Description
This Low-Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant recipe offers a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy tender, perfectly seasoned eggplant with a crispy edge. Utilizing an air fryer ensures minimal oil use while maximizing taste, making it a quick, nutritious side dish or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Eggplant Preparation
- 1 large eggplant, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for salting)
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon powdered garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Salt the Eggplant: Place the diced eggplant in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with kosher salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, rinse the eggplant thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel to remove residual moisture.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a large bowl, mix together the avocado oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, powdered garlic, smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt until well combined. Add the dried eggplant cubes and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry the Eggplant: Arrange the seasoned eggplant cubes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to promote crispiness. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the eggplant is golden brown and tender, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Salting the eggplant helps to reduce moisture and bitterness while improving crispiness.
- Ensure the eggplant pieces are in a single layer in the air fryer basket to avoid steaming.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- This recipe pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a healthy snack.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
