Air-Fried Asparagus with Lemongrass Chili Sauce | Easy Thai-Inspired Vegan Side

Enjoy the bright, tangy flavor of lemongrass chili in this quick Thai asparagus recipe. Ready in minutes, this vibrant side dish brings authentic Thai taste to seasonal vegetables with Watcharee’s Lemongrass Chili Sauce.

When asparagus season arrives in Maine, I love using these tender stalks in quick, flavorful dishes that celebrate their natural sweetness. One of my favorite ways to prepare them is in the air fryer — a simple step that gives the asparagus a light char and a deeper, nuttier flavor. Purple asparagus, with its beautiful color and subtle sweetness, makes this dish even more striking on the table.

Quick to make, full of color, and bursting with bold Thai flavor — this recipe is proof that even the simplest vegetables can shine when paired with the right sauce.

Author

Watcharee Limanon

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Servings

3

Category

Side Dish

Cuisine

Thai Fusion

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup Watcharee’s Thai Lemongrass Chili Sauce
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus (green or purple), trimmed
• 1 wedge of lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil mister or 1 tbs of oil

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) if needed.
2. Trim the asparagus and pat dry. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Mist with oil mister or brush with oil
5. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking halfway through, Brush with Lemongrass Chili sauce and cook until slightly charred and tender-crisp.
6. Remove and toss with Watcharee’s Lemongrass Chili Sauce while still warm.
7. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime and serve immediately.