Roasting Cherry Tomatoes: Air Fryer Magic

Cherry tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to salads, pasta meals, sauces, soups, and even dips. Roasting cherry tomatoes in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enhance their flavour and make them even more delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create tender, juicy, and intensely flavoured tomatoes that can be used in a multitude of recipes.

How long to roast cherry tomatoes in an air fryer

Roasting cherry tomatoes in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a versatile dish that can be used as a side, appetizer, or to accompany a variety of recipes. The cooking time for cherry tomatoes in an air fryer can vary depending on the specific air fryer model, the desired level of doneness, and personal preference. Here is a step-by-step guide on how long to roast cherry tomatoes in an air fryer:

Preparation:

First, gather your ingredients: cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and your choice of seasonings. You can use extra virgin olive oil and season with sea salt, Italian seasoning, rosemary, basil, or garlic, depending on your preference. If you want to add more flavor to your tomatoes, you can also use fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary.

Wash and cut the tomatoes into halves. If you are using larger varieties like Roma tomatoes, cut them into quarters.

Air Frying:

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 204 degrees Celsius. Place the tomatoes in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. For extra juicy tomatoes, use a tray or basket without holes, or line the bottom of the basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Set the air fryer timer for 5 to 10 minutes. The cooking time will depend on your desired level of doneness and the specific model of your air fryer. Begin checking the tomatoes around the 7-minute mark to avoid overcooking.

Serving:

Once the tomatoes have reached your desired level of doneness, remove them from the air fryer. You can serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They can also be added to various recipes like pasta, salads, soups, dips, or sandwiches.

Roasted cherry tomatoes are a simple and tasty way to add flavor to your meals, and with such a short cooking time, they're an excellent option for a quick and healthy dish.

What to serve roasted cherry tomatoes with

Roasted cherry tomatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas on what to serve them with:

Appetizers and Snacks

Roasted cherry tomatoes can be served as a snack on their own or as part of an appetizer. Try them on a toothpick with bocconcini (small fresh mozzarella balls) or spread on crusty bread or toast with ricotta or goat cheese. For a fancier option, top grilled chicken with roasted tomatoes and fresh mozzarella and bake until the cheese melts. You can also blend them into dips, such as hummus, or make a roasted tomato cheese dip.

Salads

Toss roasted cherry tomatoes into any salad to make it extra special. They pair well with greens like lettuce, avocado, and mango, as well as other vegetables like corn, grilled veggies, and zucchini. For a simple yet delicious option, toss them with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Pasta and Rice

Roasted cherry tomatoes are a great addition to pasta dishes, especially when paired with ingredients like garlic, olive oil, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. They can be blended into a smooth pasta sauce or kept whole for a chunky texture. Try them with spaghetti, fettuccini, or rice noodles. They also work well in rice dishes like risotto and herbed rice.

Sandwiches

Use roasted cherry tomatoes as a sandwich topping or in a panini or quesadilla. They're delicious with crusty bread, greens, and grilled chicken. For a vegetarian option, try a fancy BLT with roasted tomatoes instead of raw.

Soups

Roasted cherry tomatoes are perfect for adding to soups, such as minestrone, vegetable soup, or tomato soup. They can also be blended into a creamy tomato soup.

Eggs

Try roasted cherry tomatoes with scrambled eggs or as part of an egg dish like a frittata or quiche.

Meat and Seafood

Roasted cherry tomatoes pair well with meats like chicken, sausage, and bacon. They can also be served with seafood, such as cod or shrimp.

Other Ideas

• Use them as a pizza topping or make a flatbread with tomato, basil, and mozzarella.
• Add them to a grain bowl or buddha bowl.
• Include them in a charcuterie board or bruschetta.
• Mix them into a compound butter and serve on top of steak or fish.

How to prepare cherry tomatoes for roasting

Preparing cherry tomatoes for roasting in an air fryer is simple and requires very few ingredients. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and your choice of seasoning. Recommended seasonings include sea salt, Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs like basil. You can also add garlic for a garlic-roasted variation.

Next, wash and cut the tomatoes in half. If you are using larger varieties like Roma tomatoes, cut them into quarters. Place the tomatoes in a small mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the tomatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated. You can also add your chosen seasonings to this bowl and mix well.

Now, it's time to arrange the tomatoes in your air fryer. Place them in a single layer on the air fryer tray or basket. For extra juicy tomatoes, use a tray or basket without holes, or line the bottom of a basket with aluminium foil or parchment paper to catch any juices. Do not overcrowd the tomatoes, as this will affect their ability to roast evenly.

Once your tomatoes are prepared, it's time to set your air fryer. If your air fryer has a preheat setting, preheat it to 400°F (204°C). Then, place the tray or basket inside and set the timer.

The cooking time for roasted cherry tomatoes can vary depending on your desired level of doneness. For slightly roasted tomatoes, 5-8 minutes should be sufficient. If you prefer your tomatoes with a great char, you may need to roast them for a few minutes longer. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook.

When the tomatoes are done to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and serve! Roasted cherry tomatoes make a delicious addition to pasta dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more. They can also be enjoyed as a snack on their own.

What oil is best for roasting cherry tomatoes

Yes, you can roast cherry tomatoes in an air fryer!

Now, what oils are best for roasting cherry tomatoes?

A good-quality oil is essential when air frying. Extra virgin olive oil is a popular choice for roasting cherry tomatoes in an air fryer. It has a robust flavour and is versatile, working well with the other ingredients in this dish. Avocado oil is another option that works well.

If you're looking for a more intense flavour, try extra virgin olive oil. This type of olive oil has a stronger taste that can really enhance the flavour of the tomatoes. It's also a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are great for your heart health.

For a more cost-effective option, regular olive oil is a good choice. It still has the benefits of olive oil but is usually cheaper than extra virgin olive oil. Canola oil is another affordable and versatile option with a neutral flavour that won't overpower the taste of the tomatoes.

Finally, if you're looking for a more unique flavour, try using infused olive oils. You can find olive oils infused with garlic, chilli, or herbs that can add an extra layer of flavour to your roasted cherry tomatoes. Just be mindful that the smoke point of infused oils may be lower than regular olive oil, so adjust your air fryer temperature accordingly.

Remember, when roasting cherry tomatoes in an air fryer, it's important not to overcrowd the basket. The tomatoes should be in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Enjoy your delicious and healthy snack!

How to store roasted cherry tomatoes

Roasted cherry tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. To reheat, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top and warm up in the microwave or air fryer.

To freeze roasted cherry tomatoes, first, let them cool completely. Then, add them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to six months.

Another option for storing roasted cherry tomatoes is to preserve them in olive oil. To do this, cover the tomatoes completely with olive oil and store them in the refrigerator for up to four weeks. The olive oil will harden in the refrigerator, but it will return to liquid if you let it sit out before serving. You can also freeze cherry tomatoes preserved in olive oil for up to six months.

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