Air Fryer Okra
Air Fryer Okra is a quick, healthy, and delicious recipe that transforms fresh okra pods into crispy, golden bites full of flavor. Using an air fryer results in a light, crunchy texture with minimal oil, making it a perfect snack or side dish that’s easy to prepare for any occasion.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
- Total Time: 20 to 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh okra pods, washed and dried
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients for Extra Crunch
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs
Optional Variations
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary (for herb infusion)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast (to sprinkle after cooking)
- Almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko (for gluten-free version)
- Zest of ½ lemon (for brightness before serving)
- Prepare the Okra: Wash the fresh okra pods thoroughly and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Trim off the stem ends carefully without cutting too deep into the pods to keep them intact.
- Season the Okra: In a mixing bowl, lightly and evenly coat the dry okra with olive oil or avocado oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the okra. If desired, toss with cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Add any optional spices or herbs according to preference.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned okra in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even crisping. Cook in batches if needed.
- Cook to Crispy Perfection: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the okra for 10 to 12 minutes. Shake or toss the basket halfway through cooking to crisp all sides evenly. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking or dryness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked okra to a serving dish. Optionally, sprinkle with lemon zest, fresh herbs, or grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot to enjoy the best crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Dry okra thoroughly before cooking to avoid sogginess.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even crisping.
- Shake or toss the okra halfway through cooking for uniform crispness.
- Use fresh okra pods for best texture and flavor.
- Customize seasonings and add herbs or spices to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ pound okra
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: okra, air fryer okra, crispy okra, healthy snack, gluten free appetizer, easy side dish