14 Must-Try Air Fryer Vegetable Side Dishes

I’ve been using my air fryer almost daily for the past two years, and let me tell you – it has completely transformed how I prepare vegetables. What used to be a tedious process of roasting in the oven (with all that preheating and waiting) has become quick, easy, and dare I say… exciting!

Air fryers create perfectly crispy vegetables with minimal oil in just minutes. The rapid air circulation gives you that delicious roasted texture without the hassle of traditional methods. Today, I’m sharing my 14 absolute favorite air fryer vegetable side dishes that will complement any main course and might just steal the spotlight at your dinner table.

Why Air Fry Your Vegetables?

Before diving into the recipes, let me explain why air frying has become my go-to method for vegetable sides:

• Faster cooking time – Most vegetables are ready in 10-15 minutes
• Crispy texture – Achieves that perfect roasted exterior that’s hard to get in a microwave
• Less oil needed – Uses 70-80% less oil than traditional frying
• Nutritional retention – The quick cooking time helps preserve vitamins and nutrients
• Consistent results – Once you find your perfect timing, you’ll get reliable results every time
• No preheating necessary – Unlike your oven, most air fryers need minimal or no preheating
• Easy cleanup – Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher safe or simple to hand wash

Now, let’s get to those delicious recipes!

1. Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Even Brussels sprouts skeptics will become converts after trying this recipe. The air fryer transforms these often-maligned vegetables into crispy, nutty delights.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for serving)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place in air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd (work in batches if necessary).
3. Air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. The sprouts should be deeply browned and crispy on the outside, tender inside.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	112
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	13g
Fiber	5g
Fat	5g
Sodium	320mg

Serving suggestion: These pair beautifully with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

2. Perfect Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Sweet potatoes become irresistibly caramelized in the air fryer, with crispy edges and tender centers. This is my go-to side dish when I need something foolproof and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
• 1½ tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a sweet-savory twist)

Instructions:

1. Soak the sweet potato cubes in cold water for 30 minutes (this helps remove excess starch for maximum crispiness).
2. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss with oil and all seasonings until evenly coated.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes.
5. They’re done when the edges are browned and crispy but the centers are soft.

Time-saving tip: Cut your sweet potatoes the night before and store them submerged in water in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	165
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	27g
Fiber	4g
Fat	6g
Sodium	215mg

Serving suggestion: These sweet potato cubes are fantastic alongside grilled chicken or turkey burgers. For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad.

3. Zucchini Fries with Herb Dipping Sauce

When summer brings an abundance of zucchini, this is my favorite way to prepare them. The air fryer gives these “fries” a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Ingredients for Zucchini Fries:

• 2 medium zucchini
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Olive oil spray

Ingredients for Herb Dipping Sauce:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut zucchini into ½-inch thick sticks, about 3 inches long.
2. Set up a breading station: beaten egg in one bowl, and a mixture of panko, Parmesan, and seasonings in another.
3. Dip zucchini sticks in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
4. Lightly spray air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
5. Arrange zucchini in a single layer (you’ll need to work in batches).
6. Spray tops lightly with olive oil spray.
7. Air fry at 390°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
8. While fries cook, combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
9. Serve zucchini fries immediately with dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving, without sauce):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	128
Protein	8g
Carbohydrates	14g
Fiber	2g
Fat	5g
Sodium	345mg

Serving suggestion: These make a fantastic appetizer on their own, but also work well alongside grilled fish or a hearty sandwich.

4. Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms

Mushrooms are one of the quickest vegetables to prepare in an air fryer and develop an amazing umami flavor. This simple recipe lets their natural flavor shine.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and halved (or quartered if large)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
3. Air fry at 375°F for 7-8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley while hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	98
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fiber	1g
Fat	8g
Sodium	210mg

Serving suggestion: These mushrooms make an excellent topping for steak or chicken, or can be tossed with pasta for a quick meal.

5. Crispy Cauliflower Bites with Buffalo Sauce

This is my go-to recipe when I’m craving something with a spicy kick. The air fryer gives cauliflower an amazing crispy texture that holds up well to the buffalo sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
• Celery sticks for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
2. Place in air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
3. Air fry at 390°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket halfway through.
4. While cauliflower cooks, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter in a large bowl.
5. When cauliflower is crisp-tender, transfer to the bowl with sauce and toss gently.
6. Return to air fryer for 2 more minutes to set the sauce.
7. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	165
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	3g
Fat	14g
Sodium	580mg

Serving suggestion: These make a fantastic appetizer, but I also love them as a main dish paired with a simple green salad.

