Five reasons to own an air fryer

by  Tara Sallee, MS, RD, LD, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian
 

​     Summer is here! In addition to high temperatures, the summer season brings busy schedules filled with family-fun activities. This summer, spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the outdoors with family and friends. 
     Using an air fryer, you can spend less time preparing meals while still providing healthy options that your family will love.
     What is an air fryer? An air fryer is an appliance that works like a more powerful countertop convection oven. It can do the job of multiple appliances in one, while taking up minimal countertop space. Air fryers can be found in a wide price range, available for every budget. Investing in an air fryer can offer you and your family a variety of benefits.
 
Here are five reasons to own an air fryer:
     Healthy Twist: Minimize your oil usage, while still getting a nice crisp finish on your favorite foods. By minimizing your use of oil, you will also be able to better control your calorie intake.
     Time Saver: Busy families can always benefit from time-saving appliances. Using an air fryer will be quicker and cleaner than cooking by oven or frying in a pan.
     Easy to Use: This appliance is very user friendly with only a few buttons needed to control it. They also often come with a user manual that gives you time and temperature guidance for a variety of foods.
     Versatility: Air fryers come in a variety of sizes and can be used to cook almost any food including meats, fruits, vegetables and even baked goods.
     Keep Things Cool: It’s hot enough in the summer, so we don’t want to heat things up even more with our meal prep. The air fryer will cook your meal without creating a sauna out of your kitchen.
     Cooking at home is an important part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. The air fryer can be a healthy and affordable way to help you with meal prep, making it easier to continue cooking at home.
     If you have more questions regarding your or your family’s personal nutrition needs, contact your local Hy-Vee dietitian. You can find out more about the nutrition services available at www.hy-vee.com/health.
 
     The information in this article is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
     Tara Sallee is a Hy-Vee corporate dietitian dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. Tara received a Bachelor degree in dietetics and nutrition from Missouri State University. Tara went on to attend Kansas University Medical Center where she received her Master of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition and completed her dietetics internship.
     She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. With a passion for nutrition and wellness, Tara is dedicated to educating customers and promoting healthy lifestyles.