18 Quick and Easy Air Fryer Meals Healthy

Just like a master chef turning simple ingredients into culinary gold, your air fryer can transform everyday meals into healthy, flavor-packed dishes. You'll discover how this versatile appliance lets you create restaurant-worthy meals with minimal oil and maximum taste. From crispy chickpea tacos to perfectly seared salmon, these 18 recipes will revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine. Get ready to explore a world where healthy eating meets convenience, starting with these game-changing air fryer techniques.

Crispy Chickpea and Avocado Tacos

Crispy chickpeas transform these vegetarian tacos into a protein-rich, satisfying meal that even meat lovers will enjoy. The contrast between the crunchy air-fried chickpeas and creamy avocado creates a delightful textural experience that elevates this simple dish to new heights.

The air fryer perfectly roasts the chickpeas, giving them a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior. When combined with fresh ingredients and warm tortillas, these tacos deliver a restaurant-quality meal that's both healthy and flavorful, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

• 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and dried
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Optional: hot sauce or salsa

Thoroughly dry the chickpeas with paper towels, removing any loose skins. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil and seasonings until evenly coated. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Add the seasoned chickpeas to the air fryer basket in a single layer, cooking for 12-15 minutes until crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.

While the chickpeas cook, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Once the chickpeas are done, assemble the tacos by layering tortillas with crispy chickpeas, sliced avocado, shredded cabbage, and cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over each taco before serving.

For best results, serve these tacos immediately while the chickpeas are still hot and crispy. To maintain the chickpeas' crunchiness, avoid adding wet toppings directly on top of them. Store any leftover chickpeas separately from other ingredients, and reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispiness before assembling additional tacos.

Mediterranean Salmon With Herbs

Mediterranean Salmon with Herbs combines the heart-healthy benefits of salmon with the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The air fryer perfectly seals in the moisture while creating a delicately crispy exterior, resulting in restaurant-quality fish in minutes.

This recipe features fresh herbs like dill, oregano, and parsley, complemented by classic Mediterranean ingredients such as lemon, garlic, and olive oil. The combination creates a light yet satisfying meal that's both nutritious and full of flavor.

• 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the salmon fillets, ensuring even coverage. Let the salmon marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and desired doneness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If the fillets are particularly thick, you may need to add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time. The leftover marinade can be heated in a small saucepan and drizzled over the cooked salmon for extra flavor.

Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites transform ordinary cauliflower into a crave-worthy appetizer that rivals traditional chicken wings. The air fryer creates the perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior, all while using significantly less oil than deep frying.

These vegetarian-friendly bites pack a flavorful punch with the classic combination of hot sauce and butter, making them an excellent choice for game day snacks, party appetizers, or a unique side dish. The crispy coating and spicy sauce create an addictive combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• Cooking spray
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

The preparation begins by cutting the cauliflower into evenly-sized florets and creating a batter with flour, seasonings, and milk. Each piece should be thoroughly coated in the batter mixture. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Work in batches, arranging the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring pieces don't touch.

Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. While the cauliflower cooks, combine the hot sauce and melted butter in a bowl. Once the cauliflower is done, toss the pieces in the buffalo sauce mixture until well coated, then return to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the sauce.

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket as this will prevent proper crisping. If the batter seems too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a consistency that coats the cauliflower without being clumpy. The florets can be prepped and battered in advance, but should be cooked just before serving for optimal crispiness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

Zucchini and Sweet Potato Fritters

These crispy, golden-brown fritters combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the mild, tender texture of zucchini to create a delicious and nutritious air fryer dish. The result is a perfect balance of flavors that works great as a side dish or light main course.

Air frying these fritters delivers the satisfying crunch of traditional deep-fried versions but with significantly less oil. The combination of vegetables provides an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, while the eggs and flour bind everything together for a perfectly cohesive patty.

Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Combine the drained zucchini with grated sweet potato in a large bowl. Add eggs, flour, onion, garlic, and seasonings, mixing until well combined. Form the mixture into 3-inch patties, approximately 1/2 inch thick.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the fritters in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each one. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, carefully flip, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can prevent proper crisping. The fritters can be kept warm in a low-temperature oven while cooking remaining batches. If the mixture becomes too wet between batches, add a small amount of flour to maintain the right consistency. These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.

