Save There's something about the way broccolini transforms in an air fryer that caught me completely off guard the first time I tried it. I'd always steamed it or tossed it into a pan, but one afternoon when I was experimenting with my new air fryer, I decided to see what would happen if I just let it get properly charred. What emerged was this crispy, caramelized version of itself—nothing like what I'd made before. The garlic chips that I'd fried separately added this salty crunch, and a squeeze of fresh lemon brought the whole thing alive. It became an instant favorite, the kind of side dish I find myself making almost weekly now.
I remember serving this to my sister's family last spring, and her kids actually asked for seconds of vegetables, which was basically a miracle. Their mom gave me this look like I'd discovered something magical, but it's really just about letting the broccolini char properly and not being shy with the lemon. That meal turned into a regular request every time they visit, and now it's become the dish my nephew requests on his birthday.
Ingredients
- Broccolini, trimmed: Use fresh broccolini with tight florets and no yellowing stems—it makes a real difference in how well it chars and caramelizes in the heat.
- Olive oil: I learned to split the oil between tossing the broccolini and frying the garlic separately, which gives you control over the texture of each element.
- Garlic cloves, thinly sliced: Slice them thin and watch them constantly—they go from golden to burnt in seconds, but that golden stage is pure flavor.
- Lemon, zested and juiced: Fresh lemon is non-negotiable here; the brightness is what makes this dish sing instead of just being roasted vegetables.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season generously before air frying so the flavor builds as things char.
- Red pepper flakes: A pinch adds warmth without heat, but it's optional depending on your mood.
- Parmesan cheese, shaved: Shaved pieces scatter better than grated and melt slightly from the residual heat, which is the whole point.
- Toasted pine nuts: They add a buttery crunch, but toasted almonds work if that's what you have on hand.
Instructions
- Get your air fryer ready:
- Preheat to 200°C (400°F) for about 3 minutes. This matters more than you'd think—a properly heated basket gives you that char faster.
- Coat and season:
- Toss the trimmed broccolini with 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until every piece is lightly coated. Don't oversoak it, but don't be stingy either.
- Char until golden:
- Arrange the broccolini in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 7 to 9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You're looking for the florets to turn deep golden and the edges to look almost burnt—that's where the flavor is.
- Make your garlic chips:
- While the broccolini cooks, heat the remaining half tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and stir it constantly—it'll go from pale to golden to burnt in maybe a minute and a half. The second it turns that deep golden color, pull it off the heat and let it drain on paper towels.
- Finish while hot:
- Transfer the charred broccolini to your serving platter while it's still steaming. Immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice and scatter the lemon zest over everything—the heat helps the flavors bloom. Toss gently so you don't break apart the florets.
- Layer and serve:
- Scatter your crispy garlic chips and shaved Parmesan across the top, add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like, and finish with toasted pine nuts. Serve right away with extra lemon wedges on the side so people can add more if they want.
Save What really struck me about this salad is how it turned me into someone who actually looks forward to eating vegetables. There's no cheese sauce, no cream, no butter—just heat, lemon, and salt doing exactly what they're supposed to do.
Why Charred Vegetables Change Everything
Charring isn't just about appearance; it's about chemistry. When broccolini gets hot enough, its natural sugars caramelize, creating flavors that steaming or gentle sautéing can't deliver. I started paying attention to this when I noticed the difference between air fryer results and oven roasting at a lower temperature, and the high heat in the air fryer is what makes the broccolini taste almost sweet and nutty. Once you've had it this way, there's no going back.
Building Layers of Flavor
This dish works because each element has its own texture and role. The broccolini brings the substantial, charred earthiness; the garlic chips add a salty crunch; the Parmesan brings savory richness; the lemon juice brings brightness and acidity that ties everything together. I realized early on that if I skipped any of these components, something felt off—the whole thing depends on that balance of crispy, salty, bright, and rich.
Variations and Adaptations
This is one of those recipes that invites improvisation without losing its soul. I've made vegan versions using toasted breadcrumbs instead of Parmesan, and I've added crispy chickpeas for extra protein when I needed something more substantial. In the summer, I sometimes throw in fresh herbs at the last moment, and it still works beautifully. The core recipe—charred broccolini plus lemon, salt, and something crispy—is so solid that it handles variations well.
- Try adding crispy chickpeas or toasted nuts for a protein boost if you're making it a main course.
- A splash of good vinegar (balsamic or red wine) can replace or complement the lemon depending on the mood.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or mint scattered on top just before serving add a fresh green note.
Save This salad proved to me that the best dishes aren't always complicated—sometimes they're just about respecting good ingredients and not overthinking it. It's become one of those recipes I reach for when I want something that feels both nourishing and a little bit special.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use regular broccoli instead of broccolini?
Yes, regular broccoli can be used, though cooking times may vary. Cut into smaller florets for even charring in the air fryer.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives or toasted breadcrumbs for similar texture and flavor.
- → What is the best way to achieve crispy garlic chips?
Thinly slice garlic and cook in olive oil over medium heat until golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- → Can I prepare broccolini without an air fryer?
Yes, broccolini can be roasted in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes or charred on a grill for similar flavor.
- → Are toasted pine nuts necessary?
Pine nuts add a lovely crunch and flavor but can be omitted or replaced with toasted almonds or walnuts if preferred.