The image shows quartered tomatoes being placed into an air fryer basket, ready to be roasted. Air frying tomatoes is a fantastic way to bring out their natural sweetness while adding a rich, roasted flavor. This method is quick, easy, and perfect for adding depth to a variety of dishes such as pasta, salads, or as a side dish on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Using the air fryer significantly reduces the time it takes to roast tomatoes compared to a conventional oven.
- Concentrated Flavor: Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a subtle smokiness.
- Versatile: These roasted tomatoes can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for bruschetta.
Ingredients:
For 4 servings of roasted tomatoes, you’ll need:
- 4 large tomatoes, quartered (as seen in the image)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder or fresh minced garlic (optional)
- 1 tsp dried herbs (like basil, oregano, or thyme)
- Balsamic glaze or fresh basil (optional for garnish)Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by quartering your tomatoes, removing any stems. Place them in a bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs to coat them evenly.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for about 3 minutes.
3. Place the Tomatoes in the Air Fryer
Carefully arrange the seasoned tomatoes in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, as shown in the image. Make sure not to overcrowd them, so the heat circulates evenly and the tomatoes roast properly.
4. Air Fry the Tomatoes
Air fry the tomatoes for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly. The tomatoes should be slightly charred and softened by the end.
5. Serve
Once the tomatoes are roasted to your liking, remove them from the air fryer. You can serve them as is, or drizzle with a little balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil for extra flavor.
Cook’s Notes:
- Tomato Variety: This recipe works well with all types of tomatoes. For smaller varieties like cherry or grape tomatoes, reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
- Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives the tomatoes a bit of heat, while a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a cheesy, umami flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Roasted tomatoes pair beautifully with pasta, salads, or as a topping for pizzas and sandwiches. You can also blend them to make a quick roasted tomato sauce.
FAQ:
Q: Can I store roasted tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can store any leftover roasted tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back their roasted texture.
Q: Can I freeze roasted tomatoes?
A: Roasted tomatoes freeze well. Let them cool completely, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and store for up to 3 months. They can be used in sauces, soups, or stews straight from the freezer.
Q: What other vegetables can I roast with tomatoes in the air fryer?
A: Vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and onions roast well alongside tomatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Roasted Tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Whether you’re making pasta, topping a pizza, or just looking for a healthy side dish, roasted tomatoes bring a burst of flavor that’s hard to beat. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!