Looking to put your air fryer to use with some mouthwatering vegan recipes? Look no further! This article is filled with a collection of delicious and plant-based recipes specifically designed for air fryers. From crispy tofu bites to perfectly roasted veggies, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your meals healthy and cruelty-free. So dust off that air fryer and get ready to explore a whole new world of vegan culinary delights! Yes, there definitely are! Air fryers have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their ability to crisp food without the need for excessive oil. And the great news is that there are plenty of delicious vegan recipes specifically tailored for air fryers. So, whether you’re already a vegan or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, you can enjoy a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore some fantastic vegan recipes that you can prepare using an air fryer.
Main Dishes
Breaded Tofu Nuggets
Tofu is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into crispy nuggets in the air fryer. The tofu nuggets are coated with a seasoned breading mixture and then air-fried until golden and crunchy. These breaded tofu nuggets are the perfect substitute for traditional chicken nuggets and make for a delicious main dish or appetizer.
Crispy Chickpea Falafels
Falafels are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, and with an air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier version of these chickpea-based delights. Made with a blend of chickpeas, herbs, and spices, these crispy falafels are easy to make and pack a flavorful punch. Serve them in pita bread, on a salad, or as a side dish for a satisfying meal.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
A vegetable stir-fry is a quick and easy option for a healthy and satisfying main dish. With an air fryer, you can achieve a delicious caramelized texture on your veggies without the need for excessive oil. Toss your favorite assortment of vegetables in a flavorful sauce and air-fry them to perfection. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Sweet Potato Fries
Who doesn’t love a plate of crispy sweet potato fries? With an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispy exterior and soft interior without the need for deep frying. Simply cut your sweet potatoes into fries, season them to your liking, and air-fry until golden brown. These fries make for a tasty side dish or snack.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo cauliflower has gained popularity as a delicious vegan alternative to buffalo wings. With an air fryer, you can achieve that irresistible crispy texture while keeping the cauliflower tender on the inside. Toss your cauliflower florets in a spicy buffalo sauce and air-fry them until they are perfectly cooked. Serve with your favorite vegan dipping sauce for a satisfying and flavor-packed main dish.
Appetizers and Snacks
Crispy Zucchini Fritters
Zucchini fritters are a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini and make for a tasty appetizer or snack. Rather than frying them in oil, use your air fryer to achieve that crispy texture. The air fryer allows the fritters to cook evenly and eliminates the need for excessive oil. These crispy zucchini fritters are flavorful and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
Coconut Crusted Onion Rings
Onion rings are a classic appetizer, and with an air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier version of this beloved snack. Coat your onion rings in a deliciously crispy coconut crust and air-fry them to perfection. The coconut adds a tropical twist to the classic onion rings, making them a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are always a crowd favorite, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delectable crispy topping while keeping the mushrooms tender. Fill your mushrooms with a savory stuffing made from breadcrumbs, herbs, and vegan cheese. Air-fry until the mushrooms are cooked and the topping is golden brown. These stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer or a delicious side dish.
Spicy Cauliflower Wings
If you love spicy food, then spicy cauliflower wings are a must-try in your air fryer. Toss your cauliflower florets in a spicy sauce and air-fry them until they are crispy and delicious. These spicy cauliflower wings are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer at parties. Serve them with a cooling dip to balance out the heat.
Air-Fried Green Bean Fries
Green bean fries are a fun and unique alternative to traditional french fries. With an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy texture on the green beans while keeping them tender on the inside. Dip your green bean fries in a tangy sauce or dressing for a flavorful snack or appetizer.
Breads and Pastries
Vegan Air Fryer Donuts
Donuts are a beloved treat, and with an air fryer, you can make a delicious batch of vegan donuts without the need for deep frying. The air fryer achieves a crispy and golden exterior while keeping the donut fluffy and soft on the inside. Coat your donuts in your favorite glaze or topping and enjoy these vegan air fryer donuts for breakfast or dessert.
