Easy Air Fryer eggplant recipe - no breadcrumbs

Name: Easy Air Fryer eggplant recipe - no breadcrumbs recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 large eggplants (sliced into halves); 1/2 cup vegan pesto (or tomato sauce); Salt to taste; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/3 tsp dried basil; 1/2 cup vegan cheese (Or cheese of your choice (can be parmesan cheese, feta cheese, or mozzarella cheese)); 1 handful fresh basil (or fresh parsley for garnish)

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Air fryer eggplant – no breadcrumbs recipe. Vegan air fryer baked eggplants are a delicious and flavorful dish that you and your whole family will love. Imagine a warm and cozy meal with a crispy texture that’s satisfyingly crunchy on the outside, and a tender, juicy, and flavorful inside that’s filled with rich, savory flavors that tantalize your taste buds.

The eggplant is perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of seasoning and spices to make it a truly mouth-watering experience. Every bite is packed with a burst of flavor that’s sure to delight your palate and satisfy your hunger.

But that’s not all, vegan air fryer baked eggplants are also a healthy and nutritious meal option that’s low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with antioxidants. So whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a delicious and healthy meal option, you can’t go wrong with this cozy and delicious dish.

There are several great things about air fryer baked eggplants with pesto that you’re sure to love:

1. Healthier preparation method: Using the air fryer instead of traditional frying methods means that the eggplant will be crispy and delicious without the added oil and calories of deep-frying.

2. Delicious pesto flavor: The fresh, herby flavor of pesto is the perfect complement to the rich, meaty flavor of the eggplant.

3. Versatile dish: You can use the air fryer baked eggplants with pesto as a main dish, a side dish, or even as a snack.

4. Easy to prepare: This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you don’t feel like spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

5. Nutritious: Eggplants are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this a healthy and satisfying dish.

Overall, air fryer baked eggplants with pesto is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy eggplants. You’re sure to love the crispy texture and flavorful pesto, so give it a try!

In this Air Fryer Eggplant – no breadcrumbs recipe, we’re covering

Tips and tricks for making the best air fryer baked eggplants
Easy no breadcrumbs air fryer Baked eggplants Ingredients
How to make delicious baked Mediterranean eggplants in air fryer
Delicious vegan sun-dried tomato pesto recipe
How to prepare eggplants for baking and cooking
What to serve with Mediterranean air fryer baked eggplants
Sauces and dips to serve with baked aubergines
Lunch ideas to use leftover baked eggplants
Health benefits of eggplants
FAQs
Pets and eggplants FAQs

Why air fryer eggplants without breadcrumbs are the best thing since sliced bread

There are many great things about air fryer baked eggplants without breadcrumbs. Here are just a few:

1. Healthier: By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy eggplant slices texture as breaded eggplant, but without the added calories and fat from the breadcrumbs.

2. Easy to make: Air fryer baked eggplants are very easy to make. All you have to do is slice the eggplant, season it to your liking, and air fry it until tenderness.

3. Versatile: Air fryer baked eggplants can be used in a variety of dishes. You can serve them as a side dish, use them as a pizza topping, or even make air fryer eggplant parmesan. Depending on the size of your air fryer you can make larger or smaller portions of air-fried eggplant slices in less time. It’s a great option easy side dish that everyone will love!

4. Delicious: Vegan Air fryer eggplant still have a great flavor and texture, even without the breadcrumbs. Thick slices of tender eggplant with a crispy exterior and so much flavor. All topped with tomato sauceand simple ingredients and seasonings that pack a lot of flavor into this delcious recipe. Air fryer eggplant slices are a tasty and satisfying addition to any meal.

5. The crispy texture: Air frying the eggplant gives it a satisfyingly crispy texture that is similar to deep-fried food but without the added oil and calories.

6. The rich, meaty flavor: Eggplants have a rich, meaty flavor that is enhanced by the air frying process, making them even more delicious and satisfying.

7. The warmth and comfort factor: Baked eggplant dishes are often associated with warmth and comfort, making them a cozy meal option.

More reasons why Air fryer eggplants is the best thing ever

8. The versatility: Air fryer baked eggplants can be prepared in a variety of ways, including with different spices and seasonings, so you can customize the dish to your liking and create a cozy meal that is perfect for you.

9. The health benefits: Air fryer baked eggplants are a healthy and nutritious choice, as they are low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with antioxidants.

Overall, the combination of crispy texture, rich flavor, and warmth make air fryer baked eggplants a cozy and delicious meal option that you are sure to love.

Tips and tricks for making eggplant halves in air fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes before cooking.

