Name: Air Fryer Asparagus with Fresh Dill
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 lemon, for optional squeezing; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped

This Air Fryer Asparagus with Fresh Dill is a vibrant, healthy side dish that’s ready in minutes. Crisp-tender asparagus spears are lightly seasoned, air-fried to perfection, and garnished with fresh dill for a burst of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, it’s simple yet sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for asparagus lovers! The air fryer delivers perfectly cooked asparagus with a delightful crisp-tender texture in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. Fresh dill adds a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the dish without overpowering the asparagus’s natural flavor. It’s a healthy, low-calorie side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian mains. Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious, appealing to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick, flavorful addition to their meals.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and enhances crispiness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange asparagus in a single layer for optimal air circulation.
Adjust Cooking Time: Thicker spears may need an extra minute or two; check for fork-tenderness.
Use Fresh Dill: Dried dill lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh, so stick with fresh herbs.
Oil Sparingly: A light coating of olive oil prevents drying without making the asparagus greasy.
Shake the Basket: Halfway through cooking, shake or toss to ensure even browning.
Season After Cooking: Add salt and dill post-cooking to preserve their flavors.

Yield: Serves 4

Air Fryer Asparagus with Fresh Dill

Crisp air fryer asparagus with fresh dill, ready in minutes, perfect for healthy, flavorful meals.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Additional Time 2 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 lemon, for optional squeezing
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 2 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Trim the Asparagus: Snap or cut off the woody ends of the asparagus spears for tender, edible stalks.
Toss with Oil: In a large bowl, drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, tossing gently to coat evenly.
Season Lightly: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, reserving some for final seasoning to preserve flavors.
Arrange in Basket: Place asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for best results.
Air Fry: Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
Check for Doneness: Test with a fork; asparagus should be crisp-tender. Add 1-2 minutes for thicker spears.
Add Fresh Dill: Transfer asparagus to a serving plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped dill for a vibrant touch.
Optional Lemon Zest: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus for a bright, zesty finish, if desired.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot as a side with your favorite main dish for a fresh, healthy meal.

Notes

Ensure asparagus is dry before oiling to prevent steaming in the air fryer.
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of Parmesan in the last minute.
If using thicker asparagus, increase cooking time slightly but monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 58Total Fat 4gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 0mgSodium 95mgCarbohydrates 6gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 3g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Asparagus: Choose fresh, firm spears with tightly closed tips for the best texture and flavor. Thinner spears cook faster and stay tender.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, fruity note, but any neutral oil like avocado oil works well.
Fresh Dill: This herb brings a unique, slightly sweet flavor that complements asparagus perfectly. Chop it just before use to retain freshness.
Salt and Pepper: Use kosher or sea salt for better control, and freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick.
Lemon (Optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness, enhancing the dish’s summery feel.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist, try swapping fresh dill for other herbs like parsley, tarragon, or chives to suit your taste. If you’re out of olive oil, melted butter or grapeseed oil can work in a pinch. For a cheesy variation, sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the asparagus in the last minute of cooking. If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika before air frying. For a vegan-friendly version, ensure your oil or seasoning is plant-based. You can also experiment with balsamic vinegar or garlic powder for added depth.

Storage Options

Store leftover asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness. Freezing is not recommended, as it can make asparagus mushy. For meal prep, trim and season asparagus ahead of time, but cook just before serving for the best texture.