Escalivada is a traditional Catalan dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of peppers, eggplant, onion, and tomato. The recipe here adapts it for an air fryer, delivering a crisp exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. It’s an appealing choice for vegetarians and anyone seeking a satisfying vegetable-forward meal with less oil than classic roasting methods.
This version of escalivada prioritizes simple, fresh ingredients. The core flavors come from ripe vegetables treated with a light touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper, letting each ingredient shine. Prepared in the air fryer, the vegetables gain a delicate crunch while preserving their bright textures and aromas. The result is a nutritious, versatile dish that can serve as a side or a main course.
Escalivada in its classic form is celebrated for its colorful presentation and wholesome profile. The air fryer method offers a quick, convenient alternative that maintains the dish’s integrity while reducing cooking time and oil usage. The result is a healthy, delicious plate that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it suitable for meals, picnics, or light suppers.
air fryer roasted
To assemble this roasted vegetable plate, gather the following components:
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 eggplants
- 1 large onion
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- olive oil spray
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
This is how you can prepare escalivada in the air fryer.
- Preheat the air fryer to 190 degrees Celsius (375 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Wash and dry the peppers, eggplants and tomatoes. Peel the onion and slice it into thick rings or chunks.
- Place the vegetables in the fryer basket and spray with olive oil. Ensure they are lightly coated for an even finish.
- Set the basket in the air fryer and cook for about 15 minutes, monitoring for tenderness and color stop.
- After 15 minutes, open the unit and flip the vegetables so they cook evenly on all sides.
- Lightly spray with a touch more olive oil and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the exterior is golden and crisp while the interiors stay soft.
- Once cooked, transfer the vegetables to a cutting board to rest briefly.
- Peel and seed the peppers, then cut them into long strips. Slice the eggplants and chop the onion into thin pieces.
- Arrange the vegetables on a serving plate and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot or cold as a side dish or a main course. Escalivada pairs beautifully with crusty bread or as a colorful component in a larger meal.
The traditional escalivada recipe: a colorful, healthy meal
This air fryer adaptation keeps the dish approachable and flavorful while offering a lighter, quicker option than the classic oven method. It remains easy to prepare, vibrant, and nourishing, with bright vegetable flavors that stand on their own or complement other dishes.
This rendition of escalivada emphasizes accessible preparation, balanced textures, and a fresh, natural taste. The air fryer approach reduces oil use without sacrificing the dish’s satisfying crispness, making it an appealing choice for everyday meals and entertaining alike. Its flexibility means it can be served as a standalone plate or used as a colorful accompaniment to proteins, grains, or bread.