2. Cut your eggplants in half lengthwise and score the flesh with a knife to help it cook more evenly.

3. Brush the eggplant halves with olive oil to help them brown and crisp up in the air fryer.

4. Season the eggplant with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer.

5. Place the eggplant halves in the air fryer basket, flesh side down, and cook for about 30-35 minutes at 375°F.

6. Flip the eggplant halves over and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until they are crispy and golden brown.

7. Top the eggplant slices with your favorite toppings and grill for 5-10 more minutes.

8. Serve your air-fried eggplant halves with your favorite toppings, such as my delicious sun-dried tomato pesto found on the recipe card, fresh herbs, vegan cheese or grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Easy and delicious air fryer eggplant recipe with pesto and no breadcrumbs:

Easy no breadcrumbs air fryer Baked eggplants Ingredients:

2 large eggplants, sliced into halves
1/2 cup vegan pesto, or tomato sauce
Salt to taste
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/3 tsp dried basil
1/2 cup vegan cheese, Or cheese of your choice (can be parmesan cheese, feta cheese, or mozzarella cheese)
1 handful fresh basil, or fresh parsley for garnish

How to make the best Air Fryer eggplant – no breadcrumbs recipe Directions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.

2. Brush each eggplant slice generously with pesto on the meat sides.

3. Place the eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

4. Sprinkle salt, oregano, thyme, and basil on top.

5. Air fry for 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is tender and lightly browned on both sides. Top with vegan mozzarella cheese or cheese of your choice. Let the eggplants continue to bake for 5-8 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.

6. Serve and enjoy!

This recipe is a great way of enjoying eggplant that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the added flavor of pesto.

How to make a delicious vegan sun dried tomato pesto

Here is a recipe for vegan sun-dried tomato pesto that you can easily make at home:

Ingredients:

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, soaked in hot water for 5-10 minutes
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt to taste

Directions:

1. In a food processor, pulse the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, pine nuts, and garlic until coarsely chopped.

2. Add the nutritional yeast and pulse again until combined.

3. With the food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the pesto is smooth.

4. Add salt to taste.

5. Enjoy your delicious vegan sun-dried tomato pesto on pasta, bread, or as a dip!

How to prepare eggplant to make it taste better when baking

Eggplant can be a bit tricky to cook as it has a mild flavor and tendency to absorb a lot of oil. Here are a few tips to help prepare eggplant that tastes great when baked:

1. Salt the eggplant slices: Sprinkling salt on sliced eggplant before baking can help remove any bitter flavor and excess moisture. After sprinkling salt, let the eggplant sit for about 30 minutes then rinse and pat dry.

2. Slice evenly: Make sure your eggplant slices are cut evenly to ensure even baking.

3. Brush with oil: Instead of frying or sautéing, brushing eggplant slices with oil can help prevent them from absorbing too much oil. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the eggplant on both sides.

4. Add flavor: Eggplant can be bland on its own, so adding seasoning can make a big difference in taste. Try sprinkling garlic powder, cumin, or Italian seasoning on top of the eggplant before baking.

5. Add moisture: If you want to add some moisture and flavor to baked eggplant, try topping it with marinara sauce, pesto, or hummus.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your baked eggplant tastes delicious and is a hit at your next Dinner party or weeknight meal.

What can I serve with air fryer baked eggplants

There are many delicious dishes that you can serve with baked eggplants, depending on your personal preferences. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Salad: Baked eggplants pair well with a fresh salad. You can try a simple green salad or a Mediterranean-style salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.

2. Grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas: A light protein like grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas can complement the flavors of the eggplant nicely. You can season the tofu or chickpeas with herbs like oregano and basil. For extra smoky flavors you can also season with a little (or a lot if you’re a smoked paprika lover like me) of smoked paprika.

3. Couscous or quinoa: If you’re looking for a hearty side dish, couscous or quinoa are great options. They are both rich in protein and fiber and can be seasoned with herbs and spices to complement the eggplant.

4. Roasted vegetables: Roasting some veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots can make a delicious and colorful side dish that pairs well with the eggplant.

Vegan lunch ideas to use up leftover eggplants

Here are some ideas for using leftover baked eggplant to make delicious lunches:

1. Eggplant sandwich: Layer slices of eggplant on whole grain bread with hummus, roasted red peppers, and baby spinach for a tasty vegetarian sandwich.

2. Eggplant salad: Cut the eggplant into cubes and mix it with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a flavorful salad.

3. Eggplant and quinoa bowl: Combine cooked quinoa, sliced eggplant, roasted chickpeas, and diced avocado in a bowl. Top with a lemon tahini dressing for a healthy and filling lunch.

