Air Fryer Stuffed Eggplants are a delicious and healthy dish featuring tender eggplant halves filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, grains, and melted cheese. Perfect as a main course or a hearty side dish, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 2 medium eggplants, halved lengthwise
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (vegan or regular, optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the eggplants:
- Scoop out the flesh of the eggplant halves, leaving a 1/4-inch border to create a shell.
- Dice the removed flesh and set aside.
- Cook the filling:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced onion, garlic, and reserved eggplant flesh until softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, spinach, quinoa, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until combined.
- Stuff the eggplants:
- Fill each eggplant half with the prepared mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired.
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the eggplants:
- Place the stuffed eggplants in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 15-18 minutes, until the eggplants are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 18 minutes
- Total time: 33 minutes
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
Key Notes
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or grains.
- Add chickpeas or beans for extra protein.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes.
Enjoy this flavorful and wholesome dish of Air Fryer Stuffed Eggplants! 🍆✨😊