Grilled Eggplant Perfection With An Air Fryer

Grilling eggplant in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to cook this tasty vegetable. The air fryer gives the eggplant a crispy texture on the outside and a soft and tender texture in the middle. This method of cooking eggplant is also versatile, as it can be used in many different recipes, including salads, dips, and main dishes.

How to prepare the eggplant for grilling in an air fryer

Preparing eggplant for grilling in an air fryer is simple and requires just a few steps. Here's a detailed guide to help you achieve the best results:

Step 1: Wash and Cut the Eggplant

Begin by washing the eggplants to remove any dirt or residue. Dry them thoroughly before cutting. You can cut the eggplant in half, or slice it into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference and the dish you're preparing. Some recipes call for 1/2-inch thick slices or 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Salt the Eggplant (Optional)

Although this step is optional, salting the eggplant can help draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Sprinkle salt generously on both sides of the eggplant slices or cubes and let them rest for about 15-30 minutes. Use paper towels to pat the eggplant dry and remove any excess moisture before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Season the Eggplant

Brush both sides of the eggplant slices or cubes with olive oil or avocado oil. You can also use a high smoke point oil of your choice. Make sure to coat the eggplant evenly.

Now, it's time to add your favourite seasonings. You can use a variety of spices and herbs such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, chili flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, basil, or thyme. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favourite flavour profile.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to the recommended temperature, which is typically between 370-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Please refer to your specific air fryer's instructions for the best results.

Step 5: Arrange the Eggplant in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned eggplant in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure the pieces don't overlap or crowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the eggplant in batches to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Cook the Eggplant

Now, it's time to grill! Air fry the eggplant for about 12-20 minutes, depending on your air fryer's settings and the thickness of your eggplant slices or cubes. Remember to flip the eggplant halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and browning. Keep an eye on your eggplant to avoid overcooking, as this can make it dry and tough.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your eggplant is grilled to perfection, transfer it to a plate and serve it hot. You can enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or incorporate it into salads, pasta dishes, or dips.

That's it! You now have perfectly grilled eggplant prepared in your air fryer. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and serving suggestions to find your favourite combinations. Enjoy!

What temperature and time settings to use

The ideal temperature and time settings for grilling eggplant in an air fryer will depend on the type of dish you are preparing. Here are some guidelines and suggestions:

Air Fryer Settings for Grilled Eggplant:

• For grilled eggplant slices or cubes, a temperature setting of between 370-400 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended.
• The cooking time can vary from 10-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the eggplant and your desired level of doneness.
• It is important to flip the eggplant halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
• For best results, arrange the eggplant in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Additional Tips for Optimal Results:

• Before cooking, consider salting the eggplant and letting it rest for 15-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step can enhance the flavor and texture of the final dish.
• Pat the eggplant dry with paper towels or a kitchen towel after salting and before placing it in the air fryer.
• Brush the eggplant with oil before air frying. This will help to create a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
• You can also experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Some popular options include Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• For a cheesy twist, try sprinkling grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese during the final minutes of cooking.

These guidelines will help you achieve delicious grilled eggplant in your air fryer, but feel free to adjust the temperature and time settings based on your specific air fryer model and your personal preferences.

What oil to use

When grilling eggplant in an air fryer, it is recommended to use a high smoke point oil such as avocado oil or olive oil. You can also use extra virgin olive oil, but it is not recommended to use it in an olive oil spray as it may burn. The amount of oil used is important as too much can make the eggplant greasy. The oil is also important for flavour and to carry the fat-soluble vitamins in vegetables.

What seasonings to use

There are many different seasonings that can be used to add flavour to grilled eggplant in an air fryer. Here are some ideas:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Oregano
• Garlic powder
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Lemon juice
• Parsley
• Sumac
• Za'atar
• Cayenne
• Red pepper
• Basil
• Thyme
• Smoked paprika
• Chili flakes
• Mozzarella cheese
• Almond flour
• Pecorino cheese
• Flaxseed

How to serve grilled eggplant

Grilled eggplant is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways, whether as a side dish, appetiser, or part of a main course. Here are some ideas on how to serve grilled eggplant:

As a Side Dish

Grilled eggplant slices can be served as a delicious and healthy side dish to complement a variety of main courses. They go well with protein-packed dishes like Mediterranean chicken or a classic pot roast. You can also serve them with a dip, such as marinara sauce, basil tomato sauce, or tzatziki, for a tasty appetiser or snack.

In a Salad

Grilled eggplant is an excellent addition to salads, providing a smoky twist to your dish. Cut the eggplant lengthwise, brush with olive oil, and grill over medium-high heat until nicely charred. Then, drizzle with a mustard and herb vinaigrette and top with microgreens. You can also chop the grilled eggplant and add it to a salad with other grilled vegetables, such as zucchini and peppers, tossed in a balsamic and apple cider vinaigrette.

As an Appetiser

Grilled eggplant can be a tasty appetiser for your guests. Try making grilled mini eggplant pizzas or eggplant pesto roll-ups. For the pizzas, slice the eggplant and use them as a base, topping them with your favourite pizza ingredients. For the roll-ups, grill the eggplant slices and then stuff them with a mixture of pesto, ricotta, and lemon juice.

As a Main Course

Grilled eggplant can be the star of your meal. Try making grilled eggplant parmesan, where you combine grilled eggplant with blistered cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, burrata cheese, breadcrumbs, and fresh basil. You can also make grilled eggplant gyros by stuffing a warm pita with gyro-spiced grilled eggplant, red onion slices, tomatoes, herbs, and tzatziki. For a vegan option, replace the tzatziki with tahini.

With Grains

Grilled eggplant is a tasty addition to cooked grains like quinoa or bulgur. You can also add it to pasta dishes, such as an eggplant pomodoro pasta, topped with parmesan, black pepper, and fresh parsley. For a more substantial meal, serve the grilled eggplant with pasta, scoops of tomato sauce, dollops of cashew cream, basil, red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Frequently asked questions