Break free from the stereotype of air fryers as mere nugget machines. Discover a world of simple, tasty, and healthy air fryer recipes that cater to every dietary need. From plant-based bites to protein-packed mains, these recipes will make your air fryer your new best friend in the kitchen.

The air fryer has become a beloved staple in many homes, thanks to its ability to deliver crispy, flavourful dishes with minimal oil and fuss. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or searching for healthier spins on your favourite local foods, the air fryer opens up a world of quick, creative possibilities far beyond just reheating frozen snacks. To make the most of your air fryer, keep a few handy tricks and tools within reach: like a spray bottle for evenly misting oil (key for extra-crispy results), air-fryer liners or parchment sheets for easy clean-up, and remember not to overcrowd the basket so hot air can circulate freely. For best results, give your food a shake or flip halfway through cooking for that perfect, all-over golden crunch. With the right tips and equipment, air frying becomes even more convenient, and delicious, every time you use it.

Olive oil is a kitchen staple in many air fryer recipes because it helps foods cook evenly and develop a crisp, golden texture. A light coating of olive oil promotes proper heat distribution, preventing burning and drying out, especially for delicate vegetables. For best results, use olive oil sparingly, just enough to lightly coat your ingredients, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so hot air can circulate freely. While extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavour, consider using light or refined olive oil for cooking at higher temperatures due to their higher smoke points. Using a spray bottle or oil mister can help apply olive oil evenly for optimal crispiness and easy clean-up.

Olive oil is more than just a flavour enhancer; it helps to:

• Prevent burning: Without oil, the asparagus tips can cook too quickly and burn before the stalks are tender.
• Ensure even cooking: A light coating promotes consistent heat distribution, allowing each spear to cook evenly and achieve that coveted crispiness.
• Enhance texture and taste: Olive oil’s natural fats help create a slightly caramelised exterior that complements asparagus’s fresh, green flavour.

Vibrant veggies and protein-packed tofu

Olive oil is a kitchen staple in many air fryer dishes, helping to cook foods evenly by distributing heat and preventing burning. When air frying vegetables like asparagus, a drizzle ensures crisp texture, vibrant colour, and enhanced flavour. Use it sparingly but deliberately; too much oil can weigh dishes down, while too little may cause uneven cooking.

Air fryer asparagus

Quick, crunchy, and full of flavour, air-fried asparagus is a perfect side or snack. Toss fresh asparagus lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper: this step is crucial, as the olive oil helps the spears cook evenly and prevents burning by protecting the delicate tips from drying out too quickly. Spread the asparagus in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure hot air circulates freely, then air fry at 200°C for about 10 minutes. The result: tender stalks with irresistibly crisp tips, perfect for pairing with a bowl of brown rice or as a topping for local grain bowls. Shake or turn halfway through cooking to promote even crisping on all sides. After cooking, sprinkle with lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, or toasted almonds for an extra flavour boost.

Air fryer tofu

For a protein boost, cube firm tofu, marinate in a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil, and air fry at 200°C for 12-15 minutes. Shake halfway through for even crisping. The tofu comes out golden and chewy, perfect for tossing into salads, grain bowls, or even a hearty laksa-inspired soup.

Some practical tips for cooking air fryer tofu recipes:

• Break tofu by hand instead of cutting: This creates irregular, jagged edges that increase surface area, allowing marinades and seasonings to cling better and penetrate more effectively, boosting flavour and texture.
• Press tofu well before cooking: Removing excess water using a tofu press or by placing tofu between paper towels with weight on top for 15–30 minutes helps it crisp up better.
• Use a marinade or seasoning mix: Toss the tofu pieces in soy sauce or tamari, garlic and onion powders, smoked paprika, and a little sesame oil. Marinate for 15 minutes or more to maximise flavour absorption.
• Coat tofu in cornstarch: Dusting with cornstarch before air frying helps develop a light, crispy crust without needing much oil.
• Arrange tofu pieces spaced apart: Give pieces room in the air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation and even crisping. Cook at about 400°F for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Toss or shake halfway: Helps all sides get crispy and evenly cooked.
• Serve with sauces: Such as peanut sauce, spicy sriracha, or sweet chilli to add extra flavour.

