Crispy Vegan Eggplant Recipes Air Fryer

The air fryer is a vegan’s best friend, especially when it comes to eggplant. This versatile vegetable transforms into crispy, flavorful bites with minimal effort when cooked in the air fryer. These vegan eggplant recipes are about to become your new go-to for quick weeknight meals or satisfying appetizers.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Eggplant Air Fryer Recipes

Eggplant, with its meaty texture, is a star player in many vegan dishes. Air frying takes it to the next level, delivering a satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying. Here’s why these recipes are winners:

• Healthy and Delicious: Air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying, making for a lighter, healthier dish.
• Quick and Easy: Most of these recipes can be prepped and cooked in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: From crispy bites to flavorful steaks, the possibilities with air-fried eggplant are endless.

Essential Tips for Air Fryer Eggplant Perfection

• Choose the Right Eggplant: Look for firm, smooth eggplants with vibrant color and no soft spots.
• Salting and Drying: Salting the eggplant beforehand draws out excess moisture, resulting in a crispier texture. Pat dry with a paper towel before air frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give your eggplant pieces enough space to breathe in the air fryer basket for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• Flip and Toss: Halfway through cooking, flip the eggplant pieces or toss them gently to ensure even browning and cooking on all sides.

Air Fryer Eggplant Bites with Spicy Vegan Garlic Aioli

Crispy golden brown eggplant bites in an air fryer basket

These addictive bites are perfect for dipping or serving as a side dish.

Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the eggplant:

• 1 medium eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the vegan garlic aioli:

• 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the eggplant: In a large bowl, combine the eggplant cubes, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
2. Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the eggplant cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is golden brown and tender.
4. Make the aioli: While the eggplant is cooking, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Serve: Serve the crispy eggplant bites immediately with the spicy vegan garlic aioli.

Chef’s Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the aioli.

Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan Stacks

Sliced eggplant layered with marinara sauce and vegan cheese

Enjoy a lighter, healthier take on the classic eggplant parmesan with this air fryer recipe.

Yields: 2 Servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella cheese shreds
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the eggplant: In a shallow dish, whisk together the plant-based milk and dried oregano. In another shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Bread the eggplant: Dip each eggplant round into the milk mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded eggplant rounds in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Assemble the stacks: Once the eggplant is cooked, layer them with marinara sauce and vegan mozzarella cheese.
5. Melt the cheese: Air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Serve your eggplant parmesan stacks immediately with a side of your favorite pasta or salad.

Chef’s Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even eggplant rounds, ensuring they cook evenly in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Eggplant “Steaks” with Lemon-Herb Dressing

Beautifully plated eggplant steaks drizzled with a vibrant lemon-herb dressing

These hearty and flavorful “steaks” are perfect for a satisfying vegan meal.

Yields: 2 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick “steaks”
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Marinate the eggplant: In a shallow dish, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the eggplant steaks and coat them evenly in the marinade. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the eggplant steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook: Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until tender and slightly browned.
4. Serve: Serve the eggplant “steaks” warm with a drizzle of extra lemon-herb dressing.

Chef’s Tip: Serve these flavorful eggplant steaks with a side of quinoa or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Vegan Eggplant Recipes Air Fryer: FAQs

Can I freeze air-fried eggplant?

Yes, you can freeze air-fried eggplant for later use. Allow the eggplant to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until heated through.

How do I prevent the eggplant from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly greasing the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil can help prevent sticking. Additionally, make sure the eggplant pieces are not overcrowded in the basket.

What can I serve with air-fried eggplant?

Air-fried eggplant pairs well with various dishes. Serve it as a side with a main course, add it to salads, sandwiches, wraps, or use it as a topping for pizza or pasta.

Can I use different spices or seasonings for these recipes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of your air-fried eggplant.