Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy, tangy, and absolutely addictive, these Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes are a healthier spin on the Southern classic. Sliced green tomatoes are coated in a perfectly seasoned cornmeal crust, then air-fried to golden perfection with little to no oil. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with your favorite dipping sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Without the Oil – All the crunch of fried tomatoes, made lighter in the air fryer.
Southern Flavor – Cornmeal coating and seasoning bring true Southern comfort.
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes from prep to plate.
Versatile – Serve as a starter, in sandwiches, or as a side.
Customizable – Adjust spice level and dipping sauces to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Tomatoes:
2–3 medium green tomatoes, firm and sliced ¼-inch thick
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Breading:
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk (any kind)
½ cup cornmeal
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Cooking Spray or Oil:
Olive oil or avocado oil spray for crisping

For Serving:
Ranch dressing
Remoulade sauce
Spicy mayo or aioli
Hot sauce
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need
Air fryer
3 shallow bowls (for dredging station)
Tongs or fork
Knife and cutting board
Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

1. Slice tomatoes into ¼-inch thick rounds.
2. Lay them on paper towels and sprinkle both sides with salt.
3. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

1. In the first bowl: Add flour and black pepper.
2. In the second bowl: Beat eggs with milk.
3. In the third bowl: Combine cornmeal, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.

Step 3: Bread the Tomatoes

1. Dip each tomato slice into flour, shaking off excess.
2. Then dip into egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
3. Finally, coat in the cornmeal-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Air Fry the Tomatoes

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Spray the air fryer basket with oil.
3. Place breaded tomato slices in a single layer (you may need to work in batches).
4. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
5. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving.
2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and garnish with herbs if desired.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes
Choose Firm Tomatoes – Unripe, green tomatoes hold their shape best during cooking.
Dry Well – Patting them dry helps the coating stick and crisps better.
Use Panko – For an extra crunchy texture that mimics traditional frying.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches so they crisp instead of steam.
Spray Evenly – A light mist of oil promotes even browning.

Serving Suggestions
Serve as an appetizer with ranch, remoulade, or aioli.
Add to a BLT or grilled cheese sandwich for a Southern twist.
Top with crumbled feta and drizzle with hot honey.
Pair with a crisp garden salad or coleslaw.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 3–4 minutes until crisp again.
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
Microwave: Not recommended—they’ll lose their crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use red tomatoes?
   Green tomatoes are firmer and tangier, which makes them ideal. Ripe red tomatoes are too soft for this recipe.
2. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes—use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Cornmeal is naturally gluten-free.
3. What if I don’t have cornmeal?
   Use more breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a slightly different texture.
4. Can I bake them instead?
   Yes—bake at 425°F on a parchment-lined sheet for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. What dipping sauces go best?
   Try ranch, chipotle mayo, remoulade, or even tzatziki for a fresh contrast.

Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes give you the crispy crunch and Southern charm of the traditional dish—without the extra oil or mess. They’re easy, satisfying, and the perfect way to use up firm green tomatoes. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a lifelong fan, you’ll love this lightened-up classic.

Try them out and tag your favorite dips and pairings—I’d love to see your crispy creations!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 180 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 20g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 280mg

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