Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

I love how simple yet flavorful these Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes are. They’re perfectly caramelized on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with that rich, sweet tomato flavor that roasting brings out so beautifully. With just a few herbs and a touch of olive oil, they make the perfect side, topping, or base for so many dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it’s fast, healthy, and incredibly versatile. The air fryer gives the tomatoes that oven-roasted flavor in a fraction of the time. The combination of garlic powder, basil, and oregano enhances their natural sweetness, and the slight crisp around the edges is just irresistible. I use them on toast, pasta, or as a flavorful salad addition — they fit anywhere.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
▢3 roma tomatoes about 100 grams each
▢¼ teaspoon garlic powder
▢¼ teaspoon dried basil
▢¼ teaspoon dried whole oregano
▢kosher salt to taste
▢ground black pepper to taste
▢extra virgin olive oil for brushing or spraying

Directions

1. I start by preheating my air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes while I prepare the tomatoes.
2. I slice the Roma tomatoes in half lengthwise and lightly brush or spray them with extra virgin olive oil.
3. I sprinkle the garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over the cut sides.
4. I place the tomatoes cut-side up in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping so they roast evenly.
5. I air fry them for 10–12 minutes, checking at the 10-minute mark. They should be slightly shriveled, caramelized on top, and juicy in the center.
6. Once they’re done, I let them cool slightly before serving or using them in recipes — they’re full of concentrated tomato flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people as a side or topping.
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 10–12 minutes
Total time: roughly 15–17 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese during the last minute of air frying for a savory twist.
• For extra depth, I drizzle a few drops of balsamic glaze before serving.
• I swap basil for thyme or rosemary if I want a different herbal note.
• To make them spicy, I dust the tomatoes with crushed red pepper flakes before roasting.
• I’ve also used cherry or grape tomatoes with the same method — they roast beautifully and become sweet little bursts of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes until warmed through. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads, sandwiches, or tossed with pasta. Freezing isn’t ideal because it changes their texture, but refrigerated leftovers stay flavorful and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes — I’ve used plum, grape, or cherry tomatoes. Just adjust the cook time slightly, reducing it by a few minutes for smaller varieties.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes first?

No, I keep the skins on. They help the tomatoes hold their shape during roasting and add texture.

Can I roast these without oil?

Yes — but a light brushing of olive oil helps with caramelization and adds great flavor. If skipping oil, watch closely so they don’t dry out.

How do I make them extra crispy?

I increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an extra minute or two. They’ll get more caramelized and slightly crisp on the edges.

Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely. I sprinkle chopped fresh basil, oregano, or thyme over the tomatoes after they come out of the air fryer to keep the herbs vibrant and aromatic.

What should I serve these with?

I love them alongside grilled chicken or fish, or layered on toasted bread with ricotta or goat cheese. They’re also fantastic tossed into pasta or grain bowls.

Can I make them in the oven instead?

Yes — I roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until caramelized. The air fryer just speeds things up.

Why use Roma tomatoes specifically?

Romas are meaty and low in moisture, which makes them perfect for roasting — they hold their shape and develop a concentrated flavor.

How do I prevent them from sticking to the air fryer basket?

I either brush a little oil on the basket or use parchment paper made for air fryers to keep them from sticking.

Can I store them for later use in sauces?

Yes — I refrigerate them and later blend them into pasta sauce or soup. The roasted flavor adds great depth to any dish.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes are one of my favorite quick side dishes. They’re simple to make, full of deep, savory-sweet flavor, and endlessly versatile. I love using them to elevate everything from breakfasts to dinners — proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable flavors.

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