Air-Fried Bagels
Bagels are a staple breakfast item for many, and with the help of an air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly crispy exterior on your homemade bagels. After boiling and baking your bagels, give them a final crisping in the air fryer. You’ll be rewarded with a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with your favorite spreads or toppings.
Cinnamon Sugar Biscuit Bites
These cinnamon sugar biscuit bites are a delicious sweet treat that can be made quickly and easily in an air fryer. Using pre-made biscuit dough, roll the dough into bite-sized pieces and coat them in a cinnamon sugar mixture. Air-fry until golden brown and enjoy the warm and fluffy bites of cinnamon goodness.
Apple Fritters
Apple fritters are a delightful treat that can be made in your air fryer without the need for deep frying. Mix chunks of fresh apples into a sweet batter, drop spoonfuls into the air fryer, and cook until golden brown. These apple fritters are perfect for a cozy dessert or a special breakfast treat.
Air-Fried Pretzels
Soft pretzels are a classic snack, and with an air fryer, you can enjoy them without the need for a trip to the fair or a pretzel shop. After shaping your pretzels, give them a quick dip in a baking soda solution and then air-fry until they are beautifully golden and perfectly chewy. These air-fried pretzels are great for snacking or serving at parties.
Desserts
Air-Fried Banana Spring Rolls
Banana spring rolls are a delicious dessert that can be made in your air fryer for a healthier twist. Roll ripe bananas in spring roll wrappers, spray with oil, and air-fry until crispy and golden. Serve these delightful treats with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vegan ice cream for a satisfying dessert.
Vegan Churros
Churros are a beloved Spanish treat, and with an air fryer, you can enjoy a vegan version of these delectable pastries. Pipe your churro dough into long sticks, air-fry until crispy, and toss in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. These vegan churros are perfect for dipping in chocolate sauce or enjoying on their own.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Who can resist a warm and gooey chocolate chip cookie? With an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect texture without the need for an oven. Simply prepare your cookie dough, scoop it onto a baking sheet, and air-fry until the cookies are golden brown and deliciously soft. Enjoy these homemade chocolate chip cookies straight from the air fryer!
Fruit Hand Pies
Hand pies are a delightful dessert that can be made in your air fryer using a variety of fruits. Prepare your favorite fruit filling, encase it in pastry dough, and air-fry until golden and flaky. These fruit hand pies are perfect for enjoying on their own or serving with a scoop of vegan ice cream.
Air-Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
Cinnamon apple rings are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried apple fritters. Slice your apples into rings, dip them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and air-fry until they are golden and tender. These air-fried cinnamon apple rings are perfect for enjoying as a sweet and satisfying dessert.
Side Dishes
Sesame Garlic Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a nutritious and flavorful vegetable that can be enhanced with the help of an air fryer. Toss your brussels sprouts in a sesame garlic sauce and air-fry until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These sesame garlic brussels sprouts make for a delicious side dish that can accompany any main course.
Crispy Asparagus Fries
Asparagus fries are a fun twist on the classic vegetable side dish. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve that delightful crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. Coat your asparagus in a seasoned breading, air-fry until golden and crunchy, and enjoy these crispy asparagus fries as a unique and flavorful side dish.
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish, and with an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispy exterior and tender interior. Toss your potatoes in a flavorful blend of garlic and herbs, air-fry until golden brown, and enjoy these delicious roasted potatoes alongside your favorite main dish.
Air-Fried Onion Bhajis
Onion bhajis are a popular Indian snack, and with an air fryer, you can enjoy these crispy fritters without deep frying. Create a batter using chickpea flour and spices, mix in thinly sliced onions, and air-fry until golden brown and deliciously crispy. These air-fried onion bhajis make for a tasty side dish or appetizer.
Miso-Glazed Eggplant
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be transformed into a delicious side dish with the help of an air fryer. Brush your eggplant slices with a miso glaze, air-fry until tender and caramelized, and enjoy the savory and umami flavors of this delightful dish. Serve the miso-glazed eggplant as a side or as part of a larger meal.