Air-fried potatoes with rosemary

Chop Yukon Gold or red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, then soak them in cold water for at least 20–30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which contributes to a crispier texture. After soaking, gently pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel to remove as much moisture as possible, this is key for achieving golden, crispy outsides.

Toss the dried potato pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and freshly chopped rosemary. Spread them evenly in the air fryer basket without overcrowding, and air fry at 200°C (392°F) for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

The result: crispy outsides and tender, buttery insides—a healthier alternative to local fried potato snacks.

Soaking the chopped potatoes in cold water helps remove excess surface starch. This is key to preventing the potatoes from becoming mushy and sticking together during cooking. By rinsing away some starch, the potatoes develop a crispier, golden exterior while remaining tender inside. After soaking, it’s essential to pat the potatoes thoroughly dry to remove moisture, which allows the oil and seasonings to adhere better and promotes even browning. This technique is widely used by chefs to achieve perfectly crispy air-fried potatoes every time. 

Gluten-free: Naturally wholesome, always satisfying

Air-fried corn on the cob

Air-fried corn on the cob is a delicious and healthier twist on a local pasar malam favourite. To prepare, remove the husks and silk from the corn, then rinse and pat it dry. Lightly brush the shucked corn with olive oil, which helps it cook evenly and prevents the kernels from drying out or burning during air frying.

Season with salt and pepper or your preferred spices, such as chili powder for an extra kick. If the ears are too large to fit comfortably in your air fryer basket, you can cut them in half or quarters, but cooking whole ears is perfectly fine as long as they fit without overcrowding. Arrange the corn in a single layer with some space around each piece to allow hot air circulation. Air fry at 200°C for about 10 to 13 minutes, flipping or rotating halfway through to ensure even cooking and a slight char that enhances the natural sweetness of the kernels. This method keeps the corn juicy inside while delivering a beautifully roasted, slightly smoky flavour that’s perfect eaten on its own or with your favourite toppings.

Chilli-lime air-fried chickpeas

Drain and rinse canned chickpeas, and toss with olive oil, chilli powder, lime zest, and salt. Air fry at 200°C for 12-15 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes. These crunchy bites are high in fibre and protein, and great as a snack or salad topping.

Air-fried rice with teriyaki edamame & pineapple

High-protein & low-carb: Lean, mean, and filling

Air fryer chicken cutlet

We love our crispy chicken, and the air fryer delivers without the guilt. Coat chicken breast cutlets in wholemeal breadcrumbs and a light egg wash, then air fry at 200°C for 10-12 minutes per side. Each cutlet is golden, juicy, and high in protein, perfect for a healthier chicken rice or salad topping.

Air fryer cod

For a light and flaky main, season cod fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Air fry at 200°C for 10-12 minutes. Serve with a side of cucumber salad or couscous for a meal that’s both satisfying and heart-healthy.

Air-fried buffalo chicken egg rolls

Shred cooked chicken breast, mix with shredded cabbage and a splash of hot sauce, and wrap in rice paper or gluten-free wrappers. Air fry at 200°C for 10 minutes until crisp. These rolls are high in protein and make a great post-workout snack or party finger food.

Diabetic-friendly: Low on carbs, big on flavour 

Air fryer zucchini fries

Slice zucchini into sticks, coat lightly with olive oil and toss in wholemeal breadcrumbs or almond flour. Air fry at 200°C for 10-12 minutes. These fries are low in carbs and calories, yet satisfyingly crunchy. Ideal for dipping into Greek yoghurt or sambal. 

Air fryer carrots with thyme

Toss baby carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Air fry at 200°C for 20 minutes. The carrots caramelise beautifully, making them a sweet and fibre-rich side dish for any meal.

Air fryer kale chips

Tear kale leaves, toss with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, and air fry at 180°C for 5-7 minutes. These chips are crunchy, nutrient-dense, and a fantastic alternative to potato chips for those watching their blood sugar.

Healthy, local, and limitless

The air fryer is more than a shortcut to crispy snacks, it’s a versatile tool for preparing healthy, flavourful meals that suit every dietary need. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, high-protein, or diabetic-friendly, these recipes prove that eating well can be both simple and delicious. So, dust off your air fryer and start experimenting, your taste buds, and waistline, will thank you.