Air Fryer Fried Olives Recipe

If you’re a fan of snacking and love a bold, savory surprise, Air Fryer Fried Olives will absolutely win your heart (and your taste buds!). Crispy on the outside, juicy and briny in the middle, these little bites are delightfully addictive and deserve a starring role at your next gathering—or as your personal evening treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about these Air Fryer Fried Olives is how each simple ingredient pulls its weight—delivering big flavor and irresistible crunch. Every component is chosen for the perfect bite and a beautiful golden finish!

• Green olives (6 ounces): Go classic with pimento-stuffed or get adventurous with garlic or feta-stuffed for extra punch.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Essential for giving that puffy, golden base coat so the breading sticks like a dream.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds mellow, savory undertones that complement the olives’ tanginess.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Builds out the flavor and gives each bite a wink of warmth.
• Large eggs (2): Whisked smooth, these help the breadcrumbs cling for maximum crunch.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): The secret imparts that signature airy, shattering crunch.
• Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (1 cup): Loads up the coating with little bursts of herbiness and subtle spice.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to enhance each bite, making flavors pop.

Variations

Want to tailor your Air Fryer Fried Olives to match your mood or pantry? You’re absolutely in luck! This recipe can be reimagined in so many fun and tasty ways—switch up the olives, the breading, or even go gluten-free or vegan to fit your needs.

• Cheese-Stuffed Olives: Swap in blue cheese, goat cheese, or even pepper jack stuffed olives for gooey, melty centers.
• Gluten-Free Crunch: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs—crispy perfection without the gluten.
• Vegan Friendly: Replace the eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and ensure your breadcrumbs are vegan.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce right into the egg mixture for olives with attitude.

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Olives

Step 1: Prep the Olives

Start by draining your olives and patting them completely dry with a paper towel. This little bit of prep helps the flour and breading cling better, and trust me—it’s the secret to the crispiest Air Fryer Fried Olives you’ve ever tasted.

Step 2: Ready the Breading Stations

Set up a trio of shallow dishes: one for flour mixed with garlic and onion powders, the second with your whisked eggs, and the third with panko, seasoned breadcrumbs, and salt. This assembly line is the key for quick and seamless olive-coating action!

Step 3: Dredge and Coat Each Olive

Working one by one, dip each olive first into flour (tap off excess), then dunk in the egg until coated, and finally, roll in the breadcrumb mixture. For the ultra-adventurous, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs for an even thicker, crunchier shell!

Step 4: Arrange and Air Fry

Lightly spritz your air fryer basket with oil spray, then lay out the coated olives in an even, single layer—giving them plenty of room to crisp. Generously mist the olives with oil spray before air frying at 400°F for 6 minutes, shaking the basket gently halfway through for even browning all over.

Step 5: Serve and Devour!

Once your Air Fryer Fried Olives are golden and irresistibly crisp, let them cool slightly—then serve with your favorite dips and watch them disappear in a flash!

How to Serve Air Fryer Fried Olives

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds both color and freshness, while a dusting of grated Parmesan takes your Air Fryer Fried Olives right over the top. For a zesty finish, a twist of lemon zest just before serving is bright and beautiful.

Side Dishes

Pair these crispy bites with a cool garlic aioli, homemade ranch dressing, or a tangy marinara dip. They’re also fabulous alongside an antipasto platter, a fresh green salad, or with charcuterie for extra Mediterranean flair.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Air Fryer Fried Olives stacked on cocktail picks for easy nibbling, or arrange them in small bowls nestled with toothpicks for grab-and-go snacking. For next-level presentation at a party, offer dipping sauces in mini ramekins and shower everything with herbs and cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Should you have any leftovers (doubtful, but it happens!), store Air Fryer Fried Olives in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay crunchy for a day or two, though they’re definitely best enjoyed fresh and hot.

Freezing

You can freeze breaded, uncooked olives on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready, pop them straight into the air fryer—no need to thaw—just adjust cook time by a minute or two. Fried leftovers aren’t quite as brilliant after freezing, so freeze before cooking for best results.

Reheating

For that just-fried crunch, pop chilled olives back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. Skip the microwave; it softens the coating—stick with the air fryer for best results!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer or simply the ultimate savory snack, these Air Fryer Fried Olives deserve a special spot on your go-to recipe list. Gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and get ready to wow your friends—or just treat yourself—to a platter of irresistible, golden-crunchy bites. Happy snacking!

Print