Name: Zesty Air Fryer Asparagus with Garlic Butter
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 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Savor the vibrant flavors of Zesty Air Fryer Asparagus with Garlic Butter, a quick and healthy side dish for dinner. Crisp asparagus spears are lightly seasoned, air-fried to perfection, and drizzled with rich, garlicky butter, creating a delightful balance of zest and savory goodness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for asparagus lovers and busy cooks alike. The air fryer delivers perfectly crisp-tender asparagus in just minutes, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. The zesty seasoning blend adds a bright, tangy kick, while the garlic butter elevates the dish with its rich, savory depth. It’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains. Plus, it’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence for any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and bold flavors.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Preheat the Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to 400°F for even cooking and a crisp texture.
Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
Shake the Basket: Halfway through cooking, shake the basket or flip the asparagus for even browning.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the lemon zest or salt before serving to suit your preference.
Use Fresh Asparagus: Fresh, firm spears yield the best texture; avoid limp or woody stalks.
Garlic Butter Timing: Drizzle the garlic butter right before serving to maintain its rich flavor and prevent sogginess.

Yield: Serves 4

Zesty Air Fryer Asparagus with Garlic Butter

Zesty Air Fryer Asparagus with Garlic Butter is a quick, flavorful side dish with crisp asparagus and rich, garlicky goodness.

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 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus: Rinse the asparagus under cold water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Trim off the woody ends (about 1-2 inches from the bottom) using a sharp knife.
Season the Asparagus: In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, lemon zest, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. The lemon zest will add a vibrant, fresh flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes. Preheating ensures the asparagus cooks evenly and gets that perfect crisp texture.
Arrange in the Basket: Place the seasoned asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
Air Fry the Asparagus: Cook for 7-8 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the spears halfway through to ensure even browning. The asparagus should be tender yet crisp.
Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the asparagus cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Optional Spice Kick: If you like a touch of heat, stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a subtle, spicy warmth.
Drizzle and Toss: Once the asparagus is done, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm garlic butter over the spears and toss gently to coat.
Taste and Adjust: Give the asparagus a quick taste and add a pinch more salt or lemon zest if desired for an extra zesty punch.
Serve Immediately: Serve the asparagus hot as a side dish to your favorite main course, garnished with an optional sprinkle of fresh herbs or parmesan.

Notes

For best results, use asparagus spears of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
If the asparagus is very thin, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking.
The garlic butter can be prepared in advance and reheated gently before drizzling.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 109Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 15mgSodium 174mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 2gSugar 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, medium-thick spears with tight tips for the best texture and flavor. Trim the woody ends before cooking.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness, but any neutral oil like avocado oil works well.
Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest provides a bright, tangy flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice for authenticity.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key for the butter sauce, offering a robust, aromatic taste compared to pre-minced garlic.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Use high-quality butter for a richer flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
Optional Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a subtle heat, but can be omitted for a milder flavor profile.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist, try swapping lemon zest for orange zest to add a slightly sweeter citrus note. If you’re dairy-free, replace butter with a vegan alternative or extra olive oil for a lighter finish. For added crunch, sprinkle toasted almond slivers or parmesan cheese over the asparagus after air frying. If you don’t have an air fryer, roast the asparagus in a 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes. For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an earthy touch, or toss in some cherry tomatoes during cooking for a colorful, juicy addition.

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. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus soggy. Freezing is not recommended, as it may compromise the texture, but you can repurpose leftovers in salads or omelets.