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Low-Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe

Low-Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 27 reviews

A flavorful and healthy low-calorie eggplant recipe cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This easy-to-make dish uses a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, enhanced with avocado oil, to create a crispy, tender side or main dish that’s perfect for those seeking a nutritious, gluten-free, and low-fat meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 large eggplant (peeled as desired and diced into 1-inch cubes)

Oils & Fats

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil

Seasonings & Spices

  • 1 teaspoon rosemary, dried
  • 1 teaspoon thyme, dried
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus extra for salting eggplant)
  • 1/2 teaspoon powdered garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Eggplant: If you prefer a less bitter taste and a firmer texture, sprinkle the diced eggplant cubes with kosher salt and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. This step helps draw out moisture and reduce bitterness. Afterward, rinse the salt off and pat the eggplant dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the Eggplant: In a large bowl, combine the eggplant cubes with avocado oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, powdered garlic, smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispy results.
  4. Cook the Eggplant: Place the seasoned eggplant cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer to allow air circulation. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. The eggplant should be tender and crispy on the outside when done.
  5. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with a variety of mains or can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or side.

Notes

  • Peeling the eggplant is optional and based on personal preference.
  • Salting the eggplant before cooking reduces bitterness and improves texture.
  • For an extra crispy texture, you can increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes but monitor to avoid burning.
  • Avocado oil is chosen for its high smoke point and health benefits, but you can substitute with olive oil if preferred.
  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in calories, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: low-calorie eggplant, air fryer eggplant, healthy eggplant recipe, gluten-free side dish, roasted eggplant, Mediterranean vegetables

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/low-calorie-air-fryer-eggplant-recipe/