Low Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant (Print View)
Golden crispy eggplant cubes with garlic, paprika, and oregano. Ready in 25 minutes for a healthy Mediterranean appetizer or side.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 medium eggplant (approximately 14 oz), cut into 1/2-inch cubes
→ Seasonings
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or olive oil spray
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Optional Garnish
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes before cooking.
02 - Place eggplant cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly for reduced calories.
03 - Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until eggplant pieces are evenly coated.
04 - Spread eggplant in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
05 - Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket halfway through cooking time. Eggplant should be golden brown with crispy edges when done.
06 - Transfer to serving plate. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle fresh parsley over top if using. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- You get that restaurant style crunch without a deep fryer or the guilt
- The seasoning blend hits every savory craving while keeping it light enough for seconds
02 -
- Overcrowding is the enemy of crispy eggplant, so cook in batches if your air fryer is on the smaller side
- Letting the basket shake halfway through prevents any burnt bottoms and ensures all sides get that gorgeous color
03 -
- Cut your eggplant into uniform cubes so everything cooks at the same rate
- Season right before air frying rather than ahead to prevent the salt from drawing out too much moisture