What To Know
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mixture for a touch of heat.
- Ninja air fryer eggplant is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
- Store the cooked eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Indulge in the culinary artistry of eggplant, elevated to perfection in the Ninja Air Fryer. This remarkable recipe transforms humble eggplants into a symphony of flavors and textures, leaving your taste buds dancing with delight.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Eggplant: Cut the eggplants into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl. Season with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Create the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and basil. Mix well.
3. Coat the Eggplant: Dip the eggplant cubes into the coating mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
4. Air Fry: Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated eggplant cubes in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
5. Flip and Cook: Midway through the cooking time, flip the eggplant cubes to ensure even cooking.
6. Serve: Remove the eggplant from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mixture for a touch of heat.
- Herbed Delight: Enhance the flavor by adding dried oregano or thyme to the coating mixture.
- Mediterranean Twist: Drizzle the eggplant with olive oil and sprinkle with feta cheese and chopped tomatoes before serving.
Benefits
- Healthy Cooking: Air frying uses minimal oil, making this recipe a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
- Time-Saving: The Ninja Air Fryer cooks the eggplant quickly and efficiently, saving you time in the kitchen.
- Versatile Dish: Ninja air fryer eggplant is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
Pairing Suggestions
- Pasta Perfection: Serve the eggplant over a bed of pasta with a flavorful marinara sauce.
- Salad Sensation: Add the eggplant to a salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Sandwich Delight: Layer the eggplant on a sandwich with grilled chicken, roasted red peppers, and aioli.
In a nutshell: A Culinary Masterpiece
The Ninja Air Fryer Eggplant Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the versatility and convenience of this kitchen appliance. With its tantalizing flavors, crispy texture, and endless possibilities for variation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen eggplant in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen eggplant. Thaw it completely before cutting and coating it.
Q: How long can I store the cooked eggplant?
A: Store the cooked eggplant in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What can I do with leftover eggplant?
A: Leftover eggplant can be used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps. It can also be reheated in the air fryer or microwave.
