14 Ways to Use Your Air Fryer You Probably Didn't Think Of
Because air fryers are good for more than just homemade French fries and potato chips...
Most kitchen countertops include the usual suspects: a blender, coffee machine, and toaster, but another kitchen appliance that is quickly becoming a domestic staple — air fryers. (Still haven't picked one up? We Tested 9 Top-Rated Air Fryers. Here's What We Loved.) This amazing appliance was first introduced as a way to make crispy homemade French fries without drowning them in oil. (Say what?!) That’s right, an air fryer does not need to use all that oil to fry things. Instead, an air fryer circulates hot air around the food to cook it efficiently and quickly. (A thin layer of oil does still help things to crisp up, though!)
If you are wondering whether or not you need yet another kitchen appliance (hint: you do), here are 14 ways to use an air fryer you probably didn't think of before. If you already own an air fryer, you will be blown away and if you do not have an air fryer to call your own just yet, these creative culinary ideas will make you want to run out and buy one right away. Clear some kitchen counter space because there is a new kitchen appliance in town. Enter the air fryer.
Baked Goods
Don't worry about hitting up the local bakery for a batch of baked goods for the class bake or PTA fundraiser. (Your waistline and wallets will thank you.) That is right, an air fryer can be used to bake up various batches of baked goods including cakes, cookies, donuts and so much more.
Try it: 13 Fun Air Fryer Desserts from Pioneer Woman
Bruschetta Crostinis
Baking up a batch of bruschetta? Skip the oven and toast bread crostinis using the air fryer. All you need to do is air fry, top with tomatoes and serve. Appetizers are absolutely easy when you are using an air fryer!
Chicken
Whether you prefer chicken thighs and wings, fresh chicken tenders, or frozen chicken nuggets, chicken is one of the most air-fryer-friendly foods out there. You can even plate up a serving of chicken parmesan using an air fryer. (Mind...blown.) If you think chicken is basic, bland and boring, you clearly have not tried making chicken in an air fryer before.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great alternative to chips. They are super simple to snack on and make for a sensational salad topper. Better yet, they are easy to make in an air fryer. Just coat in extra olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite herbs, seasonings and spices, then air fry for about 5-10 minutes until you have achieved your desired level of toastiness or roastedness.
Deep Fried Ravioli
Ravioli is good on its own, but have you ever eaten fried ravioli? Put back the frozen fried ravioli from the grocery store and grab a chilled batch of your favorite ravioli instead. Coat in a thin layer of breadcrumbs and let the air fryer work its magic. Serve with a side of fire-roasted marinara sauce and a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese. It is as drool-worthy as it sounds.
Eggplant
Making an eggplant dish like baba ganoush or breaded eggplant parmesan and tight on time? Do not bother turning on the oven when you can utilize the air fryer instead. All you need is eggplant, olive oil, and about 20-ish minutes. (You’re welcome.)
Eggrolls
The ideal eggroll is no small feat and is definitely not for the faint of heart. Creating a crispy, crunchy shell with a well-cooked filling sounds super simple, but it can be a culinary challenge for many. Instead of wasting resources and valuable time executing egg rolls, drop them in the air fryer instead. A fried outside layer perfectly protects the delicious filling.
Fish Sticks
Who said fish sticks are just for the kids? Not us! Just like chicken, homemade fish sticks or frozen fish sticks both cook well using an airfryer. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a side of dipping sauces like cocktail sauce or tartar sauce for a quick meal or snack. Fish and chips anyone?
Try it: Cornflake Crusted Fish and Chips
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Nothing says comfort food more than a grilled cheese sandwich and bowl of homemade tomato soup. (Umm, yes, please.) Do not worry about getting those grill marks. Instead, pop that grilled cheese sandwich in the air fryer and perfect your homemade sammie with complete and utter ease.
Try it: Air Fryer Grilled Cheese from Sargento
Hard Boiled Eggs
This one may come as a total shocker, but hard-boiled eggs can be made in an air fryer — no water needed. All you have to do is air-fry, peel, eat and enjoy. That is it! Isn’t this an eggcellent idea? (We could not help ourselves. We just had to!)
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are the perfect on-the-go snack and make for a crispy and crunchy salad topper. But preparing nuts and seeds for the roasting process and waiting for them to roast can take time, and who has extra time for that? (Not us). Instead, toss them in the air fryer and enjoy a taste of roasted nuts and seeds without the painstaking process of roasting.
Roasted Carrots
Vegetable chips count as a crunchy snack, but if you prefer whole veggies, try roasting carrots in an air fryer. Simply coat in olive oil and a mixture of your favorite flavors then roast for about 7-8 minutes on one side. Finally, flip for another 5-6 minutes on the second side then serve and enjoy roasted carrots without all of the work.
Salmon
Air fryers are good for more than just fried fish sticks. If you prefer a fish filet, try salmon. Dinner is served!
Tortilla Chips
Throwing a fiesta or just celebrating Taco Tuesday? Skip the sodium-laden store-bought tortilla chips and make your own DIY version instead. All you need is an air fryer, fresh salsa, and a bowl of homemade guacamole. It is so easy, you will want it to be Taco Tuesday every day of the week.
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