Ingredients:

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus (medium thickness)
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked Black Pepper (or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar (for glaze reduction)
  • 1 teaspoon Maple Syrup or Honey (optional for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan Cheese (optional garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the asparagus spears. Snap off the tough, woody ends where they naturally break.
  2. Place the trimmed asparagus in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until lightly and evenly coated.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes (optional, but recommended).
  4. Arrange the seasoned asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if necessary to ensure crisping.
  5. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through (around the 4-minute mark). Check for doneness: spears should be bright green and tender-crisp.
  6. While the asparagus cooks, prepare the glaze: Combine balsamic vinegar and maple syrup (if using) in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and reduce until the liquid coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes), reducing by about half.
  7. Transfer the hot asparagus to a serving platter. Drizzle immediately with the prepared balsamic glaze and garnish with grated Parmesan, if using. Serve immediately.