Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a vegetable that has been enjoyed for centuries all over the world. While it may have originated in India, eggplant has become a staple ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. One popular way to prepare eggplant is by slicing it into rounds and frying it until crispy. However, with the rise of healthy eating habits, people are turning to a healthier alternative – air fryer eggplant slices.

What makes air fryer eggplant slices special is that they provide the same crispy texture and delicious taste as traditional fried eggplant slices but without the excess oil and calories. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, which means you can enjoy your favorite fried foods without feeling guilty. The result is a healthier version of a classic dish that is just as satisfying.

Air fryer eggplant slices are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a hearty side dish. They are easy to make, take only a few minutes to cook, and are sure to impress your guests. Plus, since they are made with minimal oil, they won’t leave you feeling weighed down after eating them.

Ingredients Needed:

1 medium-sized eggplant: Choose a firm eggplant with smooth skin.
2 tablespoons of olive oil: Used for coating the eggplant slices.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Optional: Additional spices: You can add herbs like dried oregano, basil, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Equipment Needed:

Air fryer: Used for cooking the eggplant slices.
Knife and cutting board: Used for slicing the eggplant.
Bowl: Used for tossing the eggplant slices with olive oil and seasonings.
Tongs: Used for flipping the eggplant slices in the air fryer.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Eggplant

Wash the eggplant thoroughly and pat it dry with a kitchen towel.
Slice the eggplant into even slices, approximately 1/4 inch thick. You can choose to peel the skin or leave it on, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Season and Coat the Eggplant

In a bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the eggplant slices.
Season the slices with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you desire.
Toss the eggplant slices gently in the bowl until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Air Fry the Eggplant Slices

Place the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd them, as this may prevent proper crisping.
Cook the eggplant slices in the air fryer for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
The eggplant slices should turn golden brown and become crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the eggplant slices are cooked to your desired crispiness, remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula.
Serve the air-fried eggplant slices as a side dish, a topping for salads or sandwiches, or as a base for other recipes.
Enjoy them while they’re still warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips and Tricks to Know:

Make sure to cut the eggplant slices to a consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can decrease the cooking time by a few minutes.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of the eggplant slices to your liking.
For a healthier option, you can spray the eggplant slices with cooking spray instead of coating them with olive oil.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy the air-fried eggplant slices as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Use them as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or wraps for added texture and flavor.
Incorporate the eggplant slices into Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as eggplant parmesan, moussaka, or caponata.
Serve them as a healthy snack or appetizer with a dipping sauce like marinara, tzatziki, or hummus.

Storage Options:

Air-fried eggplant slices are best enjoyed immediately after cooking to maintain their crispiness.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat the slices in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use other oils such as avocado oil or canola oil if you prefer. Keep in mind that different oils may affect the flavor and cooking time slightly.

2. Can I use a mandoline slicer to cut the eggplant?

Yes, using a mandoline slicer can help you achieve consistent thickness for the eggplant slices. Just make sure to use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the slicer.

3. Can I bread the eggplant slices before air frying them?

Yes, you can coat the eggplant slices in breadcrumbs or a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese to add a crispy coating. Dip the eggplant slices in beaten egg before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Can I freeze the air-fried eggplant slices?

While it’s possible to freeze the eggplant slices, their texture may change and become softer upon thawing. It’s recommended to enjoy them fresh for the best taste and texture.

5. Can I use the air-fried eggplant slices in other recipes?

You can use the air-fried eggplant slices as a substitute for fried eggplant in recipes like eggplant parmesan, lasagna, or as a base for mini eggplant pizzas.

Air Fryer Eggplant Slices

Gloria

Enjoy crispy and healthy eggplant slices cooked in an air fryer, providing a guilt-free alternative to traditional fried eggplant. It’s a versatile dish perfect as an appetizer or side.

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Course Appetizer, Side Dish

Cuisine Mediterranean

Equipment

Air fryer
Knife and cutting board.
Bowl
Tongs

Ingredients

1 medium-sized eggplant
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Additional spices like dried oregano basil, or garlic powder

Instructions

Wash and dry the eggplant, then slice it into even slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
Drizzle olive oil over the eggplant slices in a bowl, season with salt, pepper, and optional spices, and toss until coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes.
Place the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Once golden brown and crispy, remove the eggplant slices from the air fryer and serve them warm.