Breakfast and Brunch
Air-Fried Tofu Scramble
Tofu scramble is a popular vegan alternative to scrambled eggs, and it can be easily prepared in your air fryer. Season crumbled tofu with your favorite spices, air-fry until heated through, and enjoy this protein-packed breakfast or brunch dish. Serve it with toast, vegan sausage, or alongside a fresh salad.
Vegan Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast burritos are a delicious and filling option to kick start your day, and with an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crisp on the outside. Fill your tortillas with a variety of vegan ingredients such as tofu scramble, sautéed vegetables, vegan cheese, and salsa. Air-fry until heated through and enjoy these flavorful vegan breakfast burritos.
Blueberry Almond Pancakes
Pancakes are a classic breakfast favorite, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly fluffy and golden batch of vegan pancakes. Prepare your batter using almond milk and fresh blueberries, cook the pancakes in the air fryer, and enjoy them with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup and vegan butter.
Crispy Hash Browns
Hash browns are a beloved breakfast staple, and with an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. Grate your potatoes, season them to your liking, squeeze out any excess moisture, form them into patties, and air-fry until golden brown and deliciously crispy. These crispy hash browns are perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Maple Pecan Granola
Granola is a versatile and nutritious breakfast option, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful crispy texture. Toss your oats, nuts, and seeds with a sweet maple syrup coating, air-fry until golden and crunchy, and enjoy this delicious homemade granola with plant-based milk or yogurt.
Soups and Stews
Air-Fried Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful classic, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a rich and velvety texture. Roast your tomatoes and garlic in the air fryer until caramelized, blend them with fresh basil and vegetable broth, heat until warmed through, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup.
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a creamy and satisfying option for those chilly days, and with an air fryer, you can achieve that velvety texture without the need for excessive cream. Roast your butternut squash in the air fryer until tender and caramelized, blend with vegetable broth and seasonings, heat until warmed through, and enjoy this creamy soup.
Spicy Lentil Stew
Lentil stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be made in your air fryer for a rich and satisfying meal. Sauté your onions, garlic, and spices in the air fryer, add in your lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth, and cook until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. This spicy lentil stew is perfect for a comforting dinner.
Roasted Vegetable Chowder
Chowders are creamy and comforting, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delicious roasted flavor in your vegetable chowder. Roast your vegetables in the air fryer until caramelized and tender, blend them with vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and seasonings, heat until warmed through, and enjoy a bowl of this flavorful chowder.
Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that can be easily adapted to a vegan version in your air fryer. Sauté your onions, garlic, and vegetables in the air fryer, add in your vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and beans, and simmer until all the flavors are combined. This minestrone soup is packed with hearty vegetables and is perfect for a comforting meal.
Salads
Crunchy Kale Caesar Salad
Kale Caesar salad is a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic Caesar salad, and with the help of an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful crunch on your kale. Massage your kale with your favorite dressing, air-fry until crispy, and top with vegan croutons and vegan parmesan for a delicious and satisfying salad.
Quinoa, Avocado, and Black Bean Salad
Quinoa salads are packed with protein and flavor, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful texture on your ingredients. Cook your quinoa, air-fry your corn and black beans, and toss them together with ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing. This quinoa, avocado, and black bean salad is perfect for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Asian Sesame Noodle Salad
Asian sesame noodle salad is a refreshing and flavorful option for a light lunch or dinner, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful crunch on your ingredients. Cook your noodles, air-fry your tofu or tempeh, and toss them together with your favorite crunchy vegetables and a tangy sesame dressing. This Asian sesame noodle salad is perfect for enjoying on a warm day.
Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad
Roasted beet and arugula salad is a vibrant and nutrient-packed option for a satisfying meal, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delicious caramelized flavor on your beets. Roast your beets in the air fryer until tender and caramelized, combine them with peppery arugula, toasted walnuts, and a tangy dressing. This roasted beet and arugula salad is perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Mediterranean couscous salad is a flavorful and filling option for a satisfying meal, and with an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful texture on your ingredients. Cook your couscous, air-fry your chickpeas or crispy tofu, and toss them together with fresh vegetables, kalamata olives, and a tangy dressing. This Mediterranean couscous salad is perfect for enjoying year-round.
Sauces and Dressings
Vegan Ranch Dressing
Vegan ranch dressing is a versatile and creamy option that can be used as a dip, dressing, or sauce. This vegan version of the classic ranch dressing is made with a base of plant-based mayonnaise and seasoned with herbs and spices. Whip up a batch of this delicious vegan ranch dressing to enhance the flavor of your salads, vegetable dips, or even as a topping for burgers and sandwiches.
Spicy Peanut Sauce
Spicy peanut sauce is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Made with creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and spices, this sauce can be used as a dip for spring rolls, a dressing for salads, or drizzled over stir-fried vegetables. Customize the level of spice to your liking and enjoy the addictive flavors of this spicy peanut sauce.
Creamy Tahini Dressing
Creamy tahini dressing is a tangy and creamy condiment that pairs perfectly with a variety of salads and grain bowls. Made with a base of tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, this dressing adds a rich and nutty flavor to your favorite dishes. Drizzle this creamy tahini dressing over roasted vegetables, salads, or use as a dip for fresh vegetables and enjoy the creamy goodness it provides.
Garlic Aioli
Garlic aioli is a creamy and garlicky sauce that can be used to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. Made with a base of vegan mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice, this versatile sauce is perfect for dipping fries, topping burgers, or spreading on sandwiches. Whip up a batch of this mouthwatering garlic aioli to take your meals to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Red Pepper Romesco Sauce
Red pepper romesco sauce is a vibrant and flavorful sauce that adds a burst of taste to a variety of dishes. Made with roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, and spices, this sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables, spreading on sandwiches, or using as a dip for crusty bread. Blend up a batch of this delicious red pepper romesco sauce and elevate the flavors of your meals.
Beverages
Creamy Vegan Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a cozy and comforting beverage, and with the help of a blender and your air fryer, you can achieve a creamy vegan version. Blend together plant-based milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla, heat it in the air fryer until warm and frothy, and enjoy a mug of this creamy vegan hot chocolate on a chilly day.
Matcha Green Tea Frappe
Matcha green tea frappe is a refreshing and energizing beverage that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Blend together matcha powder, plant-based milk, a touch of sweetener, and ice until smooth and creamy. The air fryer can be used to quickly cool down your matcha frappe, giving you a delightful and refreshing drink to enjoy.
Strawberry Watermelon Cooler
Strawberry watermelon cooler is a light and refreshing beverage perfect for those hot summer days. Blend together fresh strawberries, juicy watermelon, a touch of lime juice, and ice until smooth and icy. The air fryer can be used to quickly chill your drink, creating a delightful and refreshing cooler that will quench your thirst.
Pineapple Mint Smoothie
Pineapple mint smoothie is a tropical and refreshing beverage packed with vitamins and flavors. Blend together fresh pineapple, mint leaves, coconut milk, and a touch of sweetener until smooth and creamy. The air fryer can be used to quickly chill your smoothie, giving you a cool and refreshing drink that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Blueberry Basil Lemonade
Blueberry basil lemonade is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic lemonade. Blend together fresh blueberries, basil leaves, lemon juice, and a touch of sweetener until smooth and fragrant. The air fryer can be used to quickly cool down your lemonade, giving you a refreshing and delicious beverage to enjoy on a sunny day.
With all of these delicious vegan recipes tailored for air fryers, you have an abundance of options for every meal of the day. From main dishes to appetizers and snacks, there are recipes to satisfy any craving or occasion. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to create flavorful and healthy vegan dishes that you and your loved ones will enjoy!
