Save Golden, crunchy onion rings cooked to perfection in the air fryer, served with a creamy homemade garlic aioli dip. This recipe offers a healthier take on a classic appetizer, delivering all the satisfaction of traditional frying with significantly less oil. Perfect for sharing with friends or family, these rings are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Save Whether you are hosting a game night or just looking for a savory snack, these air-fried onion rings strike the ideal balance between a tender interior and a robustly crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
- Onion Rings:
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Olive oil spray
- Garlic Aioli Dip:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2
- Separate onion slices into rings and set aside.
- Step 3
- Set up three bowls: Bowl 1 with mixed flour, salt, and pepper; Bowl 2 with whisked eggs and buttermilk; Bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika.
- Step 4
- Dredge each onion ring in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press to adhere the coating.
- Step 5
- Arrange coated onion rings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Step 6
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary.
- Step 7
- Meanwhile, prepare the aioli: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 8
- Serve the hot crispy onion rings immediately with garlic aioli dip on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure the onion rings are not overcrowded in the basket. Working in batches allows the hot air to circulate properly around each ring, resulting in a more uniform crunch.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To customize the flavor profile, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat. For a lighter dip, try substituting Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise in the garlic aioli.
Serviervorschläge
These rings are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer to maintain their maximum crunch. Serve them alongside the chilled garlic aioli and perhaps a few lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Save Enjoy this simple yet delicious vegetarian appetizer that brings classic comfort food flavor to your table with a modern, air-fried twist.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I get the onion rings extra crispy?
Ensure the rings are well-coated with the three-step dredging process: flour, egg-buttermilk, and panko mixed with Parmesan and paprika. Lightly spray with olive oil before air frying to promote crispiness.
- → Can I prepare the garlic aioli in advance?
Yes, the aioli can be mixed ahead and refrigerated for a few hours to allow flavors to meld, but best served fresh for maximum brightness.
- → What is the best way to slice onions for even cooking?
Slice large yellow onions into uniform 1/2-inch thick rings to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout.
- → Is there a substitute for buttermilk in the coating?
You can use milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar as a buttermilk substitute to maintain tenderness in the coating.
- → Can the breadcrumb mixture be customized for more flavor?
Adding spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumbs enhances the flavor and adds a subtle kick.