Air Fryer Eggplant

Welcome to the world of air frying, where health meets flavor in the form of delicious, crispy dishes. Our Air Fryer Eggplant recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, yet flavorful side dish or snack. Not only does this recipe make use of a trusty air fryer, but it also ensures that each slice of eggplant comes out perfectly crispy without being drenched in oil. Within just 32 minutes, you can have a plate full of crispy, savory slices that are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Eggplant

• Best way to make Air Fryer Eggplant at home without any mess or fuss.
• Easy Air Fryer Eggplant for beginners due to its straightforward steps and minimal ingredients.
• Only 32 minutes to make! Perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
• Great for meal prep and stays crispy even when reheated.
• Perfect for a variety of dietary needs – easily adaptable for vegan or gluten-free preferences.

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  Ingredients for Air Fryer Eggplant

  Creating the perfect crispy eggplant requires just a handful of essential ingredients that you might already have in your pantry:

• 1 medium eggplant – look for a firm, shiny skin.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – or a cooking spray for less oil use.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – essential for that savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – for drawing out moisture; adjust to taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a classic seasoning touch.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – adds a mild heat and color.
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping – use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

  Dietary Swaps:

• For a gluten-free option, ensure all spices are certified gluten-free.
• To make it vegan, skip the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or another plant-based cheese alternative.

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  How to Make Air Fryer Eggplant – Step by Step

   

  Preparing the Eggplant

   

  1. Wash and Slice:
     • Start by thoroughly washing the eggplant. Cut off the ends and slice it into uniform, 1/2-inch thick rounds. This ensures even cooking.
  2. Salt and Rest:
     • Place the slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which is crucial for crispiness.
  3. Rinse and Dry:
     • Rinse the slices under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the oil and spices adhere well.
       

       Seasoning and Cooking

        

  4. Mix Seasoning:
     • In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. This mix infuses the eggplant with flavor.
  5. Coat the Eggplant:
     • Toss the dry eggplant slices in the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  6. Preheat Air Fryer:
     • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
  7. Cook in Batches:
     • Arrange the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
  8. Add Cheese:
     • If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) over the slices during the last two minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish.
       

       Final Touches

        

  9. Serve Hot:
     • Remove from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Enjoy them while they’re hot and crispy!

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       Pro Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Eggplant

        

• Cooking Hack: For an ultra-crispy texture, after salting, give the slices a light pat with more salt before rinsing to ensure all moisture is drawn out.
• Can I make Air Fryer Eggplant ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the slices and seasoning mix in advance; just air fry when ready to serve.
• What is the secret to the best Air Fryer Eggplant? Always ensure the eggplant slices are well-dried before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness.

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  Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Eggplant

   

• Pair with our [Garlic Yogurt Dip Recipe] for a refreshing contrast to the seasoned eggplant.
• Consider adding these crispy slices to a [Fresh Greek Salad] or wrap for a protein-packed meal.
• The best way to serve Air Fryer Eggplant is with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, to add a burst of freshness.

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  Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Eggplant

   

• Calories: 145 kcal
• Carbs: 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 11g

  This recipe is perfect for a low-carb diet and is rich in dietary fiber and essential vitamins from the eggplant.

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  Storage & Leftovers

   

• How long does Air Fryer Eggplant last in the fridge? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing Guidance: Lay the cooked slices on a baking sheet to freeze separately before transferring them to a ziplock bag.
• Reheating Method: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to retain crispiness.

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  4 FAQs for Air Fryer Eggplant

  1. Can I freeze Air Fryer Eggplant?
  Yes, but for best results, freeze them immediately after cooling without any toppings.

  2. What can I use instead of olive oil in Air Fryer Eggplant?
  Use avocado oil or a quality cooking spray for a lighter option.

  3. Can I add more spices to my Air Fryer Eggplant?
  Absolutely, feel free to add Italian herbs or a pinch of chili powder for extra flavor.

  4. How do I prevent my eggplant from being too bitter?
  Properly salting and resting the eggplant before cooking will help reduce bitterness and improve flavor.

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