Want a fast and tasty recipe? This crispy air fryer eggplant is perfect. With a few ingredients and your air fryer, you can make crispy, golden brown eggplant slices. They are sure to wow anyone.
The eggplant gets coated in panko, almond flour, and Parmesan. This mix makes them extra crispy. The air fryer cooks them quickly. So, they are crunchy outside and soft inside.
This dish is not just tasty but also healthy. It’s great for those who love quick, air fryer meals or want to eat more veggies. Serve it as a main dish for vegetarians or as a side with your favorite protein.
Try this easy crispy air fryer eggplant recipe. Discover the fun of cooking with an air fryer. It’s quick, easy, and delicious!
Key Takeaways:
- Air fryer eggplant is a quick and easy recipe that delivers crispy and delicious results.
- The eggplant slices are coated in a mixture of panko bread crumbs, almond flour, and Parmesan cheese for extra crispiness and flavor.
- The air fryer quickly cooks the eggplant slices to perfection, resulting in a dish that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- This recipe is a great option for easy air fryer meals and for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.
- Try serving the crispy air fryer eggplant as a vegetarian main course or as a tasty side dish alongside your favorite protein.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe
Get your taste buds ready for a treat with this yummy air fryer eggplant dish. You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make a meal that’s both tasty and good for you. Here’s the scoop:
- 1 large globe eggplant (or 2 small eggplants): Pick fresh, firm eggplants for top-notch flavor.
- Panko bread crumbs: These offer a nice crunch to your eggplant slices.
- Almond flour: A great gluten-free and low-carb breadcrumb alternative.
- Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan): This gives a rich, cheesy taste to the crust.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Makes the eggplant slices crispy and beautifully golden.
- An egg (or vegan substitution): Helps stick all the coating bits together nicely.
- Sea salt and fresh black pepper: Pulls out the eggplant’s flavors wonderfully.
When you combine these ingredients, they create a flavorful, crispy coating. The mix of textures and flavors will make your air-fried eggplant slices unforgettable. This recipe elevates air fryer eggplant to an exciting level of yum.
With everything in place, it’s time to learn how to make your eggplant in the air fryer. Prepare for a delicious cooking journey!
How to Cook Eggplant in the Air Fryer
Making eggplant in the air fryer is easy and quick. Just follow these steps for tasty and crispy air fryer eggplant slices.
Ingredients:
- 1 large globe eggplant (or 2 small eggplants)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan)
- 2 eggs (or vegan substitution)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh black pepper
1. Begin by salting the eggplant and letting it drain for 30 minutes. This removes extra moisture, improving the texture.
Pro Tip: Put the eggplant in a colander and add salt. Let it rest for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse the eggplant slices and pat them dry before you continue.
2. Crack the eggs (or prepare the vegan substitute) in a shallow bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. In another bowl, mix the panko, almond flour, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat each eggplant slice in the egg mixture thoroughly. Next, press it into the breadcrumb mix to cover it well.
4. Put the eggplant slices in the air fryer basket without overlapping. This ensures they cook evenly.
5. Cook at 370°F for 17-20 minutes, flipping halfway. They’re done when golden and crispy.
Pro Tip: Cooking times can change based on the air fryer and eggplant thickness. Watch them to avoid burning.
Enjoy the crispy air fryer eggplant alone or as part of a meal. It’s great with dips like marinara or garlic aioli. You can also add it to salads or sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Eggplant
Air fryer eggplant is tasty and can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s great as a side or the main dish. Here are a few ideas for your next meal:
1. Pair with Veggie Burgers
Add crispy air fryer eggplant on top of veggie burgers. It mixes well with the burger, offering a crunchy texture and good taste. This makes a vegetarian meal more exciting.
2. Serve with Pasta
Make air fryer eggplant the highlight by putting it over pasta. Mix with marinara sauce, and add crispy eggplant on top. Finish with a drizzle of cashew cream for creativity and taste. It’s stunning and full of flavors.
