Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe with Toasted Almonds and Lemon Zest for Easy Healthy Snacks
A quick, healthy, and satisfying snack featuring crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with toasted almonds and fresh lemon zest, perfect for guilt-free munching.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450 grams) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry 1 pound (450 grams) of Brussels sprouts. Trim the stem ends and halve them lengthwise. Drying well is key to getting that crisp texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated.
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add 1/4 cup (30 grams) sliced almonds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding for the best crisp. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing the sprouts halfway through to ensure even cooking. The sprouts should be deeply golden and crispy on the edges but tender inside.
- Transfer the hot Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl. Immediately sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top, then zest one teaspoon of fresh lemon over everything. Toss gently to combine flavors.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Dry Brussels sprouts thoroughly before cooking to ensure crispiness. Toast almonds separately to maintain crunch. Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking for even browning. If sprouts aren’t crisping well, spray a little oil halfway through cooking. Lemon zest adds a bright aroma that lemon juice cannot replicate. For nut-free versions, substitute almonds with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 of
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 9
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: Brussels sprouts, air fryer, healthy snack, toasted almonds, lemon zest, quick recipe, easy snack, vegan, gluten-free