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Air fryer grilled vegetables with zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes featuring smoky grill marks, tender crisp texture, fresh herbs, and a light olive oil drizzle, served as a colorful and flavorful side dish.
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Air Fryer Grilled Veggies - Quick, Flavorful, and Perfectly Tender-Crisp

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • Red onion, cut into wedges
  • Broccoli florets (or broccolini)
  • Mushrooms (baby bella or white), halved
  • Cherry tomatoes (optional, for a juicy pop)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
  • Smoked paprika (for that grilled vibe)
  • Dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • Lemon (zest and wedges for serving)
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil (optional garnish)
  • Balsamic vinegar or a splash of red wine vinegar (optional finish)

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer. Set it to 390–400°F (200–205°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the veggies sear on contact.
  • Prep the veggies. Wash, dry well, and cut them into even, bite-size pieces. Pat dry again to remove excess moisture. Dry veggies brown better.
  • Season generously. In a large bowl, toss the veggies with 1–2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Add lemon zest for brightness.
  • Don’t overload the basket. Arrange veggies in a single layer for the best color. Work in batches if needed. Crowding = steaming, not grilling.
  • Air fry and shake. Cook for 8–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Thinner items (peppers, zucchini) cook faster; thicker ones (broccoli, mushrooms) need a touch longer. Aim for caramelized edges and tender centers.
  • Finish with acid and herbs. Right after cooking, splash with 1–2 teaspoons balsamic or red wine vinegar. Toss with chopped parsley or basil. Taste and adjust salt.
  • Serve immediately. Add lemon wedges on the side. The heat brings out the citrus aroma and brightens every bite.