Air Fryer Eggplant

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—this Air Fryer Eggplant is a light, delicious way to enjoy one of the most versatile vegetables. With a golden crust and soft center, these eggplant rounds are perfect as a snack, side dish, or even the star of your meal. No deep frying required—just your air fryer, a few pantry staples, and 15 minutes!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Without the Oil – Light and satisfying with less grease
Fast & Easy – Ready in just 15–20 minutes
Versatile – Serve as a side, snack, or part of a main dish
Healthy & Plant-Based – Naturally vegan and low in carbs
Delicious with Dips – Pair with marinara, tzatziki, or tahini

Ingredients You’ll Need
1 medium eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional for topping)

Optional Coating for Crispier Texture
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 egg, beaten (or use olive oil for vegan version)

Optional Dipping Sauces
Marinara sauce
Ranch or garlic aioli
Tahini or hummus
Spicy yogurt dip

Tools You’ll Need
Air fryer
Knife and cutting board
Mixing bowl
Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant
Wash and slice eggplant into ½-inch thick rounds.
Optional: Lightly salt both sides and let sit for 15 minutes to draw out bitterness. Pat dry before cooking.

Step 2: Season or Bread
Option 1: Simple Seasoning
Toss eggplant slices in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Option 2: Crispy Coating
Dip slices in beaten egg (or brush with olive oil), then coat with breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant
Place slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd—work in batches if needed.
Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
Sprinkle with Parmesan during the last 2 minutes for extra flavor, if using.

Step 5: Serve Hot
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of your main dish.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Eggplant
Don’t Skip the Salt Rest – Helps remove moisture and bitterness
Slice Evenly – Ensures uniform cooking
Don’t Overcrowd – Allows air to circulate and crisp all sides
Make It Vegan – Skip the cheese and use plant-based dip
Sprinkle with Herbs – Add fresh basil, parsley, or oregano before serving

Serving Suggestions
As a side to grilled meats or pasta
In sandwiches or wraps with hummus and greens
Topped with marinara and cheese for air fryer eggplant parm
With a grain bowl or quinoa salad

How to Store & Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness
Avoid microwaving—it softens the texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use eggplant without peeling it?
Yes! The skin softens when cooked and adds texture and nutrients.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely—use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the breading entirely.

Can I add cheese on top?
Yes! Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
Use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or almond flour for crunch.

Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Eggplant is an easy way to enjoy a nutritious veggie with tons of flavor and texture. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with toppings and dips, it’s a delicious, no-fuss addition to any meal. Crispy, tender, and ready in minutes—what more could you want?

Try it once and you’ll be air frying eggplant on repeat!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 servings):
Calories: 110 | Protein: 2g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 210mg

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