Ingredients:
- 1 lb eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Slice the eggplant into uniform rounds, sprinkle both sides with salt, and let them sit for 5 minutes to sweat.
- Pat the eggplant slices firmly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with a mixture of Panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Dip each slice into the flour (shaking off excess), then into the beaten egg, and finally press firmly into the Panko mixture for an even coating.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange slices in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and spray the tops generously with olive oil.
- Air fry for 4-5 minutes, flip the slices, spray the other side with oil, and fry for another 4-5 minutes until mahogany-colored and firm.