Description
Crispy, golden air fryer eggplant slices promise Mediterranean magic on your plate. Herb-seasoned and perfectly crunchy, these tender bites deliver restaurant-quality flavor without excess oil, inviting you to savor each delightful Mediterranean-inspired bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Vegetables:
- 1 medium eggplant (about 1 lb or 450 grams)
Seasonings and Spices:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Oils and Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetable by carefully washing and thoroughly drying the eggplant. Slice the eggplant into uniform half-inch thick medallions or cubes, ensuring consistent cooking.
- Eliminate potential bitterness by generously sprinkling salt over the eggplant slices. Allow the vegetable to rest for approximately 20 minutes, which helps draw out excess moisture and reduce sharp flavors.
- Rinse the salted eggplant under cool water and meticulously pat dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess liquid.
- Transfer the eggplant pieces into a spacious mixing bowl. Drizzle with fragrant olive oil and sprinkle a harmonious blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Gently toss the seasoned eggplant to ensure each piece is evenly and thoroughly coated with the aromatic spice mixture.
- Activate the air fryer and set the temperature to 375°F. Allow the appliance to preheat for several minutes, creating an optimal cooking environment.
- Carefully arrange the seasoned eggplant pieces in a single, uncrowded layer within the air fryer basket. Maintain space between pieces to promote even crisping and browning.
- Cook the eggplant for 12-15 minutes, pausing midway to shake the basket and promote uniform cooking. Look for a golden-brown exterior and tender interior.
- During the final two minutes of cooking, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the eggplant for an additional layer of flavor and crispy texture.
- Once cooking is complete, remove the eggplant and let it rest momentarily. Serve immediately alongside marinara sauce, creamy tzatziki, or your preferred dipping accompaniment.
Notes
- Choose firm, glossy eggplants without bruises or soft spots to ensure the best texture and flavor when air frying.
- Salt the eggplant beforehand to remove excess moisture and reduce potential bitterness, creating a crispier and more delicious result.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to guarantee even cooking and achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior with a tender interior.
- Experiment with different spice blends like za’atar, curry powder, or Italian seasoning to transform the eggplant’s flavor profile and keep your meals exciting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg