Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus

Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus is an easy and healthy side dish that only requires a handful of ingredients and less than 10 minutes of cook time.

Your freezer is your secret weapon when it comes to healthy and easy weeknight dinners. And this air fryer frozen asparagus recipe is the perfect example.

Why air fry frozen asparagus?

Air frying frozen asparagus is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook it. You don’t need to worry about pre-thawing the asparagus or dealing with soggy, waterlogged spears. The air fryer does all the work for you, creating perfectly cooked asparagus that’s crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, it’s a healthy way to cook asparagus since there’s no need for oil. This recipe could not be easier.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. frozen asparagus spears
• Spray oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

Start off by Preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees.

While the air fryer is preheating, add the frozen asparagus spears to a large bowl and lightly mist with spray oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to coat.

When the air fryer is preheated, add the asparagus in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.

Serve immediately.

Ingredient substitutions and variations

Try these other seasonings on your air fryer frozen asparagus:

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Lemon juice
• Herbes de Provence
• Parmesan cheese

For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese.

If you don’t have any asparagus on hand, you can use this same cooking method for frozen broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cook time accordingly. For example, frozen broccoli florets will likely need an extra minute or two in the air fryer.

If you want to make this recipe even quicker, you can buy pre-trimmed and washed asparagus spears. It is great to keep a bag or two in your freezer for easy weeknight meals.

Recipe tips

Thin asparagus spears can go from perfectly cooked to burnt very quickly. Keep a close eye on them and remove from the air fryer as soon as they’re done.

To make sure all of the asparagus spears cook evenly, be sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This will help them cook more evenly and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the basket.

When is asparagus in season?

Asparagus is in season from late April to early July. However, you can usually find it year-round in the frozen section of your grocery store.

If you can find fresh asparagus, definitely use it in this recipe! Just adjust the cook time accordingly. Fresh asparagus only needs a few minutes in the air fryer.

What goes well with asparagus?

Asparagus is a versatile side dish that goes well with a variety of main courses. Try serving it with:

• Grilled chicken
• Roasted salmon
• Hamburgers
• Steak
• Risotto
• Pasta dishes
• Eggs

FAQs

Can you put raw asparagus in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook raw asparagus in the air fryer. Just be sure to trim the ends and wash the spears before cooking. You’ll also need to adjust the cook time accordingly since raw asparagus will take longer to cook than frozen.

How long does it take to cook asparagus in the air fryer?

It depends on whether you’re using frozen or fresh asparagus. Frozen asparagus spears will take 5-7 minutes to cook, while fresh asparagus will only need 3-4 minutes.

What temperature should I cook asparagus at in the air fryer?

For both frozen and fresh asparagus, cook at 400 degrees.

How do you know when asparagus is done?

Asparagus is done when it’s tender but still has a little bite to it. You don’t want it to be too mushy. If you’re not sure, err on the side of undercooking since you can always put it back in the air fryer for a few more minutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Leftover asparagus can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or in the microwave before serving.

How do you store leftover asparagus?

Asparagus leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or in the microwave before serving.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

If you don’t have any asparagus on hand, you can use this same cooking method for frozen broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts. Just adjust the cook time accordingly. For example, frozen broccoli florets will likely need an extra minute or two in the air fryer.

Can I make asparagus in toaster oven?

Yes, you can make asparagus in a toaster oven. Just follow the same cooking instructions and cook at 400 degrees for 5-7 minutes.

How do you trim asparagus?

To trim asparagus, simply snap off the woody ends. There’s no need to peel or chop them any further.

How many calories are in asparagus?

Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable. One spear of asparagus contains only 4 calories.

What does asparagus taste like?

Asparagus has a slightly sweet, grassy flavor. It’s also slightly crunchy and chewy in texture.

How long does it take to cook frozen asparagus in the air fryer?

It takes about 5-7 minutes to cook frozen asparagus in the air fryer. Just be sure to toss with olive oil and seasonings before cooking.

What’s the difference between white and green asparagus?

White asparagus is grown underground, while green asparagus is grown above ground. As a result, white asparagus is more tender and has a milder flavor than green asparagus.

Is it better to buy fresh or frozen asparagus?

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to buying fresh or frozen asparagus. It really depends on your personal preference. That said, frozen asparagus can be a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook asparagus.

How do you store asparagus?

Fresh asparagus should be stored in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. If you’re not planning on eating it right away, you can also store asparagus in the freezer.

What’s the shelf life of asparagus?

The shelf life of asparagus depends on how it’s stored. Fresh asparagus will last for up to a week in the fridge, while frozen asparagus will last for several months.

What brands of frozen asparagus can I try? (If I don’t freeze my own)

Costco frozen asparagus Spears, Great Value frozen asparagus Spears, and Trader Joe’s frozen asparagus Spears are all popular brands of frozen asparagus. All three brands offer convenient and easy-to-cook asparagus products that you can use in the air fryer.

How do I make instant vortex plus asparagus?

To make instant vortex plus asparagus, start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F. Then, place the asparagus spears in the basket of the air fryer and cook for 8 minutes. When finished, remove from the air fryer and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus is a quick and easy way to cook asparagus. Simply toss with olive oil (or spray) and seasonings, then cook. You’ll have perfectly cooked asparagus spears that are tender but still have a little bite to them. Serve with your favorite main course and enjoy!