Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

This Air Fryer Eggplant recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable! Imagine tender eggplant slices with a crispy Parmesan cheese crust and a hint of Italian seasoning. This recipe is perfect for a healthy and flavorful side dish or a satisfying snack. The air fryer makes it incredibly simple to achieve that perfect crispy texture without the need for excessive oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
  • Healthy and Flavorful: Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying, as it uses less oil. The eggplant is seasoned simply with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for a delicious and satisfying flavor.
  • Versatile: Serve these eggplant slices as a side dish, an appetizer, or a snack. They’re also great for adding to sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
  • Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the eggplant tender and flavorful.

Ingredients

  • Eggplant: Choose a medium-sized eggplant that’s firm and free of blemishes.
  • Olive oil: Used to coat the eggplant slices and help the seasonings adhere.
  • Sea salt: Enhances the flavor of the eggplant.
  • Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a crispy and flavorful crust.
  • Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs and spices for a delicious flavor.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Air Fryer Eggplant

Step 1: Preheat and Slice

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplant crosswise into circles, about ½ inch thick. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Season the Eggplant

Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with sea salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Air Fry the Eggplant

Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the eggplant is soft and the cheese is golden brown and crispy. If necessary, repeat in batches with the remaining eggplant slices, ensuring not to overcrowd the basket.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the Air Fryer Eggplant immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Slice evenly: Slice the eggplant into even thicknesses to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding the basket will prevent the eggplant from crisping up properly.
  • Adjust cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the eggplant slices and your air fryer model.
  • Add extra flavor: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

This Air Fryer Eggplant is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

  • Side Dish: Serve the eggplant slices as a side dish with your favorite protein and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Appetizer: Arrange the eggplant slices on a platter with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an easy and delicious appetizer.
  • Snack: Enjoy the eggplant slices on their own as a healthy and flavorful snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Eggplant is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover eggplant slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended, as the eggplant may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can! Try using grated mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the air fryer? Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be delicious additions.

3. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Yes, you can! You can bake the eggplant slices in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.

4. Can I use breadcrumbs instead of Parmesan cheese? Yes, you can! Coat the eggplant slices in breadcrumbs for a different texture.

This Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With its simple preparation, healthy cooking method, and endless possibilities, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Air Fryer Eggplant recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable! Tender eggplant slices are seasoned with Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs, then air-fried to perfection for a crispy and flavorful side dish or appetizer.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 medium eggplant, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Slice the eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds. Pat the slices dry with paper towels.
  2. Season: Brush eggplant slices with olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Air Fry: Arrange eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until softened and golden brown. Repeat in batches as needed.

Notes

  • For best results, use an eggplant that is firm and heavy for its size.
  • If your eggplant is very large, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
  • Serve as a side dish, appetizer, or use in your favorite eggplant recipes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 slices (¼ of recipe)
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

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