Enjoy crispy and flavorful air fryer eggplant with this simple recipe. Cubed eggplant is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then air fried to perfection, resulting in a delightful crispy texture and taste. This easy-to-make side dish is a healthier alternative to traditional fried eggplant, providing a delicious addition to any meal.
air fryer We use a Ninja Foodi All in One 6 quart for this recipe.
Ingredients
1eggplantplease see below how to cut into 1/2inch cubes
2tbspextra virgin olive oil
Seasonings
1tspdried rosemary
1tspdried thyme
½tspHungarian paprika
¼tspsalt
⅛tspground black pepper
Instructions
Important Air Fryer Note
All air fryers operate a little differently; therefore, timing may be altered depending on the brand and size of the fryer basket. This recipe uses a Ninja Foodi all-in-one 6-quart air fryer and pressure cooker in one. If this is the first time you are making this recipe, please check your air fryer manual for eggplant suggestions or watch for timing so you do not burn.
Prepping Eggplant to be Air Fried
Trim off the ends of the eggplant, providing a stable base for slicing and holding it securely.
Using a large chef’s knife, cut the eggplant slices lengthwise into thin, uniform slices about 1/2 inch thick.
After completing the slicing step, use a paring knife to peel the skin off of the eggplant.
Stack the peeled slices and cut them into approximately 1/2-inch cubes, doing your best to keep them even for the best cooking.
How to Air Fry Eggplant
Place a paper towel onto a large baking sheet and place eggplant onto the paper towel in a single layer. Generously salt.
Let stand for 15 minutes. Using another piece of paper towel, blot the top of the eggplant to soak up moisture. Discard paper towels.
Add peeled and cubed eggplant to a mixing bowl and stir in olive oil. Mix well. Top with spices and mix well to coat evenly.
Using the Air Crisp function, set the Air Fryer to 400 degrees.
Add eggplant to the air fryer/air crisp basket and heat for 18 minutes, shaking halfway through cooking.
Remove from air fryer and serve immediately topped with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Please see full eggplant article to see images of the eggplant being cubed.