You Won’t Believe These Air Fryer Recipes Are Vegetarian AND High Protein

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Who says vegetarian meals can’t pack a protein punch? These air fryer recipes are meatless and eggless and so easy to make. They are loaded with plant-based or dairy protein that keeps you full and satisfied. You will love making these high-protein vegetarian recipes on rotation.

Air Fryer Falafel

Falafel balls in a bowl — Image Credit: Rachna cooks

These crispy falafel or chickpea balls are soft inside and full of flavor. These falafel are made from protein-rich chickpeas and herbs and crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, no deep frying needed.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Falafel

Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Fries

Tofu fries in air fryer basket — Image Credit: Rachna cooks

Tofu becomes golden and lightly crunchy in the air fryer with just a bit of oil and seasoning. It’s the perfect blank canvas for sauces, wraps or bowls.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Crispy Tofu

Air Fryer Moong Dal Pakoda

Light, crispy fritters are made from soaked moong dal and spices. They are protein-packed, satisfying and a great tea-time or anytime snack.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Moong Dal Pakoda

Air Fryer Paneer Tikka

Paneer tikka skewers — Image Credit: Rachna cooks

Chunks of paneer marinated in yogurt and spices, then air-fried to smoky perfection. It’s a crowd-favorite that delivers on both protein and flavor.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Paneer Tikka

Air Fryer Sprouted Whole Moong Pakoda

These sprouted green gram fritters are crispy, savory, and loaded with protein. Serve with chutney or just enjoy them straight from the basket.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Whole Moong Pakoda

Air Fryer Tempeh

Tempeh crisps up wonderfully in the air fryer. Toss it with your favorite marinade. I like soy, garlic or even BBQ for a flavorful, plant-based protein boost.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Tempeh

Kung Pao Tofu

Spicy, saucy, and packed with protein. Tofu gets crispy in the air fryer, then tossed with peanuts, bell peppers, and a bold kung pao sauce.

Get the recipe: Kung Pao Tofu

Air Fryer Chickpeas

Close up of air fried chickpeas — Image Credit: Rachna cooks

Crispy roasted chickpeas are crunchy, satisfying, and seriously snackable. Toss them with spices like paprika or garlic for a protein-rich munchie.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Chickpeas

Air Fryer Butter Beans

Air fried butterbeans in a bowl — Image Credit: Rachna cooks

Big, creamy butter beans turn crispy and golden in the air fryer. Seasoned simply, they make a great high-protein topping or snack.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Butter Beans

Air Fryer Paneer Fingers

Paneer fingers in a bowl — Image Credit: Rachna cooks

Strips of paneer coated in spices and breadcrumbs are air-fried until crispy. Think of them as the vegetarian answer to mozzarella sticks. They are so creamy inside.

Get the recipe: Air Fryer Paneer Fingers

Salt and Pepper Tofu

Tofu sliced into squares and crisped in the air fryer then tossed with basic salt and pepper is a delicious protein side to a meal. You can have it with a dipping sauce as an appetizer too.

Get the recipe: Salt and Pepper Tofu