Get ready to elevate your vegetable game with my Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Delight! This tasty recipe transforms simple Brussels sprouts into a crunchy, savory side dish in no time. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, Parmesan, and a dash of balsamic vinegar, these sprouts will become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious dish that even veggie skeptics will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Garnishing
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (for drizzling)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
I love using fresh Brussels sprouts in this dish. They are small, round, and packed with flavor. Start by trimming each sprout, removing the tough ends, and halving them. This helps them cook evenly and gives you more crispy edges.
Next, I add olive oil to coat the sprouts. Olive oil adds richness and helps them crisp up in the air fryer. I also put in minced garlic, which gives a great aroma and taste. You can adjust the amount if you love garlic.
For seasoning, I use salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. This makes the dish exciting!
The finishing touch is the grated Parmesan cheese. It melts perfectly over the hot Brussels sprouts. Drizzle some balsamic vinegar for a tangy contrast. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
– Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them.
To start, preheating the air fryer is key. This ensures your Brussels sprouts cook evenly. Trimming the sprouts makes them ready for cooking. Halving them helps them get nice and crispy.
Cooking Steps
– Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and seasonings.
– Place in air fryer basket and cook.
In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like heat. Toss everything well so each sprout gets coated. Then, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook in batches. Cook for 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking. You want them golden brown and crispy.
Finishing Touches
– Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and add Parmesan.
– Garnish before serving.
Once cooked, take the Brussels sprouts out and put them in a bowl. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over them while they are still hot. Then, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. The heat will help the cheese melt a bit. Toss them gently to mix in the cheese. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds a nice touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your tasty dish!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To cook your Brussels sprouts evenly in the air fryer, follow these steps:
– Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps them cook faster.
– Cut the sprouts evenly in half. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
– Do not overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed. This allows for better air circulation.
– Shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps them brown nicely.
To get perfect crispiness, try these tips:
– Use enough oil. Two tablespoons of olive oil works well.
– Cooking time matters. Aim for 12-15 minutes for that golden brown finish.
– Check for doneness. They should feel crisp and tender inside.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add more flavor to your Brussels sprouts with these ideas:
– Add lemon zest for a bright, fresh taste.
– Try adding balsamic glaze instead of vinegar for sweetness.
– For a spicy kick, mix in more red pepper flakes or even chili powder.
– Topping options can include crumbled feta or crispy bacon bits.
To make your dish extra cheesy, consider these tips:
– Mix in different cheeses. Cheddar or feta can add a unique twist.
– Use more Parmesan. A bit more on top can make it richer.
– Try a cheese blend for more depth of flavor.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can change the cheese for a new taste. Feta adds a tangy flavor. Cheddar gives a richer taste. Both work well with Brussels sprouts. You can also add other veggies. Try carrots for sweetness or sweet potatoes for creaminess. These choices make the dish unique and fun.
Dietary Modifications
If you want a vegan dish, swap cheese with nutritional yeast or cashew cheese. Both options give a cheesy flavor without dairy. For gluten-free needs, this recipe is already safe. Just double-check any sauces or additional toppings to ensure they fit your diet.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps them crisp. Place the container in the fridge. Your leftovers can last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If they start to smell or look off, it’s best to toss them.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating properly is key. You can use the air fryer again to keep them crispy. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes. This will bring back that nice crunch.
If you want to refresh the flavor, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar before reheating. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added taste. Enjoy your delicious Brussels sprouts!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. Just thaw them first. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture. This helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
What air fryer model is best for cooking Brussels sprouts?
Any air fryer works well for Brussels sprouts. I recommend a model with adjustable temperature settings. A basket-style air fryer allows for even cooking and crisping.
How do I know when the Brussels sprouts are done?
Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown and crispy. You can check them at the 12-minute mark. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Information
How many calories are in Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
Each serving has about 150 calories. This can vary based on the amount of oil and cheese you use.
Are Brussels sprouts healthy?
Yes, Brussels sprouts are very healthy. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain antioxidants, which are great for your health.
Serving Suggestions
What to serve with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts?
These sprouts pair well with grilled chicken or fish. They also go great with quinoa or brown rice. You can serve them as a side dish at dinner or a light lunch.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the Brussels sprouts ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge after seasoning. When ready to eat, air fry them fresh for the best taste.
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts are simple yet packed with flavor. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for perfection. Whether you want to make variations or store leftovers, there’s a method for everyone. These tasty sprouts can fit many diets and appeal to all. Enjoy these healthy bites at any meal. Cooking can be fun and delicious with the right steps! Try this recipe, and I bet you will love it.
