10 Minute Air Fryer Asparagus

This simple recipe for fresh asparagus in the air fryer produces the most perfect crispy texture! Requires only 2 minutes of hands-on time to trim the ends of the asparagus, and 10 minutes in the air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Why the Air Fryer for Asparagus?

I absolutely love my Air Fryer for vegetables! Hands down, they always taste better. So it came as no surprise that when I took my first bite of asparagus after it cooked in the Air Fryer, I knew I would never have it any other way!!

Here is the thing, it tastes perfectly crispy and downright addicting! It doesn’t require much at all, just 5 minutes to prep your asparagus and 10 minutes in the air fryer. It’s one of those air fryer recipes I reach for when I want something crispy, simple, and packed with flavor. You can also add my optional extra delicious sauce at the end, or leave it as is!!

Benefits of Eating Asparagus

As a nutritionist, I know that eating vegetables while they are in season is the best way to get in maximum nutrient value! Asparagus is one of the absolute best veggies to enjoy. It’s a natural diuretic, it’s high in fiber, and also loaded with vitamins and minerals! As a natural antioxidant, it also helps to flush out toxins.

So don’t mind me as I eat my weight in asparagus over the next month or two! It’s in absolute peak season this time of year, and you should be finding a million ways to eat it:

• In a breakfast frittata or omelette like this Crustless Quiche
• In a salad, like in this Warm Asparagus Salad with Bacon
• Asparagus in Soup! My Roasted Asparagus Soup is a huge hit.
• Sheet pan dinners like my Sheet Pan Lemon Basil Chicken

And of course, my new favorite way with the Air Fryer. So let’s dust off that air-fryer and put it to good use!

How to make Asparagus in the Air Fryer:

I love how simple this is to throw together.

• Just a simple blend of oil and salt to toss in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 10 minutes at 400 degrees F
• Remove and eat as is, or create a “special sauce”

What is this “special sauce”?

I’ve been making asparagus with this “special sauce” for years. A blend of balsamic vinegar, butter, and soy sauce (or coconut aminos). This special combo is slightly sweet, salty, and tangy. All the things I love when it comes to vegetables!

Can I make this Asparagus in the oven?

Absolutely! I am partial to the air fryer option, but you can easily roast in the oven. If you have a convection setting, that works even better.

Set the convection or regular setting to 425 degrees F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray. Roast for 10-14 minutes (depending on the thickness of your asparagus.

Tips and Adaptations:

• Depending on the thickness of the asparagus, you may only need 8 minutes in the air fryer with thin asparagus. For thicker, use the entire 10 minutes.
• Want to skip the sauce? It tastes amazing with just oil and sea salt! You can also squeeze a bit of lemon juice.
• Adding parmesan or almonds is also a great option!

Love asparagus? My Asparagus and Feta Egg Muffin Cups are another delicious way to use it in a high-protein breakfast.