If you’re searching for a keto-friendly side that’s both effortless and bursting with flavour, this Air Fryer Asparagus with Garlic Butter is your new go-to. Asparagus is naturally low in carbs and high in fibre, making it a perfect fit for a ketogenic lifestyle. Cooking it in the air fryer brings out its natural sweetness while keeping the spears crisp-tender, and the garlic butter adds a rich, savoury finish.
Ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a nutritious snack without fuss. Simply toss fresh asparagus with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt, then air fry until beautifully golden. Finish with a drizzle of melted butter and a squeeze of lemon for a restaurant-quality side that pairs well with any main.
Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, topping it with a poached egg, or enjoying it as a snack, this air fryer asparagus delivers on taste, texture, and keto macros. It’s a simple way to elevate your vegetable game and keep your meals exciting while staying low-carb.
At a glance
- Time: 10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 2
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Carbs: 3 g
- Energy: 120 kcal
Ingredients
- 250g Asparagus spears (Trimmed)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 Garlic cloves (Finely minced)
- 15g Butter (Melted)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (Or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- 1 Lemon wedge (To serve)
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Small saucepan
- Knife
Steps
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 2 minutes.
- Place the trimmed asparagus spears in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the asparagus is crisp-tender and lightly golden at the tips.
- While the asparagus cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Transfer the cooked asparagus to a serving plate. Drizzle with melted butter and squeeze over the lemon wedge.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or extra olive oil — For a dairy-free version
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a neutral flavour or if olive oil is unavailable
Serving Ideas
- With grilled chicken – for a balanced keto meal.
- Topped with a poached egg – for a satisfying brunch.
- As a snack with aioli dip – for a flavourful, low-carb bite.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Choose medium-thick asparagus for best texture; thin spears cook faster and may dry out.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping.
- Add lemon zest for extra brightness.
Variations
- Sprinkle with toasted almonds for crunch.
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for heat.
- Swap garlic for shallots for a milder flavour.
Troubleshooting
- If asparagus is soggy, reduce the amount in the basket and increase air flow.
- If tips are burning, reduce cooking time by 1–2 minutes.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Fridge: up to 2 days
- Freezer: up to 0 months
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 2–3 minutes to restore crispness.
Ingredient Spotlight
Asparagus: Rich in fibre, vitamins A, C, and K, and naturally low in carbs, making it ideal for keto.
Olive oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and enhances the asparagus flavour.
FAQs
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before air frying to avoid sogginess. Cooking time may be slightly shorter.
How do I know when the asparagus is done?
The spears should be bright green, crisp-tender, and lightly golden at the tips.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely. Sprinkle grated parmesan over the asparagus in the last 2 minutes of air frying for a cheesy finish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but asparagus is best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
What other seasonings can I use?
Try smoked paprika, chilli flakes, or Italian herbs for extra flavour.
Air Fryer Asparagus with Garlic Butter – Quick Keto Side
Ingredients
- 250g Asparagus spears (Trimmed)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 Garlic cloves (Finely minced)
- 15g Butter (Melted)
- 1/4 tsp Salt (Or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- 1 Lemon wedge (To serve)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for 2 minutes.
- Place the trimmed asparagus spears in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Arrange the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the asparagus is crisp-tender and lightly golden at the tips.
- While the asparagus cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Transfer the cooked asparagus to a serving plate. Drizzle with melted butter and squeeze over the lemon wedge.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or extra olive oil — For a dairy-free version
- Olive oil → Avocado oil — For a neutral flavour or if olive oil is unavailable
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Carbs: 3 g
- Energy: 120 kcal
