Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe
Serves 4
10 mins prep
15 mins Resting Time
25 mins total
If you are in need of a recipe for Air Fryer Eggplant with no breadcrumbs, you have come to the right place! Follow this straightforward recipe to create a nicely seasoned air-fried eggplant dish (sliced or cubed) that you can serve as a side or incorporate into salads, casseroles, stews, and more.
Optional Garnish
Cut the eggplant into your desired shape, either ½ inch slices or 1-inch cubes. You do not need to peel the eggplant as the skin is edible.
Line a sheet pan with a few sheets of paper towels. Place the eggplant on top and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of salt, ensuring that all sides of the eggplant slices (or cubes) are evenly seasoned. Let rest for 15 minutes.
Using a sheet of paper towel (or a clean kitchen towel), pat the surface of the eggplant dry to absorb moisture.
Season the eggplant:
For sliced eggplant: Brush eggplant slices with the oil on both sides and sprinkle each slice with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
For cubed eggplant: Place eggplant cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle with oil and toss until well combined. Sprinkle them with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F.
Place the eggplant in an even layer in the air fryer. Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. If needed, it is best to air fry it in two batches to ensure even frying.
Air fry for approximately 12 minutes flipping the eggplant halfway through the air frying process. To check doneness, insert a pairing knife in one of the eggplant cubes/slices, if it goes in and out easily, it should be done. If not, let it continue to air fry in one-minute increments until tender.
Transfer to a plate. If preferred, sprinkle it with chopped parsley and a light squeeze of lemon juice. Serve while it is still warm.
