13 Quick and Delicious Air Fryer Vegetable Side Dishes Under 20 Minutes

Get ready to enjoy some tasty vegetable side dishes that are quick and easy to make! These 15 air fryer recipes come together in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a healthy addition to your meal or a crunchy snack, you’ll find a variety of flavors and textures to liven up your dining table.

Quick And Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a fantastic vegetable that can easily become a favorite side dish. When cooked in an air fryer, they turn out crispy and delicious in no time. This method is quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

The image showcases beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts, golden brown on the outside with a hint of char. They are garnished with a sprinkle of cheese, adding a creamy touch to the crispy texture. The vibrant green of the sprouts contrasts nicely with the warm tones of the plate, making it an inviting dish.

To make these quick and crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. They are easy to prepare and can be seasoned to your liking. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. They should be crispy and golden brown.
5. If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
6. Once done, remove from the air fryer and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately!

Zesty Air Fryer Asparagus With Lemon

Asparagus is a fantastic vegetable that cooks quickly and tastes amazing. This zesty air fryer asparagus recipe is perfect for a side dish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. The bright lemon and a sprinkle of cheese elevate the dish, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table.

In the image, you can see perfectly cooked asparagus spears, vibrant green and lightly dusted with cheese. The lemon slices add a fresh touch, while the seasoning brings everything together. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress.

Cooking asparagus in an air fryer is quick and easy. You’ll have tender, crispy spears in under 20 minutes. This method locks in flavor and keeps the asparagus vibrant. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place the asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 7-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. When the asparagus is tender and slightly crispy, remove it from the air fryer.
5. Top with lemon slices and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Savory Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites

Air fryer cauliflower bites are a fantastic way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. They come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect side dish or snack. The image shows a bowl filled with golden-brown cauliflower bites, garnished with fresh herbs and served alongside a delicious dipping sauce. The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it look even more appetizing!

To make these bites, you just need a few simple ingredients. The air fryer cooks them quickly, so you can have a tasty side dish ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or enjoying them as a snack while watching a movie, these cauliflower bites are sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or cilantro)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the cauliflower florets with olive oil, then toss them in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
4. Place the coated cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches.
5. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
6. Once done, remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Flavorful Air Fryer Carrot Fries

Carrot fries are a fun twist on a classic side dish. They’re crispy, slightly sweet, and packed with nutrients. Using an air fryer makes them quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

In the image, you can see golden-brown carrot fries arranged neatly on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of creamy dipping sauce sits alongside, inviting you to take a bite. The vibrant color of the carrots adds a cheerful touch to any meal.

These carrot fries are not just tasty; they are also a healthier alternative to traditional fries. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in under 20 minutes. They pair well with various dips, making them a versatile side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large carrots, cut into fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the carrot fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the carrot fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches.
4. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
5. Once they are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Broccoli With Garlic And Parmesan

Air fryer broccoli with garlic and parmesan is a quick and tasty side dish that brings out the best in this green veggie. The air fryer makes it easy to achieve a crispy texture while keeping the broccoli tender. Tossing it with garlic and parmesan adds a delightful flavor that pairs well with many main courses.

This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great choice for any meal. Plus, it takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

To make this dish, you’ll want to start with fresh broccoli florets. The garlic adds a nice kick, while the parmesan cheese gives it a savory finish. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavors even more.

Ingredients

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine broccoli florets, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until the broccoli is well coated.
3. Place the broccoli in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Once the broccoli is tender and slightly crispy, remove it from the air fryer. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese while it’s still hot.
5. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Spicy Air Fryer Eggplant Slices

Spicy air fryer eggplant slices are a fantastic side dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. The image showcases perfectly cooked eggplant, sliced and seasoned with vibrant red chili peppers and fresh herbs. The golden-brown crust hints at the delicious crunch that awaits, while the bright green cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.

This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a tasty and healthy side that pairs well with various main courses. The air fryer gives the eggplant a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil, keeping it light and satisfying.

To make these spicy eggplant slices, you’ll need eggplants, olive oil, chili flakes, garlic, and fresh herbs. The combination of spices and herbs creates a delightful flavor profile that elevates the humble eggplant into a star dish.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Red chili slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Season: Pat the eggplant slices dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili flakes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture onto both sides of the eggplant slices.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the eggplant slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. Garnish: Once cooked, remove the eggplant slices from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh cilantro and red chili slices before serving.

Herbed Air Fryer Green Beans

Herbed air fryer green beans are a quick and tasty side dish that can elevate any meal. The vibrant green color and fresh herbs make this dish not only appealing but also packed with flavor. Cooking them in an air fryer ensures they stay crisp and tender without the need for excessive oil.

To make these green beans, you’ll want to start with fresh, crisp beans. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and your choice of herbs like parsley or thyme. The air fryer will cook them perfectly in just a few minutes, making this dish a go-to for busy weeknights.

