Fried Green Tomatoes Made in the Air Fryer

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this air fryer recipe brings a healthier twist to a Southern classic. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty snack or side dish any time of year.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure the green tomatoes are firm for the best texture.
Lightly spray the coated slices with cooking oil to help them crisp evenly.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.

Ingredients 0/6

cooking spray 1 egg, beaten ½ cup cornmeal 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 2 green tomatoes, sliced

Why This Dish Is So Special

These crispy, tangy slices offer a delicious twist on a Southern classic. Using the air fryer makes them healthier and quicker to prepare, while still keeping that perfect crunchy texture.

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s warming up, give the basket a quick spray with some cooking spray to keep things from sticking. In one shallow dish, beat the egg, and in another, mix together the cornmeal, flour, panko, salt, and pepper. Dip each tomato slice into the egg, then press it into the cornmeal mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. Arrange the tomatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, then spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook them for about 8 minutes, then flip each slice, spritz any dry spots, and cook for another 4 minutes. Once they’re golden and crispy, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil. Repeat until you’ve cooked all your tomatoes.

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By David Brown

David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.

Simple Serving Suggestions

Serve these golden bites with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or spicy mayo. They also pair well with a fresh salad or as a crunchy side to grilled meats.

Best Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?

You can, but green tomatoes hold up better and are less juicy, making them ideal for frying.

Do I need to use both cornmeal and panko?

The recipe uses cornmeal for crunch and panko for extra crispiness, but you can use just cornmeal if preferred.

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Yes, you can pan-fry the tomatoes in oil on the stove, but cooking times and oil amounts will vary.

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

Spray the basket with cooking spray before adding the tomatoes and lightly spray the tomato slices themselves.

Can I prepare the coating mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dry ingredients in advance, but dip and coat the tomatoes just before cooking for best results.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.

Can I use a different type of flour or seasoning?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and adjust seasonings to taste.

How do I know when the tomatoes are done cooking?

They should be golden brown and crispy on both sides after about 12 minutes total.