Description
A vibrant and healthy recipe for air-fried mixed vegetables, featuring zucchini, bell pepper, mushrooms, onion, carrot, broccoli, and cauliflower seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder, then crisped to perfection in the air fryer. This easy, quick dish makes a perfect side or light meal option with an optional touch of Parmesan and fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 zucchini or yellow squash, cut into ½-inch half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 4 ounces cremini mushrooms, quartered
- 1 small red onion, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 heaping cup small broccoli florets
- 1 heaping cup small cauliflower florets
Seasonings & Oil
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon wedge, for squeezing
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to warm up while you prepare your vegetables, ensuring it is ready to cook as soon as the veggies are seasoned.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all vegetables: slice the zucchini or yellow squash into half-moons about ½-inch thick, chop the red bell pepper into 1-inch pieces, quarter the cremini mushrooms, chop the red onion into 1-inch chunks, thinly slice the carrot, and cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets.
- Season the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, toss all the chopped vegetables with the extra-virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Arrange for Air Frying: Place the seasoned vegetables in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which will ensure even cooking and crispness.
- Air Fry the Vegetables: Cook the vegetables at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to turn the vegetables and promote even browning and tenderness.
- Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, transfer the vegetables to a serving dish. Squeeze a fresh lemon wedge over the top to add brightness, and optionally garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of vegetable pieces.
- Mixing different vegetables with varying moisture content ensures a delightful texture contrast.
- Feel free to swap or add your favorite vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
- For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese garnish or use a plant-based alternative.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, as air-fried vegetables may lose crispness if left to sit too long.
