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Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

This low-calorie air fryer eggplant recipe provides tender, creamy insides and golden, crispy edges, making it a perfect quick side or healthy snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: Healthy, Vegetarian
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 medium eggplant (about 1 lb / 450 g), sliced into ½-inch rounds, cubes, or sticks
  • 1–2 tsp olive oil spray
  • ½ tsp salt (plus optional extra for salting slices) Optional to salt before cooking for a drier surface.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional) Adds a savory finish.
  • fresh herbs, lemon zest, or balsamic glaze for garnish (optional) Enhances flavor when serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash the eggplant, trim off the ends, and slice into uniform ½-inch rounds, cubes, or sticks.
  2. Optionally, sprinkle with a little salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.
Seasoning
  1. In a mixing bowl, toss the eggplant with olive oil spray, ½ tsp salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, along with optional parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the eggplant in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  3. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately while the edges are crispy, garnished with fresh herbs, lemon zest, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Notes

For best results: Cut to a true ½-inch thickness, do not overcrowd the basket, and serve right away for optimal texture.