Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and texture for a quick weeknight meal? Look no further than your air fryer! This versatile kitchen tool can produce crispy, golden-brown results with minimal oil and effort. And when it comes to vegetarian options, the possibilities are endless. From savory snacks to satisfying main courses, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering vegetarian air fryer recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic favorites like cauliflower “wings” and sweet potato fries, to innovative twists on traditional dishes like stuffed mushrooms and veggie spring rolls, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of your air fryer. And with most meals ready in under 30 minutes, you’ll have more time to focus on what matters most – enjoying a delicious meal with family and friends.
So why wait? Dive into our collection of vegetarian air fryer recipes below and start cooking up a storm tonight!
Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Bites
Transform plain tofu into crispy, flavorful bites with this simple recipe. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, these air-fried morsels are a game-changer for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Load the tofu bites into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower
Transform ordinary cauliflower into a flavorful and crispy masterpiece with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or snack, Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Air Fryer Chickpeas
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with this flavorful and spicy air fryer chickpea recipe! With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious and addictive snack in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss to coat with the spice mixture.
4. Load the chickpeas into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Get ready to enjoy a healthier twist on traditional fries with this simple recipe for Air Fryer Zucchini Fries!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: Garlic powder or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into long, thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, and salt.
4. Toss the zucchini strips in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the zucchini fries and toss to coat.
6. Load the Air Fryer basket with the zucchini fries in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet satisfying recipe for cheesy air fryer stuffed mushrooms. Perfect for a quick bite or party appetizer, these flavorful bites are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with paper towels and place in the air fryer basket.
4. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the mushrooms, spooning it onto the cap.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 7-9 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cook Time: 7-9 minutes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Transform sweet potatoes into a crispy, addictive snack with minimal effort! This simple recipe yields deliciously crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside wedges.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or chili powder for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick wedges.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the sweet potato wedges and toss until evenly coated.
4. Place the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on your air fryer’s size.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: Cooking time may vary based on your air fryer model and desired level of crispiness.
Crunchy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple recipe that yields crispy, flavorful Brussels sprouts with minimal effort. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads and wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check for crispiness and cook additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Air Fryer Falafel Bites
Get ready to crave these crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside Air Fryer Falafel Bites! This easy recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add panko breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Using wet hands, shape mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 falafel bites.
5. Place falafel bites in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Cook for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Shake halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Panko-Crusted Air Fryer Eggplant
Elevate your eggplant game with this simple and delicious recipe, where a crunchy Panko crust meets tender air-fried goodness. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Avocado Fries
Transform ripe avocados into a delicious and healthy snack with this easy recipe. Air frying brings out the natural creaminess of the avocado, paired with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, chili powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the avocados into long, thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
4. Add the avocado strips to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the seasoning mixture.
5. Load the avocado fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each strip.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the avocados reach your desired level of crispiness.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
BBQ Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings
Transform cauliflower into mouthwatering wings with a sweet and tangy BBQ flavor using your air fryer. This recipe is a game-changer for vegans and non-vegans alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and dry the cauliflower.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss the cauliflower in the flour mixture until coated evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower and toss again to coat.
6. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until tender and crispy.
7. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Enjoy your delicious BBQ air fryer cauliflower wings!
Air Fryer Butternut Squash Cubes
Transform butternut squash into a deliciously caramelized snack or side dish with this easy air fryer recipe. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have tender and flavorful cubes that are perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cumin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a bowl, toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cumin (if using) until evenly coated.
4. Load the squash mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Squash is done when caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Air Fryer Potato Chips
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, flavorful potato chips infused with fresh herbs. This easy recipe is a perfect blend of classic and innovative, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and slice potatoes into thin strips.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, paprika, and salt.
4. Add potato strips to the bowl and toss until coated evenly.
5. Load the potato chips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove when crispy and golden brown.
8. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Portobello Mushroom Steaks
Elevate your mushroom game with this easy and flavorful Air Fryer recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add mushrooms to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Place mushrooms in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of mushrooms during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans
Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Side Dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the green bean mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each bean.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the green beans during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Veggie Spring Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these easy-to-make Air Fryer Veggie Spring Rolls. This recipe combines the crunch of spring rolls with the convenience of an air fryer, resulting in a tasty and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, scallions)
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the mixed vegetables, mashed tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Place the rolled spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Asparagus
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your asparagus with this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy side dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful asparagus in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the asparagus to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
5. Load the asparagus into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers
Satisfy your cravings with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with savory fillings, all achieved with minimal oil using an air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, black beans, cheese, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture, leaving room at the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Golden Air Fryer Onion Rings
Transform your snack game with this crispy and delicious recipe! Using the air fryer, you can achieve golden-brown onion rings with minimal oil and effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil spray for air fryer
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each onion ring into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated onion rings on a plate or tray.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil spray. Cook the onion rings in batches if necessary, not overcrowding the basket.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. Onion rings are done when golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Kale Chips with Sea Salt
Transform ordinary kale into a crispy, addictive snack with just a few simple steps and your Air Fryer. This recipe yields a flavorful and healthy treat that’s perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the kale leaves and remove stems. Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, massage the kale with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt until evenly coated.
4. Load the kale mixture into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook it in batches depending on your Air Fryer’s size.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until crispy, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the Air Fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and easy vegetarian air fryer recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From crispy tofu bites to garlic parmesan cauliflower, spicy chickpeas to cheesy stuffed mushrooms, these mouthwatering dishes are quick to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, this collection has got you covered. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these air fryer favorites!
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