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Hey there, kitchen enthusiasts!
Are you looking for a new way to enjoy vegetables? I’ve got a game-changer for you!
Today, I’m diving into a super simple recipe for air fryer eggplant.
It’s crispy, flavorful, and way quicker than roasting in the oven.
Plus, it’s a perfect side dish or snack.
Let’s get that air fryer fired up!
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
Avocado oil can be replaced with olive oil or grapeseed oil, maintaining a similar high smoke point and neutral flavor. These alternatives are widely available and offer comparable health benefits. Eggplant can be substituted with zucchini or yellow squash for a lower-carb option. Cut the squash into similar-sized pieces and adjust cooking time as needed, as squash may cook faster than eggplant. Smoked paprika can be swapped with regular paprika or a mixture of paprika and a pinch of cumin for a similar depth of flavor. If using regular paprika, consider adding a drop of liquid smoke to achieve the smoky taste. For those avoiding nightshades, try using ground coriander or za’atar seasoning instead of paprika to add complexity to the dish.
Preparation Time | 15-30 minutes |
Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes |
Total Time | 30-50 minutes |
Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 3-5 g
- Fat: 18-22 g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 g
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant (peeled as desired and diced into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon rosemary, dried
- 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (extra for salting eggplant)
- 1/2 teaspoon powdered garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Step 1: Prepare and Salt the Eggplant
Begin by spreading cubed eggplant out on a large flat surface.
Generously salt the eggplant with Kosher salt and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
This step helps to draw out excess moisture and reduce any bitterness.
Afterward, pat the eggplant dry with a paper towel or kitchen cloth to absorb the moisture.
Step 2: Coat the Eggplant with Oil
Transfer the dried eggplant cubes to a large bowl.
Drizzle with avocado oil, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
Toss them in the bowl gently to ensure even coverage of the oil across all the eggplant cubes.
Step 3: Season the Eggplant
Add your chosen spices to the bowl with the oil-coated eggplant.
Stir the mixture until the spices are evenly distributed and each piece of eggplant is well-seasoned.
Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant
Set your air fryer to 400°F.
Arrange the seasoned eggplant in the air fryer either on trays or in the basket, depending on the model.
Air fry for about 18 minutes.
If you are using a basket model, make sure to toss the eggplant halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning.
Step 5: Serve the Eggplant
Once the eggplant is cooked to a crispy-tender texture and golden brown color, remove it from the air fryer.
For best results, serve the air-fried eggplant immediately while it’s still crispy and hot.
Enjoy your flavorful and healthy dish!