Pair these green beans with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty pasta dish. They add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor that complements a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until the beans are well coated.
3. Place the green beans in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
5. Once done, remove the beans and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Air Fryer Bell Pepper Fajitas

Air fryer bell pepper fajitas are a quick and tasty side dish that can brighten up any meal. The vibrant colors of red, yellow, and green peppers make them visually appealing and appetizing. These fajitas are not just pretty; they’re packed with flavor and can be ready in under 20 minutes!

Using an air fryer makes the cooking process super easy. You can toss the sliced peppers with some spices, pop them in the air fryer, and let it do the work. The result is perfectly cooked peppers that are tender yet slightly crisp, making them perfect for wrapping in tortillas.

Serve these fajitas with warm tortillas and a side of guacamole for a delicious treat. They’re great for family dinners or as a fun addition to a taco night!

Ingredients

• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Guacamole for dipping

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced bell peppers and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
3. Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Once the peppers are tender and slightly charred, remove them from the air fryer.
6. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and guacamole.

Garlic Butter Air Fryer Mushrooms

Garlic Butter Air Fryer Mushrooms are a quick and tasty side dish that can elevate any meal. The image showcases perfectly cooked mushrooms, glistening with garlic butter and sprinkled with fresh parsley. They look inviting and are sure to please anyone at the dinner table.

This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about convenience. Using an air fryer means you can whip up these mushrooms in under 20 minutes. The garlic butter adds a rich taste, while the air fryer ensures they come out tender and slightly crispy.

To make these mushrooms, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Fresh mushrooms are the star, but butter, garlic, and parsley play important supporting roles. The air fryer does the heavy lifting, cooking the mushrooms evenly and quickly.

These mushrooms pair well with a variety of main dishes. They can complement grilled meats, pasta, or even stand alone as a delicious appetizer. The versatility of this dish makes it a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), cleaned and trimmed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and trim the stems if necessary.
2. Make Garlic Butter: In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Toss Mushrooms: Add the cleaned mushrooms to the bowl and toss them in the garlic butter mixture until evenly coated.
4. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the mushrooms in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the mushrooms are tender and golden.
5. Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tangy Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks

Cabbage steaks are a fun and healthy side dish that can be made quickly in an air fryer. The image shows beautifully caramelized cabbage slices, showcasing their golden-brown edges and tender interior. They are drizzled with a tangy sauce that adds a burst of flavor. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

To make these tangy air fryer cabbage steaks, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The air fryer helps achieve that perfect crispiness while keeping the inside juicy. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a colorful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium green cabbage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Slice the cabbage into 1-inch thick steaks. Try to keep them intact so they hold together during cooking.
2. Season: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture onto both sides of the cabbage steaks.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the cabbage steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup. Drizzle this over the cooked cabbage steaks.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy your tangy cabbage steaks!

Air Fryer Roasted Beets With Feta

Air fryer roasted beets with feta is a delightful side dish that combines earthy flavors with a creamy twist. The vibrant red beets are perfectly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness, while the feta adds a tangy contrast. This dish not only looks appealing but is also packed with nutrients.

Preparing beets in the air fryer is a game changer. It cuts down the cooking time significantly, making it easy to whip up this dish in under 20 minutes. The beets become tender and slightly caramelized, enhancing their flavor. The addition of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley elevates the dish, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the beet wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place the beets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
4. Once tender, remove the beets from the air fryer and let them cool slightly.
5. Transfer the roasted beets to a serving plate, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, and garnish with fresh herbs.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Air Fryer Spiced Butternut Squash

Air fryer spiced butternut squash is a quick and tasty side dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. The image shows perfectly roasted cubes of butternut squash, golden and slightly caramelized, sitting in a rustic bowl. The warm tones of the squash contrast beautifully with the earthy colors of the background, creating a cozy vibe.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. The spices add a delightful kick, making it a perfect complement to your main course. Plus, it cooks in under 20 minutes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

To make this delicious side, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Squash: Peel and dice the butternut squash into even cubes for uniform cooking.
2. Season: In a large bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you like a touch of sweetness, add the maple syrup.
3. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned squash in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
4. Check for Doneness: The squash should be tender and slightly caramelized. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve warm as a delightful side dish.

Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Potatoes

Air fryer herb-roasted potatoes are a quick and tasty side dish that can elevate any meal. The image shows perfectly golden-brown potatoes, seasoned with fresh herbs, ready to be enjoyed. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a delightful addition to your dinner table.

These potatoes are not just easy to make; they also take under 20 minutes from start to finish. You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup or a creamy herb dressing, as seen in the image. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that complements the natural taste of the potatoes.

Using an air fryer makes this dish healthier compared to traditional frying methods. You get that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. Plus, the air fryer cooks them evenly, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.
5. Once done, remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.