The air fryer delivers satisfying crunch without the heaviness of traditional frying. Vegetables, potatoes, and even grains get crisp, golden edges in just minutes. Seasonings cling beautifully, creating bold flavor with minimal oil. An effortless way to upgrade meals with texture and speed.

Air Fryer Asparagus

A plate of cooked asparagus spears garnished with sea salt and a lemon wedge.
Air Fryer Asparagus. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Cooking asparagus can be tricky, but the air fryer nails it every time. High heat creates tender spears with lightly crisp edges and none of the bitterness that comes from undercooking. Simple seasoning lets the natural flavor shine. Even asparagus skeptics may find themselves reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Asparagus

Air Fryer Parsnips

Air Fryer Parsnips. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Natural sweetness comes alive when parsnips hit the air fryer. Soft centers and crispy edges give them a fry-like texture without the heaviness. They’re ready fast and work equally well as a side or a snack. A great option when you want something comforting but still vegetable-forward.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parsnips

Air Fryer Okra Fries

A plate of crispy baked okra fries, perfect as a weeknight side dish, garnished with herbs and served with a small wooden bowl of dipping sauce. Fresh parsley and chopped herbs are nearby.
Air Fryer Okra Fries. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crispy texture replaces the usual softness that turns people away from okra. The air fryer transforms sliced pods into crunchy, snackable fries with simple seasoning. Each bite is light, savory, and addictive. A surprising way to win over okra doubters.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Okra Fries

Air Fryer Radishes

Air Fryer Radishes with parsley, salt, and pepper in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Radishes. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Roasting radishes softens their sharp bite and brings out a mild, almost potato-like flavor. The air fryer gives them crisp edges while keeping the inside tender. Minimal ingredients keep preparation effortless. A colorful, low-carb side that pairs well with almost anything.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Radishes

Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash

Air fryer zucchini and squash on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Light seasoning and quick cooking create beautifully browned slices with tender centers. Summer squash stays fresh-tasting without turning soggy. The simplicity makes it easy to pair with grilled meats or pasta dishes. Perfect for quick weeknight sides during peak produce season.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini and Squash

Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes on a platter.
Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Crispy exteriors and fluffy centers make smashed potatoes incredibly satisfying. Cooking them in the Woodfire air fryer adds texture without excess oil. They’re hearty enough to stand on their own or complement grilled mains. A crowd-pleasing side with rustic appeal.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

Air fryer Brussel Sprouts in a white bowl with a spoon.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

High heat delivers crispy outer leaves and tender centers in minutes. Simple ingredients keep flavors clean and balanced. The result is nutty, savory, and far from boring. A reliable go-to for fast, nutrient-rich sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

A sweet potato on a plate with a fork.
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fluffy interiors and lightly crisp skins come together with minimal effort. Cooking time is faster than the oven without sacrificing texture. Natural sweetness shines without needing much seasoning. A simple, dependable side that works year-round.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer

Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

Crispy cubed eggplant roasted in the air fryer on a plate with a serving spoon.
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Proper airflow creates golden edges while keeping the inside tender and creamy. Light seasoning lets the eggplant’s flavor stay front and center. No breading needed for satisfying texture. A versatile side that complements Mediterranean and comfort-style meals alike.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Diced and whole carrots in an air fryer basket on a wooden surface.
Air Fryer Glazed Carrots. Photo credit: On and Off Keto.

Natural sweetness intensifies with a glossy glaze of butter, honey, and brown sugar. The air fryer caramelizes the exterior while keeping the carrots tender. Flavor feels elevated without being complicated. Suitable for both special occasions and everyday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Glazed Carrots

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots

A plate full of sweet potato tater tots with dip.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bite-sized pieces cook up crisp on the outside and soft inside. They’re versatile enough to serve as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. The air fryer keeps them light but satisfying. Great for dipping or eating straight off the tray.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Air Fryer Broccoli

Broccoli florets with seasoning in an air fryer basket, some lemon slices and a striped cloth nearby.
Air Fryer Broccoli. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

High heat brings out roasted flavor without turning florets mushy. Crisp edges add texture while the centers stay tender. Once cooked this way, steaming feels unnecessary. A fast, dependable vegetable side for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Broccoli

Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)

Sweet Japanese sweet potatoes roasted in the air fryer.
Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Dense, naturally sweet flesh becomes creamy when cooked through. Minimal ingredients let the unique flavor shine. The air fryer speeds things up while keeping texture spot on. A simple yet deeply satisfying side.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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