Optional (see note 2)
Salt and Fresh Cracked Black Pepper, To Taste (or spices of choice)

Optional Additions

Squeeze of Lemon
Grated Vegan Parmesan Cheese
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes

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Instructions

Preheat: If your air fryer allows preheating, you can do that for a great texture to your frozen asparagus. But it's optional.
Initial Cook: Add the frozen asparagus stalks to the air fryer basket in a single layer (for best results). Cook for 5 minutes at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
Season: Once the frozen asparagus spears have defrosted, add them to a large bowl. Dress with the rest of the ingredients: olive oil (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
Second Cook: Gently toss and put them back in the air fryer basket (still in a single layer) and cook for 3-5 minutes until the asparagus are your desired texture. You can do more or less time to your preferences.
Using Fresh Asparagus? Wash and trim asparagus, and follow the recipe! You can add the oil and seasoning now and cook for 8-10 minutes. Time will depend on how thick your spears are, but 8-10 minutes is usually perfect for me.
Serve: Serve air fryer frozen asparagus immediately. Garnish with grated vegan parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes if you like.
Storage: Leftover asparagus will keep for 2-3 days in the fridge in an airtight container, but I personally think it's best the first night.

Notes

Note 1: I prefer full length spears, but this recipe will work with the frozen cut asparagus too. You can also make this exact recipe with fresh asparagus! Just make sure you wash and trim asparagus before cooking it. Thicker spears tend to taste better than thin spears, but with a bit of oil and some seasonings you can make a delicious asparagus recipe. You can even use this recipe for green beans for another nutritious side dish!
Note 2: I like to make oil optional since everyone has different dietary needs. I don't personally like to eat oil but I make sure to test recipes both ways. So if you want to skip the oil, go ahead. If you're cool with oil, olive oil is best but avocado oil also works!

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American