The Mediterranean diet has long been hailed as one of the healthiest and most flavorful eating styles out there. With its emphasis on whole grains, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins, it’s no wonder that people love to cook up a storm with these classic ingredients. But what if you could take all those delicious flavors and put them in an air fryer? Game-changer! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Mediterranean air fryer recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From crispy falafel to zucchini fritters with tzatziki sauce, these tasty dishes prove that the air fryer is not just for junk food – it’s a culinary game-changer!
Air Fryer Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean in this delightful and healthy recipe that combines sweet bell peppers with savory ingredients. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, feta cheese, olives, artichoke hearts, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Falafel
Crispy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe
Get ready to elevate your falafel game with this crispy and flavorful air fryer recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying deliciously crunchy falafels in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add parsley, cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Beat in the egg until mixture is sticky but not too wet.
5. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Shape mixture into 8-10 falafel patties.
7. Cook falafels in batches for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per batch
Air Fryer Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers
Air Fryer Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers Recipe
Get ready to savor the bright flavors of Greece with these juicy and tender chicken skewers infused with the zesty goodness of lemon, garlic, and herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Cook the skewers in batches if necessary, in the preheated air fryer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this crispy and savory eggplant parmesan recipe, air-fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Flip eggplant slices and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. While eggplant is cooking, heat marinara sauce with garlic and lemon juice to taste.
7. Assemble parmesan sandwiches by placing cooked eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes in the air fryer to melt cheese.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters with Tzatziki
Enjoy the perfect summer treat with these light and crispy air fryer zucchini fritters served with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape mixture into small patties.
4. Place patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herb-Roasted Air Fryer Mediterranean Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the crispiness of air frying with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the potato wedges to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Load the potatoes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check for crispiness and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 17-22 minutes
Air Fryer Mediterranean Shrimp Kebabs
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious shrimp kebab recipe, cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat the 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 and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the kebabs in the air fryer basket, leaving some space around them for even cooking.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as quinoa, roasted vegetables, or pita bread!
Spicy Air Fryer Harissa Carrots
A flavorful twist on roasted carrots, these Spicy Air Fryer Harissa Carrots are a perfect side dish for any meal. The air fryer’s crispy texture and the spicy kick from harissa make this recipe a game-changer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp harissa paste
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together carrots, olive oil, harissa paste, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Load the carrot mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Mediterranean Cauliflower Steaks
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and healthy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with zesty herby notes. This side dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove the leaves. Cut into thick slabs (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm) and place in a single layer on the air fryer basket.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with lemon zest, garlic powder, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, shaking halfway through.
5. If using feta cheese, crumble on top of the cauliflower steaks during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Air Fryer Lamb Koftas
Get a taste of the Mediterranean with these flavorful and tender lamb koftas, cooked to perfection in just minutes using your air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into small koftas, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the koftas in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-6 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Air Fryer Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the savory charm of Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the zucchinis and hollow out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, feta cheese, olives, artichoke hearts, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis in the Air Fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Halloumi Fries
Elevate your snack game with this easy and impressive recipe for Crispy Air Fryer Halloumi Fries. This cheesy, crispy, and addictive treat is perfect for a quick appetizer or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 1 pound), cut into fry shapes
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each halloumi piece into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place the coated halloumi pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and any desired additional seasonings.
5. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat as needed to cook all the fries.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Air Fryer Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Salmon
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and healthy air fryer recipe. Crispy salmon fillets are topped with a fragrant blend of herbs, lemon zest, and breadcrumbs for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup Mediterranean herb mix (oregano, thyme, rosemary, parsley)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Mediterranean herb mix, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Place salmon fillets in a single layer on the air fryer basket. Brush the top of each fillet with the herb mixture.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the herb-crusted salmon.
5. Cook for 12-14 minutes or until salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Easy Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites
Easy Air Fryer Spanakopita Bites: A twist on the classic Greek spinach and feta pastry, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. With minimal prep work and no need to thaw frozen puff pastry, you’ll be enjoying crispy, cheesy goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta, Parmesan, and egg. Mix well.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into 1-inch squares and place a small spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center of each square.
5. Fold pastry over filling to form triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place bites in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Air Fryer Mediterranean Stuffed Tomatoes
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory goodness of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, parsley, oregano, and garlic.
3. Stuff each tomato half with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
4. Drizzle the tops of the tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlicky Air Fryer Mediterranean Green Beans
Elevate your green bean game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the savory flavors of the Mediterranean. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, toss green beans with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Load the green bean mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. If using feta cheese, sprinkle on top of green beans during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Mediterranean Chickpea Patties
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and savory chickpea patties infused with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer, this air fryer recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add breadcrumbs, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
4. Using your hands, shape mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Place patties in air fryer basket, leaving space between each patty.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon-Garlic Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the best of citrus and garlic with tender chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering Mediterranean air fryer recipes that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast! From classic dishes like crispy falafel and juicy lamb koftas, to innovative creations like stuffed peppers and zucchini boats, these flavorful recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With a focus on fresh herbs, citrusy flavors, and rich spices, each dish is a delicious representation of the Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on healthy eating and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for inspiration, this collection has something for everyone. So why wait? Dive in and start cooking up a storm with these scrumptious Mediterranean air fryer recipes!
