Escalivada is a classic Catalan dish built on peppers, eggplant, onion, and tomato. The version here brings a modern update for home cooks who want crisp vegetables with deep, smoky flavors, achieved quickly in a hot air fryer. The result is a dish that tastes rich and satisfying whether served as a side or a light main.
In this guide, the focus is on a simple, practical method to prepare escalivada in an air fryer. The approach prioritizes texture and natural sweetness, letting the vegetables shine without heavy sauces or complicated steps. The recipe is designed for vegetable lovers and for anyone looking to add healthy variety to meals with accessible kitchen equipment.
Escalivada is described here as a colorful, nourishing option that supports balanced eating. The air fryer technique offers a crisp exterior while keeping the interiors tender, a contrast that elevates the dish beyond a basic roasted vegetable plate. This method is especially appealing for home cooks in Canada and the United States who want reliable results with common ingredients.
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
how to prepare escalivada in the air fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 190 degrees.
- Wash and dry the peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes. Peel the onion and cut it into thick slices.
- Place the vegetables in the fryer basket and spray them with olive oil. Make sure every piece is well coated with oil.
- Insert the basket and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin to soften and color.
- After 15 minutes, remove the basket and flip the vegetables so they cook evenly on all sides.
- Spray the vegetables with a little more olive oil and return the tray. Cook for another 10 to 15 minutes until the vegetables are golden brown and crisp on the outside while remaining tender inside.
- When cooking is complete, transfer the vegetables to a cutting board and let them cool briefly.
- Remove the skins and seeds from the peppers, then cut them into long strips. Slice the eggplants and cut the onion into thin strips.
- Arrange the vegetables on a plate and season with salt and pepper to taste. The dish can be enjoyed hot or cold as a side or main course. Escalivada pairs beautifully with toasted bread and a drizzle of olive oil, or it can be served alongside other Catalan-inspired dishes.
This method keeps the process straightforward while delivering a vibrant plate that appeals to both eye and palate. The air fryer version is a practical alternative to traditional oven roasting, offering a quicker route to crisp edges and rich flavors without extra fat.
The traditional escalivada recipe: a colorful, healthy meal
The escalivada prepared with an air fryer remains a healthful option that emphasizes vegetables in their natural sweetness. It is easy to prepare, and the flavors come alive through careful handling and brief, high-heat cooking. This approach keeps the dish light while preserving the character that makes escalivada a beloved staple of Catalan cuisine.
Nutrition and flavor converge in this adaptation. The vegetables retain textures and colors that make the plate visually appealing, while the method minimizes added fats and maximizes the vegetables’ inherent goodness. For Canadian and American kitchens, the recipe provides a flexible, modern way to enjoy a traditional favourite with everyday equipment.
Readers can use escalivada as a vibrant side dish to complement grilled proteins or as a stand-alone vegetarian main. The air fryer version offers a reliable result, with crisp edges and tender centers, while keeping the preparation approachable for cooks at any skill level. Markers of this method are straightforward steps, practical timing, and a clean, flavorful finish that invites repeat preparation and experimentation with seasonal produce. User experiences and taste outcomes have been supported by culinary guidance from home cooks and food writing sources that emphasize accessible, healthy cooking practices. Citation notes may be found in culinary resources attributed to traditional Catalan cuisine and modern air fryer techniques.