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Low-Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant: Crispy & Healthy

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Low-Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant is a crispy, healthy vegetable recipe made with minimal oil and simple seasonings. Perfect as a light snack or side dish, it delivers golden crunch without deep frying.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large eggplant (about 1 pound), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 12 teaspoons olive oil spray
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice the eggplant into even 1/2-inch rounds. Optionally sprinkle with salt and let sit for 20–30 minutes, then pat dry.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  3. Lightly spray both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil.
  4. In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Press each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
  6. Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
  7. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or your favorite healthy dip.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for maximum crispiness.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
  • To keep the recipe lower in calories, use a light oil spray only.
  • Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to restore crisp texture.
  • Eggplant skin is edible and contains beneficial antioxidants, so peeling is not necessary.

Nutrition