Air Fryer Fried Olives Recipe

If you’ve never tried Air Fryer Fried Olives, get ready for your new favorite party snack! Each olive gets the crispiest, most golden coating while staying deliciously juicy inside—and thanks to the magic of the air fryer, you’ll get all the crunch with way less oil and fuss than classic frying. One pop and you’ll wonder where these have been all your life!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few simple (but super important) ingredients to achieve perfect Air Fryer Fried Olives. Each one plays a key role in creating that crunchy shell and keeping the olives juicy and flavorful inside—don’t skip the seasoning!

• Green olives (6 ounces): Go for pimento-stuffed or get creative with garlic or feta-stuffed olives. Just make sure they’re drained and dry for the best crunch.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): The essential first layer so the breading sticks beautifully to each olive.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a sweet-savory depth to the flour coating.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle warmth and classic flavor to every bite.
• Large eggs (2): Whisked to help the crumb mixture cling securely.
• Panko bread crumbs (1 cup): For that signature airy, shattering crispness.
• Italian style bread crumbs (1 cup): Adds extra flavor and texture, plus those herby Italian vibes.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the other savory notes!

Variations

The beauty of Air Fryer Fried Olives is just how easy they are to tweak—so don’t be shy about playing with mix-ins, coatings, or even the olive selection itself. There’s no limit to the creative spins you can put on this crispy little snack!

• Cheese-stuffed olives: Swap in feta, blue cheese, or even pepper jack stuffed olives for an extra burst of creamy goodness inside.
• Spicy breadcrumb coating: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika into the bread crumbs for a little heat and color.
• Gluten-free option: Use your go-to gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version—no one will know the difference!
• Vegan version: Use aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) in place of egg, and make sure your bread crumbs are vegan-certified.

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Olives

Step 1: Prepare the Olives

Start by draining your olives thoroughly, then gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Extra moisture is the enemy of crispiness here—so don’t rush this step! If you’re using stuffed olives, make sure none of the filling is leaking out.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Arrange three shallow dishes or bowls. In one, combine the flour, onion powder, and garlic powder. In the second, crack the eggs and whisk until smooth. In the third, mix together the Panko, Italian bread crumbs, and salt. This setup will make your breading process smooth and organized.

Step 3: Bread the Olives

One at a time, dip each olive first into the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully coated and shaking off excess. Next, roll it in the whisked egg, then finish by thoroughly covering it in the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press to help the coating stick—you want every inch crisped up!

Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Spritz your air fryer basket with olive oil spray and nestle the breaded olives in a single, even layer (don’t crowd them). Give the tops a good spray of oil, too. Air fry at 400°F for 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway so they cook and brown evenly. The result? Air Fryer Fried Olives with irresistible golden crunch!

How to Serve Air Fryer Fried Olives

Garnishes

Brighten your dish with a scatter of chopped fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color. A final dusting of extra Parmesan or a quick pinch of flaky sea salt is always a hit—especially if you’re serving with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or ranch.

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Fried Olives pair perfectly with other Mediterranean-inspired sides: think hummus, baba ganoush, or crisp veggie sticks. For a heartier spread, serve alongside a cheese board with cured meats, or nestle them next to a bright, tangy salad for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Thread fried olives onto toothpicks for the ultimate cocktail skewer, or pile them high in a rustic bowl as a centerpiece for your party platter. For an elegant touch, serve atop a bed of arugula with lemon wedges, or line up on a slate board for wine night nibbles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extras, let your fried olives cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll lose some crispness, but the flavor remains fantastic!

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled Air Fryer Fried Olives in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Simply reheat from frozen for a nearly-instant appetizer.

Reheating

Reheat your olives in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving—they’ll get soft and lose their crunch. A quick blast in the oven works well, too.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give these Air Fryer Fried Olives a try—there’s something about their irresistible crunch and savory bite that turns any moment into a celebration. Whether you’re sharing with friends or just treating yourself, this easy snack is pure joy. Let me know how yours turn out!

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