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Emma Lawson | 
14.06.2025

Air Fryer Steamed Veg: Quick, Healthy & Full of Colour

Air fryer steamed vegetables are vibrant, tender, and done in minutes. A healthy side dish that beats soggy microwave veg every time.
Prep Time
5m
Total Time
10m
Cook
15m
Yield
2 servings
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Steamed
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Vegetables

Ingredients for Air Fryer Steamed Veg

Just the basics — fresh and colourful

  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

These extras can enhance flavour and presentation — drizzle lemon juice or scatter herbs just before serving.

Keep It Chunky

Cut vegetables into slightly larger chunks to maintain texture and prevent them from drying out in the air fryer.

How to Steam Veggies in the Air Fryer

This method locks in flavour, colour and nutrients using the power of steam inside your air fryer pouch.

  1. Preheat air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Place vegetables on a sheet of foil or parchment, drizzle with oil, season lightly.
  3. Fold into a loose pouch with sealed edges.
  4. Place pouch in air fryer basket.
  5. Cook for 10 minutes, checking for doneness at 8 mins.

Steam Lock Secret

Use foil or baking paper to create a pouch — it helps vegetables steam in their own moisture, without drying out.

Nutrition Info

Calories: 340 | Protein: 30g | Carbs: 20g | Fat: 14g

How to Serve Steamed Veg

Steamed vegetables go well with protein mains or as a warm salad base. Use them in wraps, nourish bowls or grain salads.

Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Steamed Veg

Steamed vegetables in the air fryer are a simple, foolproof side dish that delivers nutrition and taste without hassle. This method keeps veggies bright, crisp-tender, and naturally flavourful — no need for soggy boiling or microwave mess. Plus, you can mix up veg combos or add flavours to suit your meals. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to overcooked greens. A perfect recipe for clean eating and busy evenings.

Explore other Recipes below!

FAQs About Steaming Veg in the Air Fryer

Can I use frozen vegetables?

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Yes, just reduce the cook time slightly and don't add extra water — the ice content will create steam naturally.
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Do I need to add water to the air fryer?

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No, you don’t need to add water. The natural moisture from the veg steams them as they cook in a foil or parchment pouch.
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What are the best vegetables for this method?

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Broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, green beans, and bell peppers all steam beautifully in the air fryer.
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How do I stop them drying out?

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Use a foil or parchment pouch to trap steam and avoid overcooking. Avoid slicing vegetables too thinly.
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