This air-fried crispy paneer is a delightful vegetarian dish that combines the rich flavors of paneer with a light and refreshing green salad. The paneer is coated in spices and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft interior. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a quick meal or appetizer. Pairing the crispy paneer with a fresh salad adds a nutritious element to the dish.
Crispy Paneer with Fresh Green Salad Recipe
Crispy paneer cubes served with a fresh green salad of mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion on a rustic table.
This delightful dish features crispy paneer cubes paired with a fresh green salad, making it an ideal choice for a light meal or appetizer. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 2 people.
Ingredients
The simplicity of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a vibrant and satisfying plate.
- 200g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- Mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Lemon juice for dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook and Prep Times
| Time Type | Duration |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
Preparation Made Easy: Step-by-Step Instructions
Getting this flavorful and healthy meal on the table is remarkably quick, taking only 30 minutes. The air fryer is the key to creating guilt-free crunch without deep-frying, focusing on simplicity and taste.
Preparation of the Crispy Paneer
To create the crispy paneer, you need a perfect blend of spices and minimal oil. This ensures the best texture—soft and creamy on the inside, with a golden, seasoned crust on the outside.
- Cut and Season: Start by cutting the paneer block into even cubes. In a medium bowl, combine the paneer with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, and salt. Gently toss the cubes until they are evenly coated in the spice mixture. A small amount of oil is crucial as it helps the spices adhere and promotes browning in the air fryer.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 200∘C (400∘F). Place the seasoned paneer cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Overcrowding will steam them instead of crisping them, so work in batches if necessary. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides develop that desirable golden, crispy crust.
Creating the Fresh Green Salad
The salad provides a necessary, cooling contrast to the richness of the paneer and the warmth of the spices.
- Combine Greens: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula), the sliced cucumber, diced tomato, and the thinly sliced red onion.
- Dress Simply: Drizzle the vegetables with a generous amount of fresh lemon juice, which acts as a light, tangy dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients without bruising the delicate greens.
- Serve: Plate the vibrant salad and arrange the warm, crispy paneer cubes alongside it immediately for the best contrast in temperature and texture.
Serving Suggestions
When plating, arrange the crispy paneer cubes alongside the vibrant salad for an inviting presentation. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side, depending on your preference. Pair it with a refreshing drink to complete the experience. The rustic wooden table background adds warmth and charm to the meal.
Nutritional Benefits for Crispy Paneer
This meal is designed to satisfy both your cravings and your nutritional needs, with a focus on high protein and fresh fiber.
Protein and Dairy Goodness
The paneer is the star of this dish, offering a substantial 18g of protein per serving. As a fresh cheese, paneer is a complete vegetarian protein source, vital for muscle maintenance and promoting long-lasting satiety. Unlike traditional frying methods, air frying drastically reduces the fat absorption, making the paneer a much lighter and healthier option without compromising its delicious texture.
Fiber-Rich, Low-Carb Contrast
The accompanying green salad is a nutritional powerhouse of its own. It provides essential vitamins (especially Vitamin C and Vitamin K), minerals, and a high volume of dietary fiber. This fiber content aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar. With only 15g of carbohydrates for the entire meal, this dish is an excellent choice for those managing carb intake or seeking a lighter dinner.
Guilt-Free Calorie Count on Crispy Paneer
At approximately 350 calories per serving, this crispy paneer and salad offers a perfect macronutrient balance:
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 20g (primarily from the paneer and healthy olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 15g
Final Thoughts on Crispy Paneer
The crispy paneer with green salad is a delightful dish that showcases the versatility of paneer in vegetarian cooking. Its simplicity and flavor make it a favorite among many. Whether you are looking for a quick meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to deliver on taste and presentation. Enjoy the crispy texture of the paneer alongside the freshness of the salad for a satisfying dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why should I air fry the paneer instead of frying it?
A: Air frying the paneer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a much healthier choice while still achieving a perfectly crispy exterior. It delivers the texture you want with far less saturated fat and fewer calories than traditional deep-frying.
Q: Can I bake the paneer instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 200∘C (400∘F). Place the seasoned paneer cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Q: How can I make the paneer extra crispy?
A: For ultra-crispy paneer, you can lightly coat the marinated cubes with a teaspoon of cornstarch or rice flour before air frying. This creates a thin, crunchy shell that locks in the moisture and ensures maximum crispness.
Q: Can I use different spices for the marinade?
A: Absolutely. Paneer is very versatile. You can swap the spices for a Tandoori mix, Chaat Masala for a tangy flavor, or Italian herbs for a fusion dish. The key is ensuring the spices are dry and cling to the paneer with the help of the olive oil.
Q: How long does the crispy paneer stay fresh?
A: For the best texture, the crispy paneer should be eaten immediately. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they will lose their crispiness. You can attempt to reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain some crunch.
References
The success of this dish is based on widely recognized nutritional and cooking techniques, emphasizing a healthier way to prepare traditionally rich ingredients.
- Healthline – Paneer vs. Tofu: What’s the Difference?
- WebMD – Do Air Fryers Have Health Benefits?
- USDA – Benefits of Compound in Turmeric Spice Studied
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