3. Add to Salads
Crispy air fryer eggplant is a tasty addition to salads. It works with cucumber tomato, Greek, Mediterranean quinoa, crunchy Italian, or panzanella salads. The eggplant brings a unique texture and deep flavor, making your salad special.
4. Enjoy as a Side Dish
As a side, air fryer eggplant pairs well with many proteins. It can accompany grilled chicken, fish, or steak. Adding crispy eggplant brings a nice crunch and enhances your dish. It’s also a good way to eat more veggies.
These serving ideas show how air fryer eggplant can improve any meal. Try it in easy air fryer dinners or vegetarian recipes. Air fryer eggplant is a tasty pick.
More Favorite Air Fryer Recipes
If you like to cook with an air fryer, you have lots of recipes to try. You can broaden your cooking skills and try many dishes with this tool. The air fryer is great for those who want to eat healthily or try new tastes. Here are some more air fryer recipes to start with:
Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are crispy, yummy, and good for you. Cut zucchini into thin slices, cover them with breadcrumbs and parmesan, and cook until they’re golden. They are great with ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Make cauliflower tasty and crisp with the air fryer. Mix cauliflower pieces with olive oil and spices, then fry them until they’re tender. They can be a snack, a side, or a veggie main dish.
Crispy Sesame Tofu
Crispy sesame tofu is a great choice for plant-based protein. Marinate tofu pieces, then roll them in cornstarch and sesame seeds. Fry until they are crispy. Enjoy them with rice and veggies for a full meal.
Air Fryer French Fries
It’s hard to say no to crispy French fries. Make them in the air fryer for a guilt-free version. Cut potatoes into sticks, season them, and fry until crispy. They’re perfect with ketchup or your favorite sauce.
Recipe | Description |
---|---|
Zucchini Chips | Crispy, flavorful snack or side dish made from fresh zucchini slices. |
Air Fryer Cauliflower | Tender and crispy cauliflower florets seasoned to perfection. |
Crispy Sesame Tofu | Savory tofu cubes coated in sesame seeds for a satisfying plant-based meal. |
Air Fryer French Fries | Classic French fries made crispy and delicious in the air fryer. |
Try these recipes and see what you like. The air fryer lets you make healthy, tasty food that everyone will enjoy. It’s fast, easy, and makes meals better. Be creative with the air fryer to find new flavors and improve your cooking.
Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe
This crispy air fryer eggplant recipe is loved by many. The slices get a coating of panko crumbs, almond flour, and Parmesan. This mix makes them crispy outside and soft inside when air fried. Plus, the nutty taste of the coating brings extra yum.
Want a tasty and healthy addition to your meals? Try this crispy air fryer eggplant recipe. It’s a light, less oily way to enjoy eggplant. The air fryer makes it super crispy without too much oil. And it’s so easy, you’ll get it done in no time!
“The nutty flavor of the crispy coating pairs perfectly with the tender eggplant slices. It’s a winning combination that will leave you craving more.” – Chef Amy
To make this, slice your eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds. Mix panko crumbs, almond flour, and Parmesan for the coating. Whisk an egg with a pinch of salt in another bowl. Dip the slices in the egg, then in the panko mix. Make sure they’re well coated.
Ingredients:
- 1 large globe eggplant (or 2 small eggplants)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Pinch of salt
When the slices are ready, place them in the air fryer. Cook at 380°F for 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through till they’re golden and crispy.
Eat these crispy slices as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. They go well with dips like marinara or garlic aioli. Or make a tasty veggie sandwich or wrap. Enjoy them any way, this crispy air fryer eggplant will be a hit.
Taste the deliciousness of crispy eggplant slices with this air fryer recipe!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Eggplant
To achieve the perfect crispy air fryer eggplant, follow these tips and tricks:
- Salting the eggplant slices: Before cooking, salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess moisture. The eggplant becomes crispier as a result.
- Dipping in an egg mixture: Dip each slice of eggplant in an egg mixture. Then, coat it with the panko mixture. The egg helps the coating stick to the eggplant. This creates a crispy crust.
