Name: Air Fryer Asparagus with Mustard Glaze
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

This Air Fryer Asparagus with Mustard Glaze is a quick, flavorful side dish perfect for dinner. Tender asparagus spears are lightly crisped in the air fryer and coated with a tangy, sweet mustard glaze. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a healthy, vibrant addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Asparagus with Mustard Glaze is a game-changer for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The air fryer delivers perfectly tender-crisp asparagus with minimal effort, while the mustard glaze adds a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. It’s a healthy, low-calorie dish packed with nutrients, making it ideal for those seeking a quick yet impressive side. With only a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules. Plus, the vibrant green asparagus and glossy glaze make for a visually stunning presentation that elevates any meal.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Trim asparagus properly: Snap off the woody ends or trim about 1-2 inches from the bottom for tender spears.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Arrange asparagus in a single layer for even cooking and crisp texture.
Shake the basket: Halfway through cooking, shake the air fryer basket to ensure even browning.
Adjust glaze thickness: If the glaze is too thick, thin it with a teaspoon of water; if too thin, add more mustard.
Check doneness early: Air fryer models vary, so check asparagus at 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Serve immediately: Asparagus is best enjoyed hot for maximum flavor and texture.

Yield: Serves 4

Air Fryer Asparagus with Mustard Glaze

Crispy air fryer asparagus coated in a tangy mustard glaze, ready in minutes for a healthy, flavorful dinner side.

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 8 minutes

Additional Time 2 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Trim the asparagus: Rinse the asparagus and snap off the woody ends or trim about 1-2 inches from the bottom.
Toss with oil: Place asparagus in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly for crisp results.
Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Coat the asparagus: Brush half of the mustard glaze over the asparagus, ensuring each spear is lightly coated.
Arrange in air fryer: Place asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking.
Cook the asparagus: Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender and slightly crispy.
Apply remaining glaze: Remove asparagus from the air fryer and brush with the remaining glaze for extra flavor.
Serve hot: Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or parsley, if desired.
Enjoy immediately: Serve this vibrant side dish alongside your favorite protein or main course for a delicious meal.

Notes

Ensure your air fryer is clean to avoid any residual flavors affecting the asparagus.
For thicker asparagus, increase cooking time by 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.
If the glaze separates, whisk vigorously before applying to ensure a smooth coating.
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, salmon, or a creamy pasta main course.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 77Total Fat 4gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 0mgSodium 351mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 3gSugar 6gProtein 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 tight tips for the best texture and flavor. Thinner spears cook faster and stay tender.
Olive oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for a rich, fruity flavor that enhances the asparagus.
Dijon mustard: Provides a sharp, tangy base for the glaze. Opt for smooth Dijon for a consistent texture.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the mustard’s tang. Substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the glaze with a subtle, savory depth. Avoid pre-minced for better flavor.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the natural flavors. Use freshly ground black pepper for a bolder kick.
Lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the glaze and complements the asparagus’s earthy notes.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist, try different glazes like balsamic vinegar and honey for a sweeter, richer flavor, or soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired profile. Swap Dijon mustard for whole-grain mustard for a textured glaze with a milder taste. For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Add a sprinkle of parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami boost. If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli florets work well in the air fryer with the same glaze. For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the glaze.

Storage Options

Store leftover asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness. Freezing is not recommended, as asparagus can become mushy. For best results, enjoy fresh, as the glaze may lose its vibrancy over time.