Air Fryer Italian Spiced Vegetable Stack: Crustless & Crispy
Looking for a lighter twist on a classic Italian vegetable pie? This air-fried version ditches the pastry crust but keeps all the delicious flavors and textures. It's a perfect vegetarian main course or side dish, packed with Italian-inspired veggies and spices.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 zucchini chopped
- 1 yellow squash chopped
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, and saute until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Vegetable Stack:
- Lightly grease your air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Divide the vegetable mixture evenly into the air fryer basket, creating a compact and slightly mounded layer.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- (Optional) Top with crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Air Fry the Vegetable Stack:
- Air fry for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the cheeses are melted and golden brown.
- Check halfway through and stir the vegetables gently, if needed.
- Serve:
- Let the vegetable stack cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot on its own or with a side salad and crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Tips:
You can add other vegetables to the mix, such as mushrooms, eggplant, or spinach.
For a vegan option, use vegan cheese substitutes and omit the feta.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm them through.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own flavour profiles.
Kicker:
For a smoky flavour, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
For a touch of sweetness, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
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