Low Calorie Air Fryer Eggplant (Printable Version)

Golden crispy eggplant cubes with smoky Mediterranean flavors, air-fried to perfection with minimal oil for maximum crunch.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium eggplant (approximately 14 ounces), cut into 1/2-inch cubes

→ Seasonings

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil or olive oil spray
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional Garnish

08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes before beginning preparation.
02 - Place eggplant cubes in large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss until thoroughly coated.
03 - Spread eggplant pieces in single layer in air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
04 - Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking basket halfway through cooking time. Continue until eggplant achieves golden brown color and crispy edges.
05 - Transfer cooked eggplant to serving plate. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle fresh parsley over top if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The outside gets impossibly crispy while the inside stays creamy and tender, creating that perfect texture contrast
  • One eggplant feeds four people generously for under 100 calories per serving
  • The seasoning blend hits smoky, savory, and bright notes all at once
02 -
  • Overcrowding the basket is the fastest way to end up with steamed, soggy eggplant instead of crispy cubes
  • The eggplant will continue to crisp slightly after you remove it from the air fryer, so dont be afraid to take it out when it looks done
03 -
  • Pat the eggplant cubes dry with paper towels before seasoning to help them crisp up better
  • Let the coated eggplant sit for 10 minutes before air frying for better adhesion of the spices