Start by rinsing the asparagus under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once cleaned, dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel, as excess moisture can affect crispiness in the air fryer.
Next, slice off about 1/2 to 1 inch from the bottom of the asparagus spears and discard the tough ends. This step is crucial for ensuring you enjoy the tender parts of the vegetable.
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is vital as it helps cook the asparagus evenly and achieve that desirable crispiness.
In a mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a savory seasoning mix that will coat the asparagus.
Place the dried asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently to ensure each spear is coated. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the asparagus and toss again until evenly coated.
Carefully arrange the seasoned asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Cook for 6 to 10 minutes, checking for tenderness and a lightly roasted appearance on the outside. The exact timing can depend on the thickness of the spears, so keep an eye on them.
Once cooked, remove the asparagus from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Enjoy your beautifully cooked Easy Air Fryer Asparagus Recipe as a side dish or a healthy snack!
