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Home » Vegetarian

Don’t Fear the Air Fryer - 15 Foolproof Veggie Upgrades

Published: May 14, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Air fryer veggies are a game-changer when it comes to easy, quick, and flavorful meals. If you've been hesitating to use your air fryer for vegetables, it's time to let go of that fear. These recipes are perfect for turning simple veggies into crave-worthy side dishes or snacks. Whether you're new to the air fryer or a seasoned pro, you'll find that these veggie upgrades are simple, tasty, and sure to impress.

An overview of a fried avocado taco.
Fried Avocado Tacos. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Samosas

An image of air fryer samosas on a plate that's ready to be served.
Samosas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These crispy samosas cook perfectly in the air fryer, giving you a lighter version of the classic Indian snack. The air fryer makes them quick and easy to prepare, with no need for deep frying, making them great for party appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Samosas

Nachos

A close-up imag of loaded nachos topped with melted cheese, avocado chunks, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and dollops of sour cream.
Nachos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer nachos come together in under 10 minutes with minimal preparation. The chips crisp up nicely, providing a great base for melted cheese and toppings, making them an easy snack when you’re short on time.
Get the Recipe: Nachos

Hasselback Potatoes

An overhead image of air fried hassel back potatoes on a plate with parsley on top and a fork and knife on the right side.
Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Hasselback potatoes cook up with a crisp exterior and a tender interior when prepared in an air fryer. In less than an hour, you can make these for gatherings with minimal effort and no need for constant attention.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Potatoes

Spaghetti Squash

An overhead image of air fried spaghetti squash.
Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Air fryer spaghetti squash turns perfectly tender in just 30 minutes, making it a simple and healthy side dish. Its light texture pairs well with any meal, offering a quick and easy addition to your table.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash

Buffalo Cauliflower

Air fryer vegan buffalo cauliflower bites in a bowl with dip nearby, placed under a wooden board.
Buffalo Cauliflower. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Buffalo cauliflower wings become crispy and flavorful when cooked in the air fryer, offering just the right amount of spice. They’re a great choice for game nights or casual gatherings, and they cook up quickly.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower

Fried Avocado Tacos

An overhead view of three fried avocado tacos on parchment paper surrounded by garnishes.
Fried Avocado Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fried avocado tacos are made with crispy air fryer avocado fries that are creamy inside and golden outside. Paired with refried beans and creamy poblano sauce, these tacos are a hearty and flavorful meal option.
Get the Recipe: Fried Avocado Tacos

Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sweet potato casserole stacks turn golden and crispy in the air fryer, offering a simple yet flavorful side dish. The yams cook evenly and are easy to prepare, making them a great addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole Stacks

Crispy Garlic Cabbage

Crispy Garlic Cabbage. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer cabbage steaks come out tender with crispy edges, offering a simple and flavorful side dish. They’re quick and easy to make, and their texture is perfect for pairing with any meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Cabbage

Brussels Sprouts

A close up image of air fryer brussels sprouts.
Brussels Sprouts. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully in the air fryer in less than 30 minutes. With their quick cooking time and roasted texture, they’re a great side dish that requires little effort.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts

Parsnips

Parsnips. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Parsnips cook quickly in the air fryer, becoming sweet and crispy on the outside with a soft interior. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare this versatile vegetable as a side dish or snack.
Get the Recipe: Parsnips

Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Sweet Potato Tater Tots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sweet potato tater tots crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, making them a great snack, side dish, or appetizer. They’re easy to prepare, and their golden exterior is a hit with everyone.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Tater Tots

Mushrooms

Mushrooms. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mushrooms cook up perfectly in the air fryer, coated in a simple garlic soy sauce. This quick side dish has a satisfying texture and deep flavor, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushrooms

Artichoke

A white plate with two grilled artichoke halves and a small stone bowl of dipping sauce.
Artichoke. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These air fryer artichokes achieve a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a lighter version of this Roman-Jewish specialty, making it a great seasonal choice.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke

Rice Paper Dumplings

Rice Paper Dumplings. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Air fryer rice paper dumplings turn crispy while offering a lighter alternative to traditional dumplings. Their crunchy exterior and vegetable filling make them a great snack or appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Dumplings

Butternut Squash

Butternut Squash. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Butternut squash roasts effortlessly in the air fryer, developing caramelized edges and a tender texture. It’s a quick and flavorful seasonal side dish that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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