- Coating with panko mixture: Use a mixture of panko bread crumbs, almond flour, and Parmesan cheese for the coating. This combo adds a yummy flavor. It also helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Arranging in a single layer: Arrange the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This allows for even cooking. It ensures that each slice gets crispy.
- Flipping halfway through: Flip the eggplant slices halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that both sides brown evenly and become crispy.
- Using a high-quality air fryer: Invest in a high-quality air fryer for the best results. A good air fryer spreads heat evenly. It helps achieve a crispy texture without too much oil.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll make the perfect crispy air fryer eggplant every time. Enjoy this delicious and easy air fryer meal that’s also gluten-free!
Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Eggplant
Air fryer eggplant is tasty and versatile. It’s a great side dish. It goes well with many main dishes. Here are some ideas for your next meal:
Serve with Grilled Chicken, Fish, or Steak
Pair air fryer eggplant with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a great meal. The crispy eggplant matches well with juicy meats. This combo makes for a flavorful dinner.
Add to Sandwiches, Wraps, or Salads
Make vegetarian sandwiches, wraps, or salads better by adding air fryer eggplant. Use crispy slices for a tasty filling. This adds great texture and flavor to your meal.
Use as a Topping for Pizzas or Flatbreads
Top pizzas or flatbreads with air fryer eggplant for a gourmet touch. The crispy slices and sweet taste of eggplant enhance your dishes. It offers a new twist on pizza toppings.
“Air fryer eggplant boosts the taste and creativity of meals. From meats to sandwiches and pizzas, it brings endless possibilities. Your family and friends will be impressed.”
Try different serving ideas with air fryer eggplant. Its crispy texture and tasty flavors make it a great addition to any dish.
Dish | Main Ingredient | Recommended Pairing |
---|---|---|
Grilled Chicken Bowl | Air fryer eggplant | Marinated grilled chicken, brown rice, mixed greens |
Mediterranean Wrap | Air fryer eggplant | Whole wheat wrap, hummus, feta cheese, cucumber, tomatoes |
Flatbread Pizza | Air fryer eggplant | Flatbread crust, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil |
Classic Salad | Air fryer eggplant | Romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, balsamic dressing |
Other Delicious Air Fryer Sides to Try
Looking for new dishes for your air fryer? There’s a ton of tasty sides waiting for you. These recipes are healthy and add something special to your meals. They’re great for vegetarians and anyone wanting to eat better.
Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are a crunchy, yummy snack. Slice zucchini thin, dip in breadcrumbs and spices, and air fry. They’re a healthier option than regular chips. You’ll love them!
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Air-fried cauliflower is a tasty and healthy choice. Mix cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, and spices before air frying. It becomes tender, golden, and full of flavor. It goes well with many main dishes.
Crispy Sesame Tofu
Crispy sesame tofu is great for tofu lovers. Coat tofu cubes with cornstarch, sesame oil, soy sauce, and spices. Air fry until they’re crispy and golden. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed dish.
These air fryer recipes are healthy, vegetarian, and flavorful. They’re easy to make and impress anyone. Try them with your next meal. Enjoy the fun of air frying!
Conclusion
Air fryer eggplant is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional fried dishes. This method lets you cook crispy and tasty eggplant with less oil. Try it as a side or the main event for a meal that’ll be a hit.
Many people love air fryer eggplant for its health benefits. It’s a hit for those looking for tasty vegetarian options. This dish stands out with its crispiness and rich flavor. Serve it with meats or veggies, or enjoy it on its own for a simple, yummy meal. Dive into air frying with this eggplant recipe and enjoy its many perks.
To wrap it up, cooking eggplant in an air fryer is a smart pick for delicious, healthy eating. This quick method gives you crispy, flavorful slices perfect for any meal. Ideal for vegetarians, health enthusiasts, or anyone after an easy meal. This recipe adds versatility to your diet. Enjoy the wonders of air frying with the crispy eggplant recipe.