Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) Medium to thick asparagus spears, trimmed
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • ½ tsp (3 g) Fine Sea Salt
  • ¼ tsp (1 g) Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • ½ tsp (2 g) Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tbsp (15 g) Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp Fresh Lemon Zest
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) Fresh Lemon Juice

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus spears thoroughly. Snap off the tough, woody ends. Pat the spears completely dry with a clean kitchen towel—this prevents steaming in the air fryer.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Place the dried asparagus into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, ensuring the spears are lightly coated.
  3. Season: Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and garlic powder over the oiled spears. Use your hands or tongs to toss thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: If your model requires preheating, set it to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Load the Basket: Transfer the seasoned asparagus to the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd. They should lie in a mostly single layer. Use two batches if necessary.
  6. Initial Cook: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 4 minutes.
  7. Shake and Turn: Open the basket and use tongs to gently toss or shake the asparagus to promote even cooking and browning.
  8. Final Cook: Return the basket and continue cooking for another 4 to 6 minutes, until the spears are tender when pierced with a fork and show signs of light blistering or charring.
  9. Finish the Dish: Immediately transfer the hot asparagus to a serving platter.
  10. Add Fresh Flavour: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice over the hot spears. The heat of the asparagus will slightly melt the cheese and release the aroma of the zest.
  11. Serve Immediately: Serve while the asparagus is still hot and crisp.