Are you tired of sacrificing taste for health? Look no further! The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to create delicious and healthy meals with minimal oil and calories. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering and nutritious low-calorie air fryer recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals.
From crispy Brussels sprouts to succulent salmon fillets, our list features a variety of tasty and healthy options that are perfect for anyone looking to make healthier choices without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional or a health-conscious parent, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, sharing detailed instructions, nutritional information, and stunning photos to inspire your next meal. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this culinary journey and discover the endless possibilities of air fryer cooking!
Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Get ready to transform humble Brussels sprouts into a crispy, caramelized delight with this easy Air Fryer recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until they’re evenly coated.
3. Load the Brussels sprouts into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each sprout for even cooking.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Sprouts should be tender and caramelized, with crispy edges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low Calorie Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Get ready to enjoy crispy and juicy air fryer chicken tenders with significantly fewer calories! This recipe uses a simple blend of herbs and spices to flavor the chicken, while keeping the calorie count in check.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt-free seasoning blend
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together paprika, garlic powder, and seasoning blend.
3. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
Transform zucchinis into crispy fries with this easy air fryer recipe. Perfect for a healthy snack or side dish, these zucchini fries are low in calories and big on flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., paprika, Italian seasoning)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into long, thin strips, like French fries.
3. In a bowl, toss the zucchini strips with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
4. Load the zucchini fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the air fryer when crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Healthy Air Fryer Salmon
This recipe yields a deliciously moist and flavorful salmon dish with minimal oil and effort. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this air fryer salmon is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a non-stick mat.
3. Rinse the salmon fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
5. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and brush the mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Low Calorie Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings
Transform cauliflower into crispy “wings” with minimal calories and effort. This recipe is a game-changer for healthy snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings such as cayenne pepper or dried herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until well coated.
3. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on your air fryer’s capacity.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. The cauliflower should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet Potato Wedges in the Air Fryer: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Snack!
Crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these sweet potato wedges are perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Optional: garlic powder or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Toss the sweet potato wedges with the oil mixture until evenly coated.
5. Load the wedges into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until crispy, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your snack game with these healthier turkey meatballs, made with minimal added salt and sugar. Perfect for a quick appetizer or mid-day pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, carrot, onion, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve hot with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low Calorie Air Fryer Shrimp Skewers
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional shrimp skewers, these low-calorie air fryer versions are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer.
5. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, shaking halfway.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Broccoli recipe. This tasty treat is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss broccoli with garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Load the broccoli mixture into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
6. Remove from the Air Fryer and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy Air Fryer Eggplant Fries
Transform eggplant into crispy fries with minimal oil and effort using your air fryer! This recipe is perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Load the air fryer basket with the eggplant fries in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and crispy, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your healthy and delicious air-fried eggplant fries!
Low Calorie Air Fryer Cod Fillets
Enjoy a healthier take on cod fillets with this low-calorie air fryer recipe. With only a few ingredients, you can achieve crispy exterior and tender interior without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cod fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the cod fillets.
5. Place the cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Spicy Chickpeas
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this addictive Air Fryer recipe! These crispy, flavorful chickpeas are perfect for munching on while watching the game or as a healthy snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 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 for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Load the chickpeas into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Healthy Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Transform traditional stuffed peppers into a healthier, air-fried masterpiece with this simple recipe! By using lean ground turkey and whole grain rice, you’ll reduce the calorie count while maintaining the flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced in half
– 1 pound lean ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, cooked rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper half with the turkey mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
4. Place stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Low Calorie Air Fryer Tofu Bites
Transform plain tofu into crispy, flavorful bites with minimal calories using your air fryer! This recipe yields a delicious and healthy snack perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (reduced-sodium)
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together tofu, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the tofu bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cinnamon Apple Slices
Transform ordinary apple slices into a sweet and crispy treat with this simple air fryer recipe. Perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 apples, sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Cooking spray (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add apple slices to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the cinnamon mixture.
4. Load the apple slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. For extra crispiness, spray with cooking spray before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tips:
– Use any variety of apple you like, but firmer apples will yield better results.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– Experiment with other spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, for unique flavor combinations.
Healthy Air Fryer Quinoa Patties
A nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional quinoa patties, these air-fried bites are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Made with wholesome ingredients and minimal oil, they’re a great option for health-conscious foodies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and lime juice. Mix well.
3. Using your hands or a spatula, shape mixture into 4-6 patties.
4. Place patties in air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. If desired, brush with beaten egg during last minute of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Low Calorie Air Fryer Veggie Spring Rolls
Enjoy the perfect blend of crunch and flavor with these low-calorie air fryer veggie spring rolls, packed with nutritious veggies and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for air frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cabbage, carrots, scallions, cilantro, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the veggie mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil. Arrange spring rolls in a single layer, leaving some space between each roll.
7. Cook for 4-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking halfway through.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Asparagus
Quickly transform asparagus into a delicious and flavorful side dish with this simple recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the crispy texture of air frying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until the spears are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Load the asparagus mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through, or until the asparagus is tender and crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Healthy Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your snacking game with this easy and nutritious recipe that yields tender, flavorful portobello mushrooms with a satisfying crunch. Perfect as a snack or added to salads, sandwiches, and wraps.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced into quarters
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss mushroom quarters with olive oil, garlic powder, and oregano until evenly coated.
3. Place the mushrooms in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily.
5. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Low Calorie Air Fryer Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Elevate the humble chicken wrap with this healthier twist, perfect for those watching their calorie intake. This recipe uses air-frying to achieve crispy chicken without the extra oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced red bell peppers, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Air-fry chicken for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken onto lettuce leaves and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in delicious and healthy meals with these 20 mouth-watering air fryer recipes! From crispy Brussels sprouts to juicy chicken tenders, and from sweet potato wedges to quinoa patties, there’s something for everyone. These low-calorie recipes are perfect for those looking to cut down on fat and calories without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a vegetarian, these air fryer creations will satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet in check.
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