Air Fried Eggplant

When I first stumbled upon the idea of Air Fried Eggplant, I never would have imagined how transformative it could be. As someone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, I was always on the lookout for ways to enjoy my favorite foods in a healthier format. One day, I had a beautiful eggplant sitting on my countertop, and I decided it was time to give it the attention it deserved. With just a few simple ingredients, I created a dish that has since become a staple in my home.

The crispy texture of the air-fried eggplant is simply irresistible. You can savor it as a snack, a side dish, or even as a main course. The slight bitterness of the eggplant is perfectly balanced with the aromatic spices and the richness of the olive oil. Every time I make Air Fried Eggplant, I’m reminded of how versatile this vegetable can be. Friends and family are always surprised at how delicious it turns out, and I love sharing this easy recipe with them.

It’s amazing how something so simple can bring such joy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or just craving something crispy and flavorful, Air Fried Eggplant is always a winner. I often find myself recommending this dish to anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet without sacrificing flavor. You truly have to try it for yourself!

What’s In This Air Fried Eggplant

The ingredients for Air Fried Eggplant work together harmoniously to create a dish that bursts with flavor and texture. The eggplant serves as the star of the show, while olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that crispy exterior. The spices elevate the taste profile, making each bite a delightful experience.

• 1 eggplant – This versatile vegetable is the foundation of the dish. When cut into cubes, it absorbs flavors beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – This not only helps with cooking but also infuses the dish with a luscious flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary – Adds a fragrant aroma and earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the rosemary and enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon Hungarian paprika – Introduces a subtle smokiness and a hint of color.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the eggplant.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a touch of spice and depth.

Instructions for Air Fried Eggplant

Making Air Fried Eggplant is a breeze and can be done in just a few simple steps. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Begin by preparing your eggplant. Trim off the ends to create a stable base for slicing. This will help you handle it securely while cutting.
2. Using a large chef’s knife, slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin, uniform slices about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the slices are even for consistent cooking.
3. Once you’ve sliced the eggplant, use a paring knife to peel the skin off. This step is crucial for achieving a tender texture in the final dish.
4. Stack the peeled slices and cut them into approximately 1/2-inch cubes. Aim for consistency in size to ensure even cooking.
5. Next, place a paper towel onto a large baking sheet and lay the cubes of eggplant in a single layer. Generously sprinkle salt over them to draw out moisture.
6. Let the salted eggplant stand for 15 minutes. This helps remove excess water, allowing for better crisping in the air fryer.
7. After 15 minutes, blot the top of the eggplant with another piece of paper towel to soak up the moisture. Discard the paper towels.
8. Transfer the cubed and dried eggplant to a mixing bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir well to coat the cubes evenly.
9. Now it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in the dried rosemary, dried thyme, Hungarian paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-seasoned.
10. Set your air fryer to the Air Crisp function at 400 degrees. Once it’s preheated, add the seasoned eggplant to the air fryer basket.
11. Cook the eggplant for 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
12. After cooking, carefully remove the eggplant from the air fryer. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

To ensure you achieve the best results with Air Fried Eggplant, here are some helpful tips:

• Storage: Leftover Air Fried Eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked eggplant, but it may lose some texture. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Air Fried Eggplant pairs beautifully with marinara sauce as a dip or can be served alongside grain bowls for a hearty meal.
• Seasonal Variations: Feel free to add seasonal herbs or spices to the recipe depending on what you have available, such as fresh basil or oregano.
• Cooking Times: Adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of your eggplant cubes. Smaller cubes will cook faster, so keep an eye on them.

Serving Ideas for Air Fried Eggplant

Now that you’ve mastered Air Fried Eggplant, let’s explore some fantastic ways to serve it:

• As a Snack: Enjoy it straight out of the air fryer with a sprinkle of sea salt for a satisfying, guilt-free treat.
• In Salads: Toss the crispy eggplant into salads for added texture and flavor. It pairs well with greens, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
• With Dips: Serve Air Fried Eggplant with dips like hummus or tzatziki for a delightful appetizer or finger food.
• Grain Bowls: Build a nourishing grain bowl by layering quinoa or brown rice with roasted vegetables and topped with air-fried eggplant.
• For Dinner Parties: Impress your guests by serving Air Fried Eggplant as part of a tapas spread, alongside other small bites.
• Casual Gatherings: Perfect for casual get-togethers, serve it on a platter with assorted dips and fresh vegetables for a colorful and healthy appetizer.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Air Fried Eggplant is a fantastic way to enjoy this versatile vegetable while keeping things healthy and simple. The crispy texture and rich flavors will make it a favorite in your home.

Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try! It’s easy to make and will quickly become a staple in your weeknight meal rotation.

Air Fried Eggplant

The ultimate comfort food, Air Fried Eggplant transforms a humble vegetable into a crispy delight. Perfect for snacking or as a vibrant side dish, this recipe is an easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and indulge in the deliciousness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 23 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 1 eggplant please see below how to cut into 1/2 inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon Hungarian paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Begin by preparing your eggplant. Trim off the ends to create a stable base for slicing. This will help you handle it securely while cutting.
• Using a large chef’s knife, slice the eggplant lengthwise into thin, uniform slices about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the slices are even for consistent cooking.
• Once you’ve sliced the eggplant, use a paring knife to peel the skin off. This step is crucial for achieving a tender texture in the final dish.
• Stack the peeled slices and cut them into approximately 1/2-inch cubes. Aim for consistency in size to ensure even cooking.
• Next, place a paper towel onto a large baking sheet and lay the cubes of eggplant in a single layer. Generously sprinkle salt over them to draw out moisture.
• Let the salted eggplant stand for 15 minutes. This helps remove excess water, allowing for better crisping in the air fryer.
• After 15 minutes, blot the top of the eggplant with another piece of paper towel to soak up the moisture. Discard the paper towels.
• Transfer the cubed and dried eggplant to a mixing bowl. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir well to coat the cubes evenly.
• Now it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in the dried rosemary, dried thyme, Hungarian paprika, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-seasoned.
• Set your air fryer to the Air Crisp function at 400 degrees. Once it’s preheated, add the seasoned eggplant to the air fryer basket.
• Cook the eggplant for 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• After cooking, carefully remove the eggplant from the air fryer. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftover Air Fried Eggplant can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked eggplant, but it may lose some texture. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Tip 3: Air Fried Eggplant pairs beautifully with marinara sauce as a dip or can be served alongside grain bowls for a hearty meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add seasonal herbs or spices to the recipe depending on what you have available, such as fresh basil or oregano.
• Tip 5: Adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of your eggplant cubes. Smaller cubes will cook faster, so keep an eye on them.

Keyword Crispy Eggplant Recipe, Healthy Air Fryer Recipes, Mediterranean Eggplant, Vegetable Side Dishes

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.