Easy Air Fryer Eggplant: Gluten free and Vegan

This air fryer eggplant is an amazing recipe for a gluten-free, vegan and healthy side dish that is great with almost any main meal. It’s super quick and so easy to prepare. Dice the eggplants, season and air fry. The result is a slightly crispy texture without the addition of excess oil or the need to salt the eggplant before cooking it. 

Air frying presents a great cooking option for individuals who want delicious, and healthy food.

Just like these air fryer crinkle cut fries, parmesan zucchini sticks or cauliflower recipes, this method of cooking offers a simple, low calorie yet satisfying alternative to cooking tasty side dishes.

With just a few basic ingredients you probably already have at home you can create this delicious air fryer eggplant recipe in hardly any time at all.

Of course, the recipe relies on eggplants most of all. You can choose any variety you like. Whatever you grow in your backyard vegetable garden will work well.

We also recommend buying a bunch at a nearby farmer’s market or a produce stand specializing in locally grown options. If you went a bit overboard, don’t worry! Remember that storing eggplant properly can keep them fresh longer!

Air frying keeps the recipe healthy and tasting light so it pairs well with any main dish or as part of a vegetarian meal on its own. Although simple tastes great, you can also augment the flavor with other vegetables or seasonings as desired.

If you love eggplants, here is how to expand your repertoire of vegetarian air frying recipes. 

How to prepare eggplant for the air fryer

Wash and dry 1½ pounds of eggplants. Use a sharp knife to cut off about ½-inch from both the top and bottom. If the eggplants are young and tender, there is no need to cut off the bottom part. 

Cut the eggplant lengthwise in half. Place the cut side flat surface on the cutting board and make ¾-inch slices lengthwise. Cut the slices into ¾-inch strips. Then cut the strips crosswise at ¾-inch intervals to create cubes. Please note they do not have to be perfect but aim for the cubes to be roughly the same size. 

How to make eggplant in the air fryer

After cutting the eggplant into cubes, the rest of the recipe is super easy and quick.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Transfer the diced eggplant to a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and mix thoroughly together. 

Next, add 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ⅛ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon of kosher salt and a pinch of black pepper. Toss to coat the pieces evenly. 

Spread the seasoned eggplant pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket with enough space between them if possible. Depending on your model, it may be necessary to shake once or twice during the roasting time.

It takes approximately 15 to 18 minutes to air fry eggplant cubes to a pleasant crispness. Look for a golden brown color and for the flesh to be easily pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on the vegetable so no pieces get excessively brown.

Remove from oven, taste, and adjust seasonings.

Crisp, air-fried eggplant tastes best when served immediately after cooking.

As an option, garnish with fresh parsley. 

Tips

• Dicing the eggplant creates a larger surface area that can be roasted. 
• Coat the entire surface with the oil first, and then the herbs by taking a minute or two to toss them properly together. 
• Space out the diced eggplant, in a single layer, on the basket. Do not overcrowd them. This extra step ensures better air circulation which means they get crispy on all sides. 
• Every air fryer works a little differently. Keep an eye on them so that you can determine the ideal cook time for your appliance. As a reference, check your user manual.
• Air fryer roasting time is just a suggestion. Feel free to roast for a shorter or longer period based on your personal preference. 

FAQ

Why did my eggplant not roast properly?

Proper air circulation is crucial to obtain crispy and evenly roasted potatoes in the air fryer. Do not overload the basket and space out the diced eggplant. Depending on your model, it may be necessary to cook in batches. 

Which eggplant variety is the best to air-fry?

So many different types of eggplant exist, from the Italian heirloom variety, Bianca eggplant to the traditional large, globe aubergines to long green Asian varieties to tiny white ones that look the most like their namesake. In fact, there are 11 different varieties. [source] Ultimately, any variety works with this recipe. You can even try multiple ones at the same time for a more colorful plate.

What about peeling them?

You do not have to peel the vegetables for this recipe. Many of the nutrients, such as vitamins A, B6, and C, folate, and potassium, are found near the skin. Much of the fiber comes from the skin as well. However, if you find the skin imparts a bitter taste, feel free to remove it.

Can you bake them in the oven?

Yes, baked or roasted eggplant tastes amazing and is another great way to prepare them. In some cases, these techniques allow for more of the liquid to stay in the vegetable, so they will not brown on the edges in the most delicious ways. Place the seasoned, diced eggplant on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

To salt or not to salt?

There are many theories about this topic. The general consensus is that salt does not draw out bitterness. However, if done properly, salting prior to cooking draws out the excess moisture in eggplants, reducing their ability to absorb oil, which can modify the texture of the eggplant in the final dish. This is great when frying, but it is not really necessary with the dry heat of the air fryer as it does a beautiful job drawing out the perfect amount of liquid from them.

What to serve with air fryer eggplant

Crisp, air-fried eggplant tastes best when served immediately after cooking. It is an enjoyable side dish that pairs well with any main dish, chicken, pasta dishes, or even rice. Or simply combine it with a marinara sauce and pasta for a quick pasta dinner. 

How to store leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warm.

Easy eggplant recipes

If you are looking for a simple Italian appetizer made with eggplants, nothing is easier than this grilled eggplant recipe. If you are a fan of sweet and sour combinations, be sure to try this caponata recipe.  Another family favorite is the combination of eggplant, zucchini and tomatoes in this roasted vegetable casserole. This recipe for eggplant parmesan is one of the healthiest. It’s a little different from what you’re used to, but trust me, it will be worth it!

Recipe inspiration

I love all vegetables, but eggplants hold a special place due to my Italian upbringing.

During my youth, my mom made the best eggplant dishes. Whether it was her recipe for parmigiana di melanzane, pickled eggplants, stuffed eggplants…  I loved them all!

This simple eggplant recipe is the result of testing out different recipes in my air fryer because of an abundance of eggplants from my backyard. 

As one reader recently wrote to me, “life is good”.  I totally agree with you, Richard. 

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

If you are interested, the air fryer I am using is the Breville Smart Toaster Oven. Head on over to my amazon store for all the details.

THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.

If you haven’t already joined, here is the link where you can sign up for my weekly e-mail newsletter. This way, you won’t miss any of my new recipes and it’s absolutely free! 

Ciao for now,

Maria

★★★★★ If you have made this simple air fryer recipe for eggplants, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!

Recipe