Description:
This air fryer Mediterranean stuffed eggplant is a healthy and flavorful dish. Filled with a delicious mix of quinoa, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, it’s perfect for a light meal or as a side dish.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
For the Eggplants:
- 2 medium eggplants, halved and scooped out (reserve the flesh)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Juice of ½ lemon
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions:
- Prepare the Eggplants:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the eggplant halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Cook the Eggplants:
- Place the eggplant halves in the air fryer basket, cut side up. Cook for 8-10 minutes until slightly softened.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Chop the reserved eggplant flesh.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped eggplant and garlic until softened.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed eggplant, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, oregano, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Stuff the Eggplants:
- Fill each eggplant half with the prepared filling. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
Notes:
- Add cooked ground meat or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Substitute feta cheese with a vegan alternative for a plant-based version.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
Enjoy this vibrant and wholesome Mediterranean-inspired dish—a perfect blend of flavors and textures! 🍆✨