Listen, I’ll admit it—I wasn’t always a snap pea person. That changed one desperate afternoon when my snack drawer was empty, and all I had was a forgotten bag of snap peas and a sad-looking hunk of parmesan. Ten minutes later? Magic. Crispy, salty, addictive magic. These Air Fryer Snap Peas with Parmesan are my go-to when I need something crunchy-fast, whether it’s for game night, a sneaky veggie side, or just shoveling straight into my mouth while standing at the counter (no judgment). The best part? You’re 15 minutes—and one very forgiving air fryer—away from the easiest upgrade to boring old veggies.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Listen, these aren’t just any snap peas – they’re your new snack obsession. Here’s why:
- Faster than takeout: From fridge to plate in 15 minutes flat (including that lazy preheating time)
- Crisp that lasts: That perfect crunch holds up better than oven-roasted versions
- Parent win: My picky kid actually asks for “the green chips” (shh…don’t tell him they’re vegetables)
- One bowl wonder: Toss everything together – no fancy techniques or messy dredging
- Guilt-free munching: All that parmesan flavor for just 120 calories a serving
Trust me, you’ll start keeping snap peas in your fridge just for emergencies – the “I need something delicious RIGHT NOW” kind.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Here’s what you’ll need to make these crispy little bites of joy:
- 2 cups snap peas – trimmed (those stringy ends gotta go!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil – just enough to make the cheese stick
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan – I mean freshly grated, not that dusty stuff in the green can
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – the lazy cook’s best friend
- 1/4 tsp salt – because cheese needs backup
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – freshly cracked if you’re feeling fancy
See? Nothing weird or hard-to-find – just simple stuff that makes snap peas sing.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Ran out of something? No panic:
- Parmesan alternatives: Pecorino works great, or for dairy-free, try nutritional yeast (it won’t crisp the same but still tasty)
- Oil swap: Avocado oil works if that’s your jam – just don’t use anything with a strong flavor
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you like heat
Watch out: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that make it clump weirdly in the air fryer. Fresh grating = golden crispiness every time.
How to Make Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Okay, let’s turn those sad raw snap peas into crispy little flavor bombs. This is so easy you’ll laugh—but that first crunchy bite? Absolute game-changer.
Step 1: Prep the Snap Peas
First, grab each snap pea and snap off the stem end—that little tough string comes right off if you pull downward. Give them a quick pat with a paper towel too; leftover water is the enemy of crispiness.
Step 2: Seasoning Mix
Toss those trimmed peas into a bowl—I use my biggest one so there’s room to really coat everything. Drizzle with oil first, then sprinkle on the parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Now go to town tossing like you’re making salad for a very impatient guest. Every pea should look lightly snowed on.
Step 3: Air Frying Process
Crank your air fryer to 375°F and let it preheat—it matters, I promise! Spread the peas in a single layer (no pile-ups or you’ll get steamed peas instead of crispy ones). Set the timer for 8 minutes, shake that basket like you’re mad at it halfway through, then go another 2 minutes if they’re not golden yet. That’s it—snack time!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Want that restaurant-quality crisp every time? Here’s my hard-learned wisdom:
- Peek early: At 8 minutes, pull the basket out and taste one – better slightly underdone than burnt!
- Fresh is best: Frozen peas weep water and turn soggy (learned that the messy way)
- Cheese texture matters: Finely grated parmesan clings better than thick shreds
- Shake reminder: If your air fryer beeps halfway, let that be your cue to give ’em a toss
- Hot basket trick: Preheat the empty basket for 2 minutes – gives that first crisp a head start
And please – let them cool a minute before eating unless you enjoy burning your tongue on molten parmesan (been there).
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Don’t you dare just eat these straight from the basket (okay, maybe once). These crispy peas shine in so many ways:
- Dip duo: Dunk in ranch or garlic aioli – the cool creaminess against that salty crunch is everything
- Protein partner: Toss them next to grilled chicken or salmon for an easy veggie side with attitude
- Party trick: Pile them in a bowl at game night – they disappear faster than chips
- Lunchbox hero: Cooled completely, they make school lunches way more exciting (my kid’s friends always ask for trades)
Pro tip: Double the batch if serving with pasta—they’re amazing crumbled over creamy Alfredo for texture. If you enjoy crispy sides, you might also love these crispy air fryer onion petals.
Storing & Reheating Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Okay, let’s be real – these rarely last long enough to store. But if you miraculously have leftovers, here’s how to keep that crunch: toss them in an airtight container (no plastic bags – they’ll steam themselves sad). They’ll keep for about 2 days max in the fridge. When snack cravings hit again, revive them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes – just enough to wake up that crispy parmesan magic. Microwaving? Don’t even think about it unless you enjoy soggy disappointment.
Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan) Nutrition Info
Let’s be honest—we’re not eating these because they’re “healthy,” but surprise! They kinda are. Per generous 1-cup serving, you’re looking at about 120 calories (that parmesan does most of the heavy lifting). The breakdown: 7g fat (the good kind from olive oil and cheese), 5g protein (thanks, peas!), and only 3g sugar. Bonus: 3g fiber keeps things moving, as my grandma would say.
Dietary perks? Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-carb friendly. These numbers are estimates (your cheese grating enthusiasm may vary), but compared to potato chips? We’re basically health gurus here. For more information on the nutritional benefits of peas, check out resources on dietary guidelines.
FAQs About Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan)
Can I use frozen snap peas? Oh honey, no—they’ll steam instead of crisp and turn into sad little soggy sticks. Fresh is the way to go here.
What’s the best parmesan to use? Grab a wedge and grate it yourself—that pre-shredded stuff has weird additives that make it clump. The fresh stuff melts into crispy perfection. If you are looking for other ways to use fresh parmesan, try these air fryer cheese crisps.
How can I make these spicier? Toss in 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes with the seasoning mix—just enough heat to make your nose tingle without overpowering the peas.
Why aren’t mine getting crispy? You probably overcrowded the basket (guilty!) or skipped the preheat. Give those peas space to breathe!
Print
Crispy 15-Minute Air Fryer Snap Peas (Parmesan) You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy air-fried snap peas with a delicious parmesan coating. A quick and healthy snack or side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups snap peas, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss snap peas with olive oil.
- Add parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Place snap peas in air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Trim snap peas for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Check for doneness at 8 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American