Hello there! If you’re new to the world of air fryers and wondering where to start, the first thing you should cook in your air fryer is a batch of crispy french fries. Air fryers are known for their ability to create deliciously crispy foods with just a fraction of the oil typically used in traditional frying methods. By starting with something simple like french fries, you’ll quickly see the magic of your air fryer and gain the confidence to try out more intricate recipes in the future. Happy cooking!

What Is The First Thing I Should Cook In My Air Fryer?

So, you’ve just purchased your first air fryer and you’re ready to start cooking up some delicious meals. But where do you begin? What is the first thing you should cook in your new appliance? In this guide, we’ll walk you through some easy and delicious recipes to get you started on your air frying journey.

Basic Tips for Getting Started

Before we dive into specific recipes, let’s cover some basic tips for getting started with your air fryer.

First, make sure to preheat your air fryer before adding your food. This will ensure that your food cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

Also, be mindful of the cooking times and temperatures recommended for each recipe. It’s important to follow these guidelines to achieve optimal results.

Lastly, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave some room between each piece of food to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

Now that we have these basic tips covered, let’s move on to the fun part – cooking your first meal in your air fryer!

Crispy Chicken Wings

One of the most popular dishes to cook in an air fryer is crispy chicken wings. They come out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Start by seasoning your chicken wings with your favorite spices. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook at 380°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Once they are done, toss them in your favorite sauce (buffalo, BBQ, or garlic parmesan are some popular options) and serve with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables in an air fryer is a game-changer. They come out perfectly caramelized and crispy, with very little oil needed.

Simply chop your favorite vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms) into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out in the air fryer basket.

Cook at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The result? Perfectly roasted vegetables that are great on their own or as a side dish to accompany any meal.

Homemade French Fries

Who doesn’t love a good batch of crispy, homemade French fries? With an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunchy exterior and fluffy interior without all the oil used in traditional frying methods.

Start by cutting your potatoes into thin strips. Soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Pat them dry and toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Cook at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Once they are golden brown and crispy, season with more salt and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Salmon

Salmon is another dish that turns out beautifully in an air fryer. It’s quick, easy, and packed full of flavor.

Start by seasoning your salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Place them skin-side down in the air fryer basket.

Cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The result? Perfectly cooked salmon that is tender and flaky. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.

Dessert Time: Air Fryer Churros

Yes, you read that right – you can even make dessert in your air fryer! These air fryer churros are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and oh so delicious.

Start by making a simple choux pastry dough and placing it in a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe strips of dough into the air fryer basket.

Cook at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy. Toss them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while they are still warm. Serve with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping.

Experiment and Have Fun!

The best way to get comfortable with your air fryer is to experiment and have fun with it. Don’t be afraid to try out new recipes and techniques to see what works best for you.

And remember, the more you use your air fryer, the better you’ll become at cooking with it. So, go ahead and get started on your air frying journey – you’ll be a pro in no time!

Enjoy your first cooking adventure in your air fryer!