1-Getting started with air fryer eggplant is fun and straightforward, perfect for beginners or anyone in a rush. First, wash and slice your large globe eggplant into quarter-inch thick rounds, then sprinkle with sea salt and let it drain for 30 minutes to cut down on bitterness. This step is crucial as it pulls out excess moisture, leading to a better texture once cooked.

2-Next, pat the slices dry to remove any leftover salt and moisture. Now, dip each slice into the egg mixture whether it’s the egg or the vegan substitute of ¼ cup nut milk mixed with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed. After that, coat them thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, which includes ½ cup panko bread crumbs, ½ cup almond flour, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

3-Arrange the coated slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil. For the best results, cook at 370°F for 17 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness. If you have more slices, work in batches to avoid overcrowding, and remember preparation takes about 40 minutes including draining, plus 20 minutes for cooking.

4-Preheat your air fryer for a couple of minutes before adding the slices to help with that golden crunch. This method not only enhances flavor but also makes the eggplant versatile for meals, like pairing it with pasta, tomato sauce, cashew cream, basil, olive oil, and red pepper flakes for a full dish.