Greek Air Fryer Roasted Eggplant
This Greek Air Fryer Roasted Eggplant is a flavorful, crispy, and tender dish infused with Mediterranean spices. Made using minimal oil and cooked in an air fryer, this dish is quick, healthy, and full of vibrant flavors like garlic, lemon, and oregano. Whether served as a side, snack, or main course, it offers a delightful, guilt-free way to enjoy eggplant.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – 1 unit
- Sharp Knife – 1 unit (for slicing eggplant)
- Cutting Board: 1 unit
- Small Mixing Bowl – 1 unit (for seasoning)
- Brush or Tongs – 1 unit (to coat the eggplant slices)
- Paper Towels or Kitchen Towel – 1 unit (for moisture extraction)
Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh herbs parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Eggplant:
- Wash the eggplant and slice it into 1/2-inch rounds. Place the slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let them rest for 15 minutes to draw out moisture. This ensures they cook crisply in the air fryer.
Season the Eggplant:
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, dill (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss the eggplant slices in this seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Cook the Eggplant:
- Arrange the seasoned eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Optional Toppings:
- Once done, remove the eggplant from the air fryer and transfer to a plate. Add crumbled feta, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Moisture removal: Letting the eggplant rest with salt helps reduce its moisture content, leading to crispier results in the air fryer.
- Flavor variations: Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different twist. A drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving can also add an extra layer of flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
- Cooking time adjustments: Depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the eggplant slices, cooking times may vary slightly, so check for the desired crispiness.
- Serving options: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, Mediterranean salads, or can be enjoyed on its own with a dipping sauce like tzatziki.