Introduction
Bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table with this simple and nutritious air-fried vegetable recipe. Perfect for a side dish or a light main course, these vibrant veggies are enhanced with olive oil and Italian seasoning, making them a delightful addition to any meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 small zucchini, cut into ½-inch slices and quartered
– 1 small yellow squash, cut into ½-inch slices and quartered
– 4 ounces mushrooms, quartered
– 1 medium red bell pepper, diced into ½-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
With minimal prep and quick cooking time, this air-fried vegetable recipe is not only easy but also a great way to enjoy healthy and colorful produce. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these vegetables will surely impress anyone at your dining table. Serve hot, and feel free to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Wash and prepare the vegetables
– Cut the zucchini and yellow squash into ½-inch slices, then quarter each slice.
– Quarter the mushrooms.
– Dice the red bell pepper into ½-inch pieces.
Preheat the air fryer
– Set the air fryer to preheat at 390°F.
Combine the vegetables
– In a large bowl, combine the prepared zucchini, yellow squash, mushrooms, and red bell pepper.
Add olive oil and seasoning
– Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Toss the vegetables
– Toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
Arrange vegetables in the air fryer
– Place half of the seasoned vegetables into the air fryer basket, spreading them out in a single layer to ensure proper air circulation.
Cook the first batch
– Insert the basket into the preheated air fryer and cook for 4 minutes.
Shake the basket
– After 4 minutes, remove the basket and shake it to redistribute the vegetables for even cooking.
Cook for additional time
– Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Transfer to serving dish
– Once done, transfer the cooked vegetables to a serving dish.
Repeat cooking process
– Repeat the cooking process with the remaining half of the vegetables.
Serve the vegetables
– Serve the air-fried vegetables hot, optionally garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Notes
Vegetable Cut Size
– Ensure that all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Air Fryer Model Variations
– Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model; check for doneness and adjust as necessary.
Garnishing Options
– Other herbs, such as fresh basil or parsley, can be used for different flavor profiles.
Cook techniques
Washing and Preparing Vegetables
Properly wash all vegetables to remove any dirt or pesticides. Cut zucchini and yellow squash into ½-inch slices, then quarter each slice to ensure even cooking. Quarter mushrooms for a consistent bite and dice the red bell pepper into ½-inch pieces for uniformity.
Drizzling and Tossing
Use a large bowl to combine all prepared vegetables. Drizzle olive oil over the mix, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Toss the vegetables thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated, which helps enhance flavors during cooking.
Air Frying
Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for optimal cooking temperature. Place half the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer to promote air circulation. This ensures that they cook evenly and become crispy.
Shaking for Even Cooking
After the initial cooking time of 4 minutes, remove the basket and shake it gently. This redistributes the vegetables, allowing for even cooking and preventing them from burning or sticking together.
Serving Suggestions
Transfer the cooked vegetables to a serving dish immediately after cooking. They can be garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute or add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or broccoli based on your preference.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer is recommended to achieve the best cooking results and to lock in flavor and texture.
How can I store leftover air-fried vegetables?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for best results.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, you can omit the olive oil if you prefer an oil-free version, but the vegetables may not be as crispy.
What can I serve with these air-fried vegetables?
Air-fried vegetables pair well with grilled chicken, fish, or can be tossed into salads for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This air-fried vegetable medley showcases the delightful flavors and textures of zucchini, yellow squash, mushrooms, and red bell pepper, all brought together with a touch of olive oil and Italian seasoning. The crispy result is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to any meal. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish as a side or even a light main course.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
Combine the air-fried vegetables with cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and a lemon-tahini dressing for a nutritious grain bowl.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Sauté the air-fried vegetables with cooked noodles or rice and a soy sauce or teriyaki glaze for a quick stir-fry.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the air-fried mix with cooked rice, beans, and cheese, then stuff into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
Pasta Primavera
Toss the air-fried vegetables with your favorite pasta, olive oil, garlic, and freshly grated parmesan for a vibrant dish.
Vegetable Omelette
Incorporate the air-fried vegetables into an omelette with eggs and cheese for a hearty breakfast option.
