Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience on busy weeknights? Look no further! With the rise of plant-based eating, it’s never been easier to create delicious and healthy meals at home. And with the introduction of air fryers to the scene, cooking has become even more streamlined.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering vegan air fryer recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From crispy tofu bites to sweet potato fries, buffalo cauliflower wings to garlic herb Brussels sprouts, and everything in between, these recipes will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the world of vegan air fryer magic!
Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Bites
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and flavorful air fryer tofu bites, perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Any desired seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and any desired seasonings.
2. Toss the tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until well coated.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place the coated tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with soy sauce (if using).
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Check for crispiness and cook an additional minute if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Vegan Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings Recipe
Get ready to devour a game-changing snack that’s both vegan-friendly and ridiculously delicious! This recipe transforms cauliflower florets into addictive, spicy, and tangy “wings” that will become your new obsession.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (make sure it’s vegan)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings like paprika, chili powder, or dried parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the head into florets and place them in a bowl.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower, sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and any additional seasonings you like.
5. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Cook the cauliflower for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove the air fryer basket from the oven and toss the cauliflower with buffalo sauce until well coated.
8. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
Cooking Time: 14-17 minutes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into a deliciously crispy snack with minimal effort using your air fryer. This recipe yields a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: paprika, garlic powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick). Rinse with cold water to remove excess starch.
3. Dry the sweet potato strips thoroughly with paper towels to promote crispiness.
4. In a bowl, drizzle olive oil over the sweet potatoes and sprinkle with salt. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the sweet potato strips in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Adjust cooking time based on desired level of crispiness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Herb Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful twist on a classic side dish, this recipe brings out the best in Brussels sprouts with the help of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with garlic, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the prepared Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the air fryer and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Falafel
Experience the crispy outside and fluffy inside of traditional falafel, minus the deep-frying. This vegan air fryer recipe yields a delicious and healthier twist on the Middle Eastern classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup whole wheat pita bread crumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add parsley, scallions, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
4. Gradually add pita bread crumbs and mix until the mixture forms a thick paste.
5. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 falafel patties.
6. Place the falafels in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Air Fryer Chickpeas
Add a kick to your snack game with these spicy air fryer chickpeas! A deliciously easy and healthy snack that’s perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 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
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt until well coated.
3. Load the mixture into the air fryer basket in an even layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Vegan Mozzarella Sticks
Transform your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and utterly vegan mozzarella sticks cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This recipe is a game-changer for vegans and cheese lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/2 cup vegan mozzarella shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free)
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together tofu, mozzarella shreds, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Shape into sticks (about 4-6) and brush with olive oil.
4. Coat each stick with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
6. Flip the mozzarella sticks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Transform zucchinis into crispy, flavorful chips with minimal effort using your air fryer. This simple recipe yields a delicious snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.
4. Load the zucchini slices in a single layer onto the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the air fryer and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings
Transform plain onions into crispy, flavorful rings with this easy vegan air fryer recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup vegan all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– Vegan Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each onion ring into the dry mixture, coating evenly.
3. Place coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and plant-based milk during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from air fryer and sprinkle with additional paprika if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your crispy vegan onion rings!
Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your stuffed bell pepper game with this easy and flavorful Air Fryer recipe! By cooking the peppers in an air fryer, you’ll achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in the Air Fryer basket.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crunchy Air Fryer Kale Chips
Transform your snack game with this easy and healthy recipe for Crunchy Air Fryer Kale Chips! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying crispy and delicious kale chips in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kale leaves (curly or lacinato work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. garlic powder, paprika, chili powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the stems from the kale leaves and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the kale and sprinkle with salt. Massage the leaves until they’re evenly coated.
4. Load the kale mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. Check on the chips after 10 minutes; if needed, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– For extra crunch, increase the cooking time or air fry at a higher temperature.
– Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination!
Vegan Air Fryer Spring Rolls
These vegan air fryer spring rolls are a game-changer, offering a crispy exterior and a flavorful, tender interior. Perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vegan spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped veggies (such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the chopped veggies, mashed tofu, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook the spring rolls in batches for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer BBQ Tempeh Strips
A flavorful and healthier twist on traditional chicken strips, these Air Fryer BBQ Tempeh Strips are perfect for a quick snack or addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh, crumbled
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together crumbled tempeh, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Using your hands or a spatula, shape the mixture into long strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Brush both sides of each strip with olive oil.
5. Place the tempeh strips in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp (Vegan)
Discover the perfect vegan twist on a classic seafood dish! This recipe yields crispy, flavorful coconut shrimp using air-frying technology.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, drained and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise (optional)
– Vegan tartar sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add tofu pieces to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place coated tofu pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve with vegan mayonnaise and tartar sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Vegan Dumplings
Say goodbye to deep-frying and hello to a healthier, vegan take on traditional dumplings! With this simple recipe, you can enjoy tender and flavorful air-fried dumplings that are perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vegan dumpling wrappers (usually found in the frozen section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, scallions, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mixed vegetables, tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Mix well.
3. Place a dumpling wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle or pleat it to form a wonton shape. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the dumplings, leaving some space between each one.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the dumplings are golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spicy Air Fryer Jackfruit Tacos
Spicy Air Fryer Jackfruit Tacos Recipe
Elevate your taco game with this innovative recipe that combines the tender texture of jackfruit with a spicy kick from the air fryer. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped jackfruit, olive oil, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Place the mixture in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked jackfruit, desired toppings, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Marinated Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your snack game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of portobello mushrooms with a tangy marinade, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, and thyme.
2. Add the mushrooms to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the mushrooms from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Place the mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. Mushrooms are done when tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Donut Holes
Vegan Air Fryer Donut Holes: A Sweet Treat with a Guilt-Free Twist
Get ready to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on your vegan lifestyle. These air-fried donut holes are the perfect treat for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine plant-based milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small balls of dough (about 1 inch in diameter) onto the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Slices
Transform sliced apples into a deliciously sweet and crispy treat using your air fryer. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 apples, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Load the apple mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Check for desired crispiness; if needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Banana Bread
Transform your favorite banana bread recipe into a crispy and delicious vegan treat using the air fryer! This recipe is perfect for snacking or as a sweet breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegan butter or oil
– 1 egg replacement (such as flaxseed or chia seeds)
– Optional: nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add vegan butter or oil and egg replacement; mix until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a lined air fryer basket or a small loaf pan.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the air fryer and let cool before slicing.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the ease and convenience of vegan cooking with these 20 scrumptious air fryer recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From crispy tofu bites to spicy jackfruit tacos, and from sweet potato fries to cinnamon apple slices, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make mouthwatering vegan mozzarella sticks, falafel, onion rings, and more with minimal effort. These quick and easy air fryer recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen, providing a delicious and cruelty-free alternative to traditional cooking methods.
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