Air-Fryer Eggplant — Is It Worth The Hype?

Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways, and air frying is one of the quickest and easiest methods. Air fryer eggplants are not only delicious but also healthy, vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. You can make them in a variety of ways, including slicing them into sticks, rounds, or cubes, and seasoning them with different spices and sauces. The key to getting crispy and evenly cooked eggplant is to cut them into uniform pieces, not overcrowd the air fryer basket, and flip them halfway through cooking.

How to cut eggplant for the air fryer

To cut an eggplant for the air fryer, you'll want to start by removing the leafy top. This will give you more to hold on to as you slice. Then, cut the eggplant crosswise to make circles that are about half an inch thick. If you're making a recipe that calls for cubed eggplant, cut the eggplant into lengthwise slabs, then stack these slabs and cut them into long strips before cutting them crosswise again into cubes.

If you're making a recipe that calls for breaded eggplant slices, you'll want to cut the eggplant into slightly thicker slices, about a quarter of an inch thick.

How to season eggplant for the air fryer

Seasoning eggplant for the air fryer is a simple process that can be done in a few different ways, depending on your taste preferences. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season eggplant for the air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Cut the eggplant into uniform slices or cubes. For slices, aim for a thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2-inch. For cubes, cut the eggplant into 1-inch pieces. Removing the skin is optional, as it is edible.

Step 2: Salt the Eggplant (Optional)

Salting the eggplant before cooking can help remove excess liquid and create a crispier texture. If you choose to do this, sprinkle the slices or cubes with salt and let them rest for about 15-30 minutes. Then, use paper towels to pat them dry and remove any excess moisture.

Step 3: Choose Your Seasonings

You can use a variety of seasonings to add flavor to your eggplant. Here are some options:

• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Red chili flakes
• Thyme
• Basil
• Oregano
• Rosemary
• Parmesan cheese
• Almond flour
• Panko bread crumbs

Step 4: Coat the Eggplant

Place the eggplant slices or cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle them with oil and toss until they are well coated. You can use avocado oil, olive oil, or another high smoke point oil.

Step 5: Apply Seasonings

Sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the oiled eggplant, tossing or brushing to ensure they are evenly coated. Don't be afraid to be generous with your seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Step 6: Air Fry the Eggplant

Preheat your air fryer to 375-400°F. Place the seasoned eggplant in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 12-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked eggplant to a plate and serve while it's still warm. You can sprinkle it with fresh herbs like parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Feel free to experiment with different seasoning combinations to find your favorite flavor profile for air fryer eggplant. Enjoy!

How long to cook eggplant in the air fryer

There are a few different ways to cook eggplant in an air fryer, depending on the kind of dish you want to make. Here is a step-by-step guide for each method.

Air Fryer Eggplant Slices

Ingredients:

• 1 large or 2 small eggplants
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, basil, or oregano.

Method:

• Cut the eggplant into 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch thick slices.
• Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit in a colander for 30 minutes to drain.
• Pat the slices dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
• Drizzle or brush both sides of the slices with olive oil.
• Sprinkle the slices with black pepper and any other desired seasonings.
• Preheat the air fryer to 370°F or 400°F.
• Place the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Air fry for 12-20 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. The eggplant is done when it is crispy and well-browned.

Air Fryer Breaded Eggplant Slices

Ingredients:

• 1 large or 2 small eggplants
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, pecorino, or vegan Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, or 1/4 cup nut milk mixed with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed for a vegan option
• Sea salt and black pepper
• Extra-virgin olive oil

Method:

• Cut the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices.
• Sprinkle salt on both sides of the slices and let them sit in a colander for 30 minutes to drain.
• Pat the slices dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels.
• In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In a separate bowl or plate, combine the panko, almond flour, cheese, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each slice of eggplant into the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
• Place the slices on a plate and drizzle with olive oil.
• Preheat the air fryer to 370°F.
• Place the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Air fry for 17-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the slices are crispy and golden brown.

Air Fryer Roasted Eggplant

Ingredients:

• 1 eggplant
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• Optional: black pepper, chili flakes, or fresh thyme

Method:

• Cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch cubes.
• In a large bowl, toss the eggplant cubes with the oil, salt, and any desired seasonings.
• Set the air fryer to 400°F.
• Place the eggplant in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Air fry for 8 minutes, then toss the cubes.
• Continue air frying for another 7 minutes or until the eggplant is golden and crispy on the outside, but tender on the inside.

Air Fryer Eggplant with Parmesan Coating

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

Method:

• Cut the eggplant into 1/2-inch thick slices.
• Pat the slices dry with paper towels.
• Brush both sides of the slices with olive oil.
• Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
• Place the slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches.
• Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, until the eggplant is soft and the cheese is golden brown.

Spicy Garlic Air Fryer Eggplant

Ingredients:

• 1 eggplant, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Method:

• Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss until the eggplant pieces are coated with oil and spices.
• Place the eggplant in the air fryer basket.
• Air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of your eggplant slices or cubes, so keep an eye on them to make sure they don't overcook or undercook.

How to store leftover eggplant

Eggplants are sensitive to temperature, light, and other foods that produce ethylene, so storing them properly is important to avoid spoilage. Here are some tips on how to store leftover eggplant:

Storing Cut or Cooked Eggplant in the Refrigerator

Store cut or cooked eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Eggplant is prone to browning and degradation once its flesh is exposed to air, so it's best to use it within three to four days. You can also squeeze some lemon juice on top to prevent enzymatic browning.

Storing Whole Eggplant

Whole eggplants should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in the vegetable crisper drawer, which has the highest humidity. If the eggplant is too big for the drawer, let it sit on a shelf instead, ensuring nothing is placed on top of it. The optimum storage temperature for eggplants is around 50°F (10°C), and they will last between five and seven days in the refrigerator if the skin is intact.

Storing Eggplant at Room Temperature

If you plan to eat the eggplant within two days, it can be stored at room temperature. Keep it away from sunlight and ethylene-producing foods like apples, bananas, tomatoes, melons, and peaches.

Freezing Eggplant

Raw eggplant does not freeze well due to its high water content, but you can cook or partially cook it before freezing to extend its shelf life. Here's how:

• Slice the eggplant into one-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes, then let them cool completely.
• Place the cooled eggplant slices in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

What to serve with air fryer eggplant

There are many ways to serve air-fried eggplant. Here are some ideas:

As a Side Dish

Air-fried eggplant can be served as a vegetable side dish. It pairs well with a dip like marinara sauce, basil tomato sauce, or tzatziki. It can also complement a protein-packed main course, such as Mediterranean dishes like Greek yogurt chicken and Mediterranean lemon chicken, or balance a hearty main like a classic pot roast.

With Grains

Air-fried eggplant is a tasty addition to cooked grains like quinoa salad, bulgur, or pasta recipes. Top it with rich parmesan cheese, ground black pepper, and fresh parsley for extra flavour.

As an Appetizer

Air-fried eggplant cubes make a yummy, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve them with dips like Greek yogurt drizzled with oil, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a creamy tahini dip. You can also sprinkle grated parmesan or crumbled feta on top for an extra flavour boost or serve them alongside other small bites like olives, roasted peppers, and breadsticks for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

As a Main Course

To make air-fried eggplant the star of your meal, serve it over pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs, and top it with marinara sauce, fresh tomato sauce, or dollops of cashew cream. You can also add basil, red pepper flakes, and drizzles of olive oil.

With Other Air-Fryer Dishes

If you're looking for a complete air-fried meal, try pairing your eggplant with other air-fried menu items like air-fried turkey burgers or air-fried tuna steak.

Frequently asked questions