• 2 medium zucchini, grated
• 1 large sweet potato, grated
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Olive oil spray
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast

Lemon garlic chicken breast prepared in an air fryer delivers a perfect combination of tender meat and crispy exterior, while maintaining the chicken's natural juiciness. The citrus and garlic infusion creates a bright, savory flavor profile that transforms an ordinary chicken breast into a memorable meal.

This quick and efficient cooking method takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners. The air fryer's circulating heat ensures even cooking and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust without the need for excessive oil.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and all seasonings in a bowl. Place chicken breasts in the mixture and let them marinate for 15-30 minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

For best results, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating to ensure uniform cooking. If the chicken breasts are particularly large, increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and steam instead of the desired crispy exterior.

Thai-Style Green Beans

Thai-Style Air Fryer Green Beans combine the crispy texture of traditional stir-fried green beans with the convenience of air frying. The dish captures authentic Thai flavors through a balanced blend of sweet, spicy, and savory components, making it an excellent side dish or vegetarian main course.

This recipe transforms ordinary green beans into a flavorful dish that requires minimal oil while maintaining the characteristic Thai taste profile. The air fryer creates a perfect char on the beans while keeping their interior tender, and the sauce adds layers of complexity through fish sauce, garlic, and chili.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 teaspoons coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Thai bird chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• Salt to taste

Toss the green beans with vegetable oil and arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. While the beans cook, combine fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, garlic, and chilies in a small bowl. When the beans are nearly done, toss them with the sauce mixture and return to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce caramelizes slightly.

Transfer the finished beans to a serving plate and garnish with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of lime juice. The beans should be tender-crisp with slightly charred spots and a glossy coating of sauce.

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket as this can lead to uneven cooking. If cooking a large batch, work in multiple batches to ensure each bean gets proper air circulation. The sauce can be prepared ahead of time, but don't add it until the final few minutes of cooking to prevent burning. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, though the texture is best when served immediately.

Turkey and Quinoa Meatballs

Turkey and quinoa meatballs combine lean protein with nutrient-rich ancient grains for a healthier twist on traditional meatballs. These versatile spheres of goodness are perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying comfort food flavors.

The air fryer method creates a beautiful golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Unlike pan-frying or baking, air frying requires minimal oil while achieving that sought-after crispy texture that makes meatballs so satisfying.

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Mix all ingredients except olive oil in a large bowl until well combined. Form mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, being careful not to overwork the meat. Brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, then place meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between each. Air fry at 375°F for 12-14 minutes, turning halfway through cooking time, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is golden brown.

For optimal results, ensure the meatballs are uniform in size and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. These can be made ahead and frozen raw or cooked. If cooking from frozen, add 3-4 minutes to the cooking time and check internal temperature before serving.

Extra Tip: To prevent the meatballs from sticking and to maintain their round shape, refrigerate them for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold together better during the cooking process and makes them easier to turn halfway through. If you find the mixture too wet, add more breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Sesame-Crusted Tofu Steaks

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, sesame-crusted tofu steaks are a delicious plant-based main dish that perfectly showcases the versatility of tofu. The air fryer creates a wonderfully crunchy exterior while maintaining the tofu's moisture, resulting in a satisfying texture contrast that makes this dish particularly appealing.

The key to success with this recipe lies in proper tofu preparation and a flavorful sesame coating. The combination of white and black sesame seeds not only creates visual appeal but also provides a nutty depth that complements the mild tofu. When paired with a dipping sauce, these tofu steaks become a complete protein-rich meal.

• 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu
• 3 tablespoons white sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Press the tofu block for at least 30 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into 4 equal slices. Mix the white and black sesame seeds with cornstarch, garlic powder, and black pepper in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce and sesame oil. Dip each tofu slice in the soy sauce mixture, then coat thoroughly with the sesame seed mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated tofu steaks in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Spray the top of the tofu lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 12-15 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crispy.

For best results, avoid moving the tofu steaks too much during cooking to prevent the coating from falling off. The tofu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the coating will soften. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts

Honey mustard Brussels sprouts are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that transform these often-misunderstood vegetables into a crave-worthy side dish. The air fryer creates perfectly crispy outer leaves while maintaining a tender interior, making them irresistible even to skeptics.

The key to this recipe's success lies in the balance between honey's sweetness and mustard's sharpness, while the high-heat cooking method caramelizes the natural sugars in the sprouts. This dish takes only minutes to prepare and cook, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.

