Meet your new favorite vegetable dish – crispy, golden-brown Air Fryer Eggplant that’s ready in just 20 minutes. This quick and healthy recipe transforms ordinary eggplant into irresistible bites that are tender inside and perfectly crisp outside. With only 95 calories per serving and packed with fiber, it’s a guilt-free side dish that proves healthy eating can be both delicious and effortless.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Eggplant
- Eggplant: 1 medium-sized, fresh and firm to touch
- Oil: 2 tablespoons, preferably olive or vegetable oil
- Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon dried, adds Mediterranean flavor
- Parsley: 1/2 teaspoon dried, for fresh herbal notes
- Basil: 1/2 teaspoon dried, enhances aromatic profile
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon, adds delightful smoky touch
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for savory depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation: Clean the eggplant thoroughly and cut into 1-inch cubes
- Seasoning: Combine eggplant pieces with oil and all seasonings in a bowl, ensuring even coating
- Loading: Transfer the seasoned eggplant to your air fryer basket, spreading them out (stacking is fine)
- Air Frying: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15 minutes, with a gentle shake halfway through
- Serving: Remove from air fryer and serve while hot and crispy
Air Fryer Tips
Hey there! Air frying eggplant is super simple, but here are some helpful tips: Don’t overcrowd your basket – give those eggplant pieces some room to breathe! If you notice your eggplant isn’t browning evenly when you check halfway through, just give the pieces a quick toss. Your eggplant is ready when it’s golden brown and tender when poked with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
This air-fried eggplant makes an amazing side dish or can be the star of your meal! Try it:
- Tossed with fresh pasta and marinara sauce
- Added to grain bowls with quinoa or rice
- Served alongside grilled chicken or fish
- Mixed into fresh salads while still warm
Storage Tips
Made too much? No problem! Let your air-fried eggplant cool completely, then pop it in an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just toss it back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F. The microwave works too, but the air fryer keeps that nice crispy texture!
Quick Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these easy swaps:
- Switch the herbs to Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
- Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese right after cooking
- Use curry powder instead of paprika for an Indian twist
Air Fryer Eggplant
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 medium Eggplant
- 2 T Oil
- 1/2 tsp Oregano dried
- 1/2 tsp Parsley dried
- 1/2 tsp Basil dried
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Wash the eggplant and dice into 1 inch pieces.
- Put eggplant pieces in a bowl, add the oil, herbs, and spices. Stir well to combine.
- Place the eggplant into the air fryer basket or tray. Make sure the eggplant is spread out. It’s okay if it’s stacked because it will shrink while cooking.
- Air Fry the eggplant at 380F/193C for 15 minutes. Shake or stir halfway through the cooking time.
- Enjoy!