4. Eggplant wrap: Spread a whole wheat tortilla with hummus and layer with sliced eggplant, roasted red peppers, and baby spinach. Roll it up and slice into pinwheels for an easy-to-eat wrap.

5. Eggplant pasta: Toss cooked pasta with diced eggplant, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a simple yet satisfying lunch.

Delicious sauces and dips to serve with no breadcrumbs air fryer baked eggplants

Easy egg free Aioli
Low carb Keto Salsa
Spanish bean salsa salad
Hoisin sauce (gluten free)
Vegan BBQ sauce (grab the barbecue sauce from this recipe)

Great bread to serve with baked no bake aubergines

Health benefits of eggplants

Eggplants are a nutrient-dense vegetable that can offer a range of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Here are some of the benefits of eating eggplants:

1. Rich in antioxidants: Eggplants are high in anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants that can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.

2. May promote heart health: The fiber, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and phytonutrients found in eggplants may help support heart health by reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving blood flow.

3. May aid in digestion: Eggplants are high in fiber, which can help promote digestive health by supporting regularity and preventing constipation.

4. May help with weight management: Eggplants are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied after eating, potentially helping to manage weight.

5. May support brain health: The anthocyanins found in eggplants may have neuroprotective properties, potentially helping to reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

As with any food, it’s important to consume eggplants as part of a balanced and varied diet to maximize their health benefits.

FAQs – frequently asked questions and answers about air fryer baked eggplants:

Are eggplants Keto friendly

Yes, eggplants are keto-friendly. They are low in carbs and high in fiber, making them a great addition to a keto diet. In fact, one cup of cooked eggplant contains only 5 grams of carbs and 2.5 grams of fiber, making it a very low-carb vegetable. Eggplants are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K. So, if you’re following a keto diet, feel free to add eggplant to your meals as a healthy and nutritious vegetable option.

Can I use any type of eggplant for air fryer baked eggplants?

Yes, you can use any type of eggplant. However, smaller eggplants tend to be less bitter and have a milder flavor.

Do I need to peel the eggplant before air frying it?

It’s up to you – you can peel the eggplant or leave the skin on. The skin can give the eggplant a slightly chewy texture, but it also has nutrients and fiber.

How long should I air fry the eggplant for?

It depends on the thickness of the eggplant slices and the temperature of your air fryer. Generally, you should air fry the eggplant for 20-25 minutes at 375°F, flipping the slices halfway through cooking. For frying eggplant halves, you need to increase baking time with 10-20 minutes.

Storage and more FAQs

Can I store leftover air fryer baked eggplants in the fridge?

Yes, you can store leftover eggplants in an airtight sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes or in the microwave.

Can I use breadcrumbs or flour to coat the eggplant before air frying it?

Yes, you can use breadcrumbs or flour if you want a more traditional breaded eggplant. However, using these ingredients will add extra calories and fat.

Can I freeze air fryer baked eggplants?

Yes, you can freeze baked eggplants for up to 3 months. Let them cool to room temperature, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply air fry them for a few minutes.

Are air fryer baked eggplants healthy?

Yes, air fryer baked eggplants are a healthy option as they are low in calories and fat, high in fiber, and packed with nutrients like vitamins and minerals.

Can I use oil when air frying eggplants?

Yes, you can lightly coat the eggplant slices with oil before air frying them. Using a spray bottle or an oil mister can help control the amount of oil you use.

Can dogs eat raw eggplants

It is not recommended to feed raw eggplants to dogs, as they contain solanine, a toxic substance for dogs that can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures in severe cases.

Can dogs eat cooked eggplants

Cooked eggplants, on the other hand, are safe for dogs to eat in moderation, as long as they are not seasoned with any harmful spices or ingredients. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet. They can advise you on the best nutritional options for your furry friend.

Can cats eat eggplants

While eggplants are not toxic to cats, they are not recommended as a regular part of their diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
Eggplants are high in fiber and contain certain compounds that can be difficult for cats to digest. Consuming large amounts of eggplant may cause digestive upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating.
It’s always best to stick to a balanced and nutritionally complete diet that is specifically formulated for cats. If you have any concerns about your cat’s diet or health, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinarian.

Reptiles and eggplants

Can bearded dragon eat raw eggplant

Bearded dragons can eat raw eggplants, but it’s not recommended as they are difficult to digest and may cause digestive problems.
It’s best to offer cooked eggplants to your bearded dragon in small amounts and as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, and protein sources like insects or commercial reptile food.
Remember to always wash the eggplant thoroughly before cooking it, and avoid seasoning it with any spices or ingredients that can be harmful to your pet. If you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s diet, consult with a veterinarian who specializes in reptile care.

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