6. Perfectly Roasted Broccoli with Lemon

Broccoli in the air fryer develops deliciously crispy floret edges while remaining tender. This simple preparation lets the natural flavor shine.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes.
2. Place in air fryer basket, leaving some space for air circulation.
3. Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking basket halfway through.
4. The broccoli is done when the edges start to brown and crisp.
5. Transfer to a serving dish, squeeze fresh lemon juice over top, and sprinkle with Parmesan if using.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	112
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fiber	4g
Fat	8g
Sodium	265mg

Serving suggestion: This broccoli pairs well with almost any protein – try it with salmon, chicken, or even alongside a hearty pasta dish.

7. Asian-Inspired Green Beans

These green beans develop amazing flavor and a slight char in the air fryer. The soy-garlic sauce gives them a delicious Asian twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Sliced green onion for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss green beans with sesame oil and garlic.
2. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. While the beans cook, mix soy sauce, honey, and sriracha in a small bowl.
5. When beans are done, transfer to a serving bowl and toss with sauce.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onion.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	98
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	3g
Fat	5g
Sodium	210mg

Serving suggestion: These green beans are perfect alongside Asian-inspired main dishes like teriyaki salmon or as part of a rice bowl.

8. Crispy Carrot Fries

I love these as a healthier alternative to potato fries. The natural sweetness of carrots intensifies in the air fryer, and they develop a wonderful texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into ¼-inch sticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss carrot sticks with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
2. Place in air fryer basket, trying not to overcrowd.
3. Air fry at 390°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes.
4. Carrots are done when they’re browned on the edges but still tender inside.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro tip: For extra crispiness, soak carrot sticks in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking, then pat dry thoroughly.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	75
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fiber	3g
Fat	3g
Sodium	150mg

Serving suggestion: These carrot fries are delicious on their own with a dipping sauce like aioli, or alongside sandwiches and burgers.

9. Mediterranean Eggplant Rounds

Eggplant becomes wonderfully tender in the air fryer without getting soggy. These rounds make a versatile side dish or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, cut into ½-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle eggplant rounds with salt and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.
4. Place in a single layer in air fryer basket.
5. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with feta and mint.
7. Drizzle with honey if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	138
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	13g
Fiber	5g
Fat	9g
Sodium	290mg

Serving suggestion: These eggplant rounds work well alongside grilled meats like lamb or chicken, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze platter.

10. Spicy Roasted Radishes

If you’ve never tried cooked radishes, you’re in for a surprise! Roasting transforms their sharp flavor into something mild and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 bunches radishes, trimmed and halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss radishes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
2. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and toss with melted butter.
5. Garnish with lemon zest and fresh chives.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	85
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fiber	2g
Fat	8g
Sodium	220mg

Serving suggestion: These radishes make an unexpected and delicious side dish for roasted chicken or steak.

11. Parmesan Asparagus Spears

Asparagus is one of the fastest vegetables to cook in an air fryer and develops a wonderful roasted flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Lay in air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Air fry at 400°F for 7-10 minutes (depending on thickness), shaking halfway through.
4. Transfer to a serving plate, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve with lemon wedges.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	78
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fiber	3g
Fat	5g
Sodium	240mg

Serving suggestion: This asparagus pairs beautifully with grilled fish or as a side to a rich pasta dish.

12. Maple Cinnamon Butternut Squash

The air fryer caramelizes the natural sugars in butternut squash, creating a delicious side dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, toss squash cubes with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Place in air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd.
3. Air fry at 380°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes.
4. If using pecans, add them during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
5. The squash is done when it’s fork-tender and caramelized on the edges.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	120
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	3g
Fat	5g
Sodium	120mg

Serving suggestion: This butternut squash makes an excellent side for holiday meals or alongside pork chops or roasted chicken.

13. Crispy Kale Chips

Making kale chips in the air fryer is so much faster and more reliable than using an oven. They come out perfectly crispy every time!

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves torn into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)

Instructions:

1. Wash kale leaves and dry thoroughly (a salad spinner works great for this).
2. In a large bowl, massage kale with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Place in air fryer basket, trying not to overlap too much.
4. Air fry at 360°F for 5-6 minutes, shaking basket halfway through.
5. Watch carefully as kale can burn quickly!
6. When crisp, transfer to a bowl and toss with nutritional yeast if using.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	70
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	7g
Fiber	2g
Fat	4g
Sodium	150mg

Serving suggestion: These make a great healthy snack on their own, or can be crumbled over soups and salads for added crunch.

14. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Corn on the cob in the air fryer develops a wonderful roasted flavor similar to grilled corn, but with much less effort.

