Can you make the classic French dish ratatouille in an air fryer? Absolutely! This Air-Fried Ratatouille, Italian-style gives you tender, roasted vegetables with crisp edges and bold Mediterranean flavors. Packed with zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and Italian herbs, it’s a quick, healthy side dish that’s perfect for weeknights.
What Makes Air-Fried Ratatouille Different?
Traditional ratatouille is slow-cooked on the stove or baked in the oven. The air fryer, however, transforms the dish by:
- Cutting cooking time in half
- Creating crispy edges without excess oil
- Locking in fresh vegetable flavor
- Keeping the recipe low-calorie and nutrient-dense
With an Italian-style twist, this version uses extra garlic, oregano, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a bolder taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Air-Fried Ratatouille, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prep the Vegetables
- Wash and cut all vegetables into even bite-sized pieces.
- Pat dry with a paper towel (this helps them crisp).
2: Season
- In a large bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place vegetables in the basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
- Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4: Finish & Serve
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (optional) during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Air-Fried Ratatouille is incredibly versatile. You can:
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish
- Toss with pasta for a Mediterranean dinner
- Layer over crusty bread for an Italian bruschetta twist
- Enjoy as a light vegetarian main dish
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy → Ready in under 20 minutes
- Healthy → Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
- Versatile → Works as a side or main dish
- Authentic Flavor → Classic French roots with Italian flair
đź’ˇ Pro tip: For extra depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
Conclusion
This Air-Fried Ratatouille, Italian-style is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful Mediterranean classic. Crispy, colorful, and full of authentic Italian flair, it’s the perfect way to upgrade your weeknight veggies.