Trim the Brussels sprouts, removing any yellowed outer leaves and cutting larger ones in half lengthwise. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, both mustards, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the Brussels sprouts and toss until evenly coated.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time, until the sprouts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to steaming rather than crisping. The sprouts should be completely dry before tossing with the honey mustard mixture, and try to ensure they're similarly sized for even cooking. If reheating leftovers, a quick 2-3 minute session in the air fryer at 350°F will restore their crispiness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Greek-Style Eggplant Rounds

Greek-Style Eggplant Rounds are a delightful Mediterranean dish that transforms humble eggplant into crispy, flavorful rounds using the convenience of an air fryer. The combination of Greek seasonings, olive oil, and the natural earthiness of eggplant creates a perfect appetizer or side dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

This air fryer version significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional pan-frying methods, while still achieving the desired golden-brown exterior and tender interior. The addition of Greek herbs and a light breading gives these eggplant rounds a satisfying crunch and authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Salt the eggplant rounds and let them sit for 30 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dip each eggplant round in beaten egg, then coat with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush or spray the breaded eggplant rounds with olive oil. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

For best results, avoid stacking the eggplant rounds in the air fryer as this will prevent proper crisping. If your eggplant is particularly large, you may need to cook in multiple batches. These rounds are best served immediately while hot and crispy, although they can be reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F if needed. Consider serving with tzatziki sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra touch of Greek flavor.

BBQ Coconut Shrimp

BBQ Coconut Shrimp combines the tropical sweetness of coconut with smoky barbecue flavors, creating a unique fusion that's both crispy and succulent. The air fryer perfectly cooks the shrimp while achieving a golden-brown exterior without excessive oil.

This dish transforms ordinary shrimp into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that's ready in minutes. The coconut coating provides a delightful crunch, while the BBQ sauce adds a tangy depth that complements the seafood's natural sweetness.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with combined coconut and panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each shrimp in flour, dip in egg, then coat with the coconut-panko mixture. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange shrimp in a single layer.

Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the shrimp are pink and cooked through. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the shrimp with BBQ sauce. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

For best results, maintain space between shrimp pieces in the air fryer to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness. If the coconut starts browning too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly. The shrimp can be prepared and breaded up to 2 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Teriyaki Chicken Wings

This recipe transforms basic chicken wings into an irresistible appetizer or main course that rivals restaurant-quality wings. The air fryer's rapid air circulation ensures even cooking and creates that sought-after crispy exterior while maintaining the tender, succulent meat inside.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken wings, split at joints
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Pat the wings dry with paper towels and toss them with vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

In the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the wings with teriyaki sauce, allowing it to caramelize. Once done, toss the wings in the remaining sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

For optimal results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this will prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking. The wings can be marinated in half of the teriyaki sauce for 2-4 hours before cooking for enhanced flavor, but be sure to pat them dry before air frying to achieve maximum crispiness.

Rainbow Vegetable Medley

The key to perfecting this dish lies in cutting the vegetables into similarly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. The air fryer's rapid air circulation creates a wonderful caramelization on the outside while keeping the vegetables tender-crisp on the inside, preserving their natural flavors and nutritional benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup purple cauliflower florets
• 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss all the vegetables with olive oil and seasonings until evenly coated. Working in batches if necessary, arrange the vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd.

Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring the vegetables halfway through the cooking time. The vegetables should be tender-crisp and lightly charred on the edges. Depending on your air fryer's size, you may need to cook in multiple batches to achieve the best results.

For best results, consider the cooking times of different vegetables – harder vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower may need an extra minute or two compared to peppers and squash. If cooking in batches, keep the cooked vegetables warm in a low-temperature oven until ready to serve. Avoid using too much oil, as excess oil can create smoke in the air fryer and make the vegetables soggy rather than crispy.

Herbed Fish Fillets

Air-fried herbed fish fillets offer a healthier alternative to traditional pan-fried fish while maintaining that coveted crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. This method requires minimal oil and creates less mess while producing restaurant-quality results in just minutes.

The key to perfectly herbed fish fillets lies in selecting fresh herbs and quality fish. While any white fish works well, species like cod, halibut, or tilapia are particularly suitable due to their mild flavor and firm texture that holds up well during air frying.

