Using an air fryer to cook tomatoes can yield surprisingly delightful results! This method not only enhances the flavor of the tomatoes but also provides a quick and healthy way to prepare them. Here’s a simple guide on how to air fry tomatoes and why the outcome might just surprise you.

What You Need:

• Fresh tomatoes (cherry tomatoes work well or larger tomatoes cut into slices)

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, dried basil, or oregano

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

   • If using cherry tomatoes, you can leave them whole; if using larger tomatoes, slice them into even slices or wedges.

   • Pat the tomatoes dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps in achieving a better roast.

2. Seasoning:

   • Place the tomatoes in a bowl, drizzle with a small amount of olive oil, and toss to coat.

   • Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. This not only enhances their flavor but also helps in caramelizing during the air frying process.

3. Air Frying:

   • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.

   • Arrange the tomatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they’re not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.

   • Cook for about 10-15 minutes for cherry tomatoes or 15-20 minutes for tomato slices or wedges. The time may vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of your tomato pieces.

4. Serving:

   • Once the tomatoes are done, they should be nicely roasted with a slightly wrinkled appearance and concentrated flavor.

   • Serve them hot as a side dish, or use them to top bruschetta, stir into pasta, or add to salads.

Why the Result Will Surprise You:

• Intensity of Flavor: The high heat of the air fryer caramelizes the natural sugars in tomatoes, intensifying their flavor dramatically.

• Texture: Air frying gives the tomatoes a pleasing texture that’s slightly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

• Versatility: These tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, enhancing both the taste and presentation of your meals.

• Health Benefits: Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.

Air frying tomatoes is a simple, quick, and surprisingly effective way to transform this humble fruit (yes, botanically speaking, tomatoes are a fruit!) into something special. Give it a try, and you might find it becomes your new favorite method for cooking tomatoes.