Imagine transforming those often-maligned little green orbs into a crispy, golden-brown delicacy that's so irresistible, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds! These air fryer brussels sprouts are not just a side dish; they're a culinary revelation that will completely change your perception of this nutritious vegetable. With a perfect balance of caramelized exterior and tender interior, this recipe promises to turn brussels sprouts from a dreaded vegetable into a crave-worthy sensation that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound brussel sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Wash brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water, pat dry completely with paper towels to ensure crispy results.
- Trim the stem ends of brussels sprouts and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Place halved brussels sprouts in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the brussels sprouts, tossing gently to distribute seasonings uniformly.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for approximately 3-4 minutes to ensure proper initial cooking temperature.
- Arrange brussels sprouts in a single layer inside air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook brussels sprouts for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- Check doneness by piercing with a fork - sprouts should be tender inside with crispy, caramelized exterior.
- Optional: Drizzle with balsamic vinegar immediately after cooking for added depth of flavor.
- Transfer to serving plate and enjoy hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Always ensure your brussels sprouts are completely dry before cooking to achieve that desirable crisp texture.
- Size matters - try to cut your brussels sprouts into uniform halves to guarantee even cooking and consistent browning.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leaving space between the sprouts allows hot air to circulate, creating that perfect crispy exterior.
- Shaking the basket midway through cooking is crucial for even browning and preventing any burnt spots.
- Experiment with seasonings! While this recipe uses garlic powder, you can try other spices like smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
- The optional balsamic vinegar drizzle adds a tangy complexity that elevates the entire dish - don't skip it if you enjoy a bit of depth in your flavors.
- Serve immediately after cooking to maintain the maximum crispiness and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
