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Close up of crispy broccoli and cauliflower with sesame seeds, chili flakes, and green onions.

Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower

This quick and easy Air Fryer Broccoli and Cauliflower with sesame oil, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes is a super flavorful side dish that can be ready in under 15 minutes. Perfectly seasoned, tender on inside, and crisp on the outside.
5 from 2 votes
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Liv King

Ingredients
 

  • 1 medium Broccoli Crown cut into florets
  • 1 small Head of Cauliflower cut into florets
  • 3 Garlic Cloves thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
  • 2 Green Onions thinly sliced

Instructions

  • Chop the head of cauliflower and broccoli crown into florets. Cauliflower takes longer to cook, so chop the cauliflower florets a tiny bit smaller than the broccoli florets.
  • Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets to a large bowl.
  • Thinly slice the garlic and add to the bowl.
  • Toss in the olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat.
  • Add the vegetables into the air fryer basket in a single layer. I recommend doing this in two batches so they evenly cook.
  • Air fry at 375F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes and making sure the vegetables aren't burning. No need to pre-heat the air fryer.
  • Keep in mind that air fryers can differ. For your initial attempt at this recipe, it's advised to keep a close eye on it. Check the broccoli and cauliflower halfway through and in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking to ensure it doesn't burn.
  • Transfer the broccoli and cauliflower to a serving dish and toss with the toasted sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and red chili flakes.
  • Thinly slice green onions and garnish!

Notes

Important Note about Salt: Not all salts are made equal and cannot be substituted 1:1. If you are substituting table salt for kosher salt, you will need to cut the amount called for in the recipe by at least half. 
 
Make sure that the cauliflower florets are smaller than broccoli to ensure even cooking. Cauliflower takes longer to cook.
 
Air fryers can vary. When attempting this air fried broccoli and cauliflower recipe for the first time, monitor it closely. Check on it at the halfway point and during the final 3-4 minutes of cooking.
 
If you don't have an air fryer, you can still prepare this side dish by roasting the veggies in the oven. Simply place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 25-35 minutes at 400°F.
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