Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and texture when cooking vegan meals? Look no further! The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to create crispy, golden-brown delights with minimal oil. And as a busy professional or parent, you know how important it is to have quick and easy recipes up your sleeve.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 vegan air fryer recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods like buffalo cauliflower bites and sweet potato fries, to international-inspired dishes like falafel and samosas, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Stay tuned for some serious kitchen inspiration and get ready to make mealtime a whole lot easier and delicious!
Air Fryer Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup vegan buffalo sauce (such as Annie’s Naturals)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
4. Add the buffalo mixture to the cauliflower and toss until the florets are well-coated.
5. Load the air fryer basket with cauliflower bites in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, or until tender and crispy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
Transform firm tofu into crispy, golden nuggets with minimal effort using your air fryer. This simple recipe yields a delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes (about 1 inch)
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Toss tofu cubes in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Load the coated tofu into your air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Falafel
Vegan Air Fryer Falafel Recipe
Savor the flavors of the Middle East with this easy and crispy vegan falafel recipe, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegan tahini sauce for serving (recipe not included)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher until coarsely textured.
3. Add breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8-10 falafel patties.
5. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with vegan tahini sauce and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Transform ordinary sweet potatoes into crispy, flavorful fries using your air fryer! This recipe yields a deliciously unique snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, 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. Pat the sweet potato strips dry with paper towels to help crispiness.
4. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings until evenly coated.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the sweet potato strips in a single layer, leaving some space between each strip.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), shaking halfway through.
7. Check for crispiness and cook an additional minute or two if needed.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Air Fryer Chickpeas
Elevate your snack game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with a kick of heat. This spicy air fryer chickpea dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Load the mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the air fryer and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
A crunchy and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion, these vegan air fryer zucchini chips are a game-changer. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
4. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and any desired seasonings to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
5. Toss the zucchini strips in the cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
6. Load the air fryer basket with the zucchini chips, leaving some space between each chip.
7. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your snack or meal game with this easy and flavorful recipe, featuring tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, cheese, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Spritz the tops of the bell peppers with cooking spray or oil.
6. Place the stuffed bell peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Elevate your veggie game with this simple and delicious recipe that yields crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
3. Load the prepared Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each sprout.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. The sprouts should be tender, caramelized, and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings
Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe
Discover the perfect vegan snack with this easy-to-make onion ring recipe using your air fryer!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, sliced into rings
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegan breadcrumbs (gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegan oil or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and breadcrumbs.
2. In a separate bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each onion ring into the wet mixture, then coat with the dry mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Grease the air fryer basket with vegan oil or cooking spray.
5. Arrange coated onion rings in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Mushroom Jerky
Transform ordinary mushrooms into a savory and addictive snack using your air fryer! This recipe yields a deliciously dry and chewy jerky that’s perfect for on-the-go munching.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), stems removed and caps sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the mushroom strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Load the marinated mushrooms into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check on the jerky; it should be dry and slightly caramelized. If not, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until desired level of dryness is reached.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Spring Rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional spring rolls, this vegan air fryer recipe yields crispy and delicious results with minimal oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section or online)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup cooked and mashed tofu
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, mashed tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable-tofu mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Air fry the spring rolls for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings
Transform cauliflower into a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional chicken wings with this easy air fryer recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the air fryer basket with cauliflower in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, or until cauliflower is tender and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Samosas
Vegan Air Fryer Samosas: A Crunchy Twist on a Classic Snack
Make the perfect vegan samosa at home with this easy recipe, using your air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior and flaky interior.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegan samosa filling of your choice (e.g., potatoes, peas, carrots)
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
- Place a tablespoon or two of your chosen samosa filling in the center of each pastry rectangle.
- Fold the pastry into a triangle and press the edges together to seal.
- Place the samosas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Air Fryer Kale Chips
Get ready to snack on a healthier version of your favorite chip! This recipe transforms kale into crispy, flavorful bites that are perfect for munching.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, massage the kale pieces with olive oil until they are evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle salt and any desired seasonings (garlic powder and/or lemon zest) over the kale and toss to combine.
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 the basket halfway through.
6. Check on the kale chips; they’re done when crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Corn Ribs
Vegan Air Fryer Corn Ribs Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this crispy and flavorful vegan take on traditional corn ribs!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings, such as chili powder or cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together corn kernels, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add any optional seasonings and stir well to combine.
4. Load the mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness; if not done, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until desired texture is reached.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Spicy Green Beans
Get ready to elevate your green bean game with this spicy and flavorful Air Fryer recipe! Crisp, tender, and bursting with flavor, these Air Fryer Spicy Green Beans are perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the green bean mixture into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Air Fryer Apple Chips
Vegan Air Fryer Apple Chips Recipe
Transform fresh apples into crispy, sweet, and healthy chips using your air fryer! This simple recipe yields a delicious snack perfect for on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add sliced apples to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Load the apple slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each slice.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until chips reach desired crispiness.
6. Halfway through cooking, shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Coconut-Crusted Tofu
A tropical twist on traditional tofu, this air fryer recipe yields a crispy and flavorful coconut-crusted exterior giving way to tender and juicy tofu interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
3. Toss tofu cubes in the coconut mixture until well coated.
4. Place tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, shaking halfway through.
6. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the tofu during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: With a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a side of your favorite tropical fruit, such as pineapple or mango.
Vegan Air Fryer Banana Fritters
Sweet and crispy, these vegan banana fritters are a game-changer for dessert lovers. Made with ripe bananas, oats, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re perfect for a quick treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
– Vegan egg replacement (e.g. flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Add oats, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
4. Gradually add non-dairy milk and mix until a thick batter forms.
5. Add vegan egg replacement and mix until combined.
6. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small portions of the batter into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes, shaking halfway through.
8. Remove fritters when golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per batch
Air Fryer Garlic Herb Potatoes
A flavorful twist on classic potatoes, these Air Fryer Garlic Herb Potatoes are a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss potatoes with garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Load the potato mixture into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your Air Fryer.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Potatoes should be tender and lightly browned.
5. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
