Air Fryer Eggplant!

Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or spray oil)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

• Parmesan cheese (optional, for sprinkling after cooking)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the eggplant:

   • Wash and dry the eggplant. Slice it into rounds (about 1/4 inch thick) or cut it into wedges, depending on your preference.

2. Season the eggplant:

   • Place the sliced eggplant in a large bowl.

   • Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly with cooking spray to coat the slices evenly.

   • Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss well to ensure all the slices are evenly coated with the seasoning.

3. Preheat the air fryer:

   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

4. Air fry the eggplant:

   • Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices or wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket—if necessary, cook in batches.

   • Air fry the eggplant at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The eggplant should be golden and crispy on the outside while tender inside.

5. Serve and garnish:

   • Once done, remove from the air fryer and transfer to a plate.

   • Optional: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

   • Serve immediately as a side dish, snack, or appetizer!

Q&A

Q: Can I use other seasonings for the eggplant?
A: Yes! You can get creative with the seasoning. Try adding Italian seasoning, chili powder, or even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar after cooking for a different flavor profile.

Q: Do I need to peel the eggplant before air frying?
A: No, you don’t need to peel the eggplant. The skin helps hold the slices together and adds texture. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel it before slicing.

Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the eggplant in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the slices on a baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How can I make this dish vegan?
A: The recipe is already vegan if you skip the Parmesan cheese. You can sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Q: Can I make the eggplant extra crispy?
A: Yes! For even crispier eggplant, you can add a light dusting of breadcrumbs or panko before air frying. Just coat the slices with the seasoning, then dip them into breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.