Hey there, fellow food lover! If you haven’t yet discovered the wonders of celery root, or celeriac as it’s sometimes called, you’re in for a treat. This humble root vegetable is incredibly versatile and packs a delightful flavor punch, perfect for adding depth to your meals. I love how it transforms into tender, flavorful bites when cooked, especially in an air fryer. Trust me, using an air fryer is a game changer! It not only speeds up the cooking process but also gives the celery root a gorgeous crispy exterior while keeping the inside perfectly tender.
Today, I’m thrilled to share my air fryer celery root celeriac recipe. It’s super simple, and the result is so delicious that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a snack that feels a little fancy, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 medium celery root (celeriac): Make sure to peel it and cut it into cubes—this helps it cook evenly and soak up all that delicious flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This will give the celery root that wonderful richness and help it crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A must for enhancing all the flavors in this dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount to add a little kick without overpowering the natural taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Trust me, it adds a fantastic depth of flavor that you’ll love.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb pairs beautifully with celery root, giving it that warm, earthy aroma.
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because starting with a hot air fryer helps your celery root get that perfect crispy texture.
- While it’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and toss in your peeled and cubed celery root. Drizzle the olive oil over the cubes, then sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Now, here’s where the fun begins! Use your hands (or a spatula if you prefer) to toss everything together until the celery root is well-coated. You want each piece to be enveloped in that tasty mixture.
- Once everything is mixed up nicely, take your air fryer basket and arrange those cubes in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; this allows the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
- Set your timer for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give the basket a good shake to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. I usually find that shaking them around the 10-minute mark works best!
- After the timer goes off, check for tenderness with a fork. They should be fork-tender but not mushy. If they need a little more time, don’t hesitate to toss them back in for a few more minutes!
- When they’re ready, serve them warm. You can enjoy them as a delightful side dish or even a snack on their own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick cooking time: In just about 40 minutes, you can have a delicious side dish ready to go!
- Easy preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic, thyme, and olive oil brings out the natural sweetness of the celery root.
- Healthy and nutritious: Low in calories but high in flavor, this dish is a great addition to any meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even toss it into salads or grain bowls for extra texture and taste!
- Air fryer magic: The air fryer gives the celery root a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender—what’s not to love?
Tips for Success
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut your celery root into evenly sized cubes. This ensures they all cook at the same rate, so you won’t end up with some pieces undercooked while others are perfectly tender.
- Don’t Overcrowd: When you place the cubes in the air fryer, keep them in a single layer with a bit of space in between. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. If you have a lot, cook them in batches!
- Shake It Up: Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking! This little move helps those cubes get that gorgeous golden color all around and prevents sticking.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Since air fryers can vary in how they heat, keep an eye on your celery root as it cooks. If you like a crispier texture, feel free to add a few extra minutes. Just check for tenderness so they don’t overdo it!
- Flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices! I love adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or some fresh rosemary for a different twist. Make this recipe your own!
Variations
- Herb Medley: Switch up the dried thyme with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a vibrant flavor boost. Fresh herbs can really elevate the taste and aroma!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist. It adds a nice heat that complements the sweetness of the celery root.
- Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving to brighten the flavors. The citrusy zing really enhances the earthy notes of the celery root.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate some smoked paprika into the mix for a delightful smoky depth. It pairs wonderfully with the natural flavors and gives it a unique character.
- Cheesy Goodness: For a decadent touch, toss in some nutritional yeast or your favorite grated cheese in the last few minutes of cooking. It melts beautifully and adds a savory richness.
- Asian Twist: Drizzle some soy sauce or sesame oil over the celery root before cooking for an Asian-inspired flavor. You could even sprinkle some sesame seeds on top just before serving!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these delicious air fryer celery root bites ready to go, let’s talk about how to make them shine on your plate! They’re incredibly versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- With Roasted Meats: These crispy celery root pieces pair beautifully with roasted chicken or pork. The earthy flavor of the celery root complements the savory richness of the meat.
- In Salads: Toss them into a fresh salad for a delightful crunch. They work especially well with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. Trust me, they’ll add a unique twist!
- Alongside Grains: Serve them over a bed of quinoa or farro. The nutty flavors of the grains balance perfectly with the sweetness of the celery root.
- With Dips: Enjoy them as a snack with your favorite dips! They’re fantastic with hummus, tzatziki, or even a spicy aioli for a little kick.
- In Grain Bowls: Add them to a grain bowl with roasted veggies, avocado, and a drizzle of tahini. It makes for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s also visually stunning!
- As a Side Dish: Of course, they make a fantastic side dish on their own! Pair them with any main course for an easy and delicious addition to your meal.
Whatever you choose, these air fryer celery root bites are sure to elevate your dining experience. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and let your taste buds guide you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these delicious air fryer celery root bites and have some leftovers? No worries! Storing them properly will keep that flavor and texture intact for your next snacking session.
- Storage: Allow the celery root to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture from building up and keeps them crispy. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the air fryer is your best friend! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and place the celery root bites in the basket. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This will help restore that lovely crispiness!
- Alternative Reheating: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also reheat them in a regular oven. Spread them out on a baking sheet and heat at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to ensure you enjoy those tasty bites just as much the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these air fryer celery root bites! While I always say that the best part of cooking is enjoying the flavors, it’s also nice to be mindful of what we’re eating. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. But overall, these bites are a tasty, low-calorie option that still packs a nutritional punch! Enjoy knowing you’re indulging in something that’s not only delicious but also good for you!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen celery root for this recipe?
While fresh celery root yields the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen if you have it on hand. Just be aware that the texture might be a bit softer. If using frozen, adjust the cooking time accordingly since frozen pieces may take a little longer to cook through.
What can I serve with air fryer celery root bites?
These bites are super versatile! They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, tossed into salads, or even served with dips like hummus or tzatziki. You can also add them to grain bowls for a hearty meal. The possibilities are endless!
How do I know when the celery root is done cooking?
You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender and nicely golden brown on the outside. If they feel soft enough to pierce with a fork but still have some structure, they’re just right! If you’re unsure, just taste one—it’s the best way to check!
Is celery root the same as celery?
Not quite! Celery root, or celeriac, is the bulbous root of the celery plant, while regular celery refers to the stalks we often use in salads or soups. They have distinct flavors and textures—celery root is earthier and more robust compared to the crisp, light taste of celery.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the celery root cubes, season them, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just keep in mind that they’re best served fresh and crispy, so I recommend cooking them close to serving time for that delightful texture!

Air Fryer Celery Root Celeriac Recipe: 7 Flavorful Tips
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple recipe for cooking celery root in an air fryer, resulting in tender and flavorful bites.
Ingredients
- 1 medium celery root (celeriac), peeled and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine the celery root cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Toss until the cubes are evenly coated.
- Place the cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for tenderness and adjust cooking time if necessary.
- Serve warm as a side dish or snack.
Notes
- For added flavor, try other herbs like rosemary or oregano.
- Make sure to cut the celery root into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: air fryer celery root celeriac recipe