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn, husks and silk removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For herb butter:

• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (parsley, chives, basil), finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Brush corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Place in air fryer basket, fitting as many as will comfortably fit.
3. Air fry at 390°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, mix all herb butter ingredients in a small bowl.
5. When corn is done (it should have some browned kernels), brush with herb butter while hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, with 1 tablespoon herb butter):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	175
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	17g
Fiber	2g
Fat	12g
Sodium	105mg

Serving suggestion: This corn makes an excellent side dish for barbecue favorites like ribs, burgers, or grilled chicken.

Air Fryer Vegetable Cooking Time Chart

Here’s a handy reference chart for air frying common vegetables:

Vegetable	Temperature	Time (minutes)	Notes
Asparagus	400°F	7-10	Depends on thickness
Broccoli	380°F	8-10	Cut into even florets
Brussels Sprouts	380°F	10-12	Halve for faster cooking
Butternut Squash	380°F	15-18	1-inch cubes
Carrots	390°F	12-15	Cut into sticks
Cauliflower	390°F	12-15	Even-sized florets
Corn on the Cob	390°F	10-12	Turn halfway
Eggplant	375°F	10-12	½-inch rounds
Green Beans	375°F	8-10	Trim ends
Kale	360°F	5-6	Watch carefully!
Mushrooms	375°F	7-8	Halved or quartered
Radishes	380°F	10-12	Halved
Sweet Potatoes	400°F	15-18	¾-inch cubes
Zucchini	390°F	10-12	Cut into sticks

Tips for Air Fryer Vegetable Success

After countless batches of air-fried vegetables, I’ve learned a few tricks that make a huge difference:

1. Don’t overcrowd the basket – This is perhaps the most important tip. Air needs to circulate around the food for proper crisping. Work in batches if necessary.
2. Pat vegetables dry – Excess moisture prevents crispiness. For starchy vegetables like potatoes, soaking in water and then drying thoroughly can improve texture.
3. Use just enough oil – A light coating helps with browning and crisping. Too much oil can make vegetables soggy.
4. Shake the basket – For even cooking, shake the basket once or twice during cooking.
5. Season after cooking for some vegetables – Delicate herbs and some seasonings can burn. Add them after cooking for the best flavor.
6. Don’t rely solely on timing – Air fryers can vary. Use timing as a guide, but check for desired doneness.
7. Preheat for some recipes – While many air fryers don’t require preheating, a 2-3 minute preheat can help with some vegetables.
8. Cut vegetables into uniform sizes – This ensures even cooking throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to use oil when air frying vegetables?

While you technically can air fry some vegetables without oil, I don’t recommend it. A small amount of oil (usually 1-2 tablespoons for a batch) helps with browning, crisping, and flavor development. It also helps seasonings adhere to the vegetables. You’re still using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in the air fryer?

Yes! Frozen vegetables work surprisingly well in the air fryer. You don’t need to thaw them first, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Keep in mind that frozen vegetables with higher water content (like zucchini or bell peppers) won’t get as crispy as their fresh counterparts.

Q: Why aren’t my vegetables getting crispy in the air fryer?

Several factors might be preventing crispiness:

• Overcrowding: Make sure vegetables have space for air to circulate
• Too much moisture: Pat vegetables dry before cooking
• Not enough oil: A light coating helps with crisping
• Temperature too low: Most vegetables need at least 375°F to develop crispiness

Q: How do I know when my vegetables are done?

Most vegetables should be tender when pierced with a fork and have some browning on the outside. Root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes take longer than softer vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Use the cooking times in the chart as a starting point, but always check for doneness.

Q: Can I prep vegetables ahead of time for air frying?

Absolutely! You can cut vegetables up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For starchy vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes, submerge them in water to prevent browning, then dry thoroughly before air frying.

Q: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for vegetables?

It depends on your specific air fryer model. Some manufacturers recommend preheating, while others don’t. I’ve found that a quick 2-3 minute preheat can help with more delicate vegetables like asparagus, but it’s not strictly necessary for most recipes.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer vegetables have become a game-changer in my kitchen. They’ve transformed weeknight dinners from basic to exceptional with minimal effort. Whether you’re trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet or simply looking for delicious sides that don’t require much hands-on time, these recipes will serve you well.

The beauty of air fryer vegetables is their versatility – once you understand the basic techniques, you can experiment with endless flavor combinations and seasonings. Start with these proven recipes, then let your creativity take over!

Remember that cooking times can vary slightly between air fryer models, so use the times provided as a general guide and adjust as needed for your specific appliance. Happy air frying!