Ingredients:

• 4 white fish fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and brush them with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine all herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and paprika. Press the herb mixture onto both sides of the fish fillets, ensuring even coverage. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

For optimal results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and consider cooking in batches if necessary. Let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving. The herbs can be adjusted according to preference or availability, and dried herbs can be substituted at a ratio of 1:3 (1 teaspoon dried for 1 tablespoon fresh).

Black Bean and Corn Taquitos

Black Bean and Corn Taquitos are a delicious Tex-Mex inspired dish that transforms simple ingredients into crispy, golden-brown rolls filled with a savory mixture. These taquitos deliver the satisfying crunch traditionally achieved through deep-frying, but with significantly less oil thanks to the air fryer's circulating heat technology.

The combination of black beans and corn creates a hearty, protein-rich filling that's both nutritious and flavorful. When paired with Mexican spices and melted cheese, these ingredients form a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that appeal to both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Olive oil spray
• Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream

Mash the black beans in a bowl until partially smooth while leaving some beans whole for texture. Mix in the corn, cheese, and all seasonings until well combined. Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave between damp paper towels for 30 seconds to make them pliable. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of filling on each tortilla, roll tightly, and secure with a toothpick if needed.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the taquitos with olive oil on all sides. Place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

For best results, avoid overfilling the taquitos as this can cause them to burst during cooking. Store any leftover filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat cooked taquitos in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to restore their crispiness. If the corn tortillas crack while rolling, try warming them longer or keeping them covered while working with one at a time.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus

Garlic Parmesan asparagus made in an air fryer creates a perfectly crispy exterior while maintaining the vegetable's tender interior. The combination of fresh garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil transforms this simple side dish into a restaurant-quality accompaniment for any meal.

This recipe takes just minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer method ensures even cooking and creates a delightful texture that's hard to achieve with other cooking methods.

Wash and trim the asparagus spears by snapping off the woody ends at their natural breaking point. In a large bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Place the seasoned asparagus in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. The spears should be tender-crisp and lightly browned when done.

For best results, choose asparagus spears of similar thickness to ensure even cooking. If using thicker spears, you may need to increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Additionally, avoid washing the asparagus right before cooking as excess moisture can prevent proper crisping. If you're working with wet asparagus, pat it completely dry with paper towels before seasoning.

• 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Cups

Air fryer turkey lettuce cups offer a lighter twist on traditional Asian-style lettuce wraps while maintaining authentic flavors. The air fryer helps create perfectly browned ground turkey with crispy edges while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

This quick and healthy meal combines lean protein with fresh vegetables and aromatic Asian seasonings, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. The dish delivers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes that work well for both lunch and dinner options, while keeping the calorie count reasonable.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey with sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and onion. Place the mixture in the air fryer basket, breaking it up into small chunks. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the turkey is browned and cooked through. Add water chestnuts, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha to the cooked turkey mixture. Air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and create crispy edges.

To serve, spoon the turkey mixture into individual lettuce leaves, then top with green onions, cilantro, and crushed peanuts. The lettuce cups can be assembled just before eating to maintain optimal crispness.

For best results, drain any excess liquid from the turkey mixture before adding the sauces to prevent soggy lettuce cups. The filling can be made ahead and reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes when ready to serve. Choose lettuce leaves that are sturdy enough to hold the filling – butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce work particularly well for this dish.

Cajun-Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges

Perfect for those craving a spicy twist on traditional sweet potato fries, these Cajun-spiced sweet potato wedges deliver a delightful combination of sweet and heat. The air fryer creates a wonderfully crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, fluffy interior that makes these wedges irresistible.

This healthier alternative to deep-fried potatoes requires minimal oil while achieving maximum flavor through a carefully balanced blend of Cajun seasonings. The natural sweetness of the potatoes perfectly complements the bold, zesty spices, creating a versatile side dish that pairs well with burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Wash and cut sweet potatoes into even wedges, approximately 1-inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and toss with olive oil until evenly coated. In a separate small bowl, combine all the spices and mix well. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the oiled sweet potatoes and toss until wedges are thoroughly coated.

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange the seasoned wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The wedges should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.

For best results, cut the wedges in uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. If the wedges are too crowded in the air fryer, cook them in batches rather than overlapping them. Let the cooked wedges rest for 2-3 minutes before serving, as they'll continue to crisp up slightly as they cool. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.