18 Crunchy Air Fryer Sides You Can Make Fast

These veggie-forward and plant-based recipes show how much flavor and crunch you can get from the air fryer without needing meat or heavy prep. From crispy tofu and eggplant to fries made from okra, sweet potatoes, and carrots, these dishes are packed with texture and creativity. Whether you’re looking for snacks, sides, or meat-free mains, this list offers variety and big taste with minimal effort. The air fryer keeps everything crisp on the outside and tender inside.

Air Fryer Banana Chips

Thin banana slices are lightly seasoned and air fried until crisp and golden. They’re a sweet snack that’s simple to make. You can use ripe or slightly underripe bananas depending on your texture preference. Great for lunch boxes or trail mix.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Banana Chips

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Carrot sticks are tossed in seasoning and air fried until the edges turn crispy. They’re sweet, savory, and great for dipping. The aioli adds a creamy kick. A fun twist on traditional fries.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Air Fryer Eggplant

Sliced eggplant cooks up with a crisp outside and soft interior in the air fryer. A little oil and seasoning bring out the flavor. Great as a side or added to pasta dishes. Serve with marinara or tahini sauce.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

These small, thin potatoes roast up with golden, crispy skins and creamy centers. Slice them in half and season well before air frying. They’re ideal for breakfast or dinner sides. Toss with herbs or garlic butter after cooking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fingerling Potatoes

Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

No need to thaw—just toss frozen broccoli with oil and seasoning and cook until browned and crisp at the edges. It’s a quick, easy side that goes with everything. Finish with lemon juice or grated cheese. A smart way to use freezer staples.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Air Fryer Halloumi

This firm cheese turns golden and crisp on the outside while staying soft inside. Slice it thick so it doesn’t melt through. Serve as a snack, in wraps, or with salad. A drizzle of honey or hot sauce works well on top.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Halloumi

Air Fryer Okra Fries

Okra is sliced thin and tossed in a seasoned coating before being air fried until crunchy. They come out with minimal slime and lots of flavor. Serve hot with dipping sauce. Great for snacking or as a side.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Okra Fries

Air Fryer Strawberries

Strawberries shrink slightly and intensify in sweetness when cooked in the air fryer. They can be used as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or desserts. A sprinkle of cinnamon or sugar adds extra flavor. Let them cool before serving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Strawberries

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Cut into thick wedges, these sweet potatoes cook up crisp on the edges and soft in the middle. Toss with paprika or cinnamon depending on your mood. Serve with spicy mayo or ketchup. A solid side for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Tofu cubes are breaded and air fried until crispy, then served with a homemade vegan ranch. The coating stays crunchy while the inside is soft. They’re great for dipping or adding to salads and bowls. A satisfying plant-based snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Air Fryer Tostones (Plantains)

Green plantains are sliced, smashed, and air fried in two stages to get crispy on the outside and soft inside. Sprinkle with salt and dip in garlic sauce. These are great as a snack or side dish. Flip halfway for even browning.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tostones (Plantains)

Air Fryer Zucchini

Zucchini rounds or sticks crisp up nicely with a light coating. They make a quick side dish or snack. Sprinkle with parmesan or herbs before serving. Watch the cook time to avoid sogginess.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini

Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

This version uses breading for an extra-crunchy finish on the outside. The inside stays soft and creamy. Perfect for stacking in sandwiches or dipping in marinara. Great as a meatless main or hearty side.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Eggplant

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Sliced onions are coated in a dairy-free batter and cooked until golden. They’re crispy, savory, and perfect for dipping. Use sweet onions for a milder taste. Best eaten hot and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Squash

Sliced squash cooks fast in the air fryer and comes out lightly caramelized. It’s a simple side that works with many meals. Try seasoning with garlic or Italian herbs. Serve warm or room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Squash

Easy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets Recipe (Vegan Friendly)

These nuggets use firm tofu and a simple coating to get crisp without oil. Great for plant-based eaters or anyone looking for a snack with bite. Add seasoning to match your mood. Serve with a dipping sauce or wrap in a pita.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets Recipe (Vegan Friendly)

Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)

These potatoes are naturally sweet and cook up with a soft, almost creamy interior. The skin gets slightly crisp in the air fryer. A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness. Great as a side or simple snack.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Sweet Potato Air Fryer (Easy and Sweet!)

Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

These potatoes are boiled, smashed, and air fried until golden and crisp. The grill function adds a hint of char. Top with herbs, cheese, or sour cream. A crowd-pleasing side dish with crunch.
Get the Recipe: Ninja Woodfire Grill Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes

Sweet Potato Fries

Thin-cut sweet potatoes turn golden and crisp in the air fryer with just a little oil. Season with salt, cinnamon, or spice blends. Great with dipping sauces or as a burger side. Cook in a single layer for best results.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries