Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier and more convenient method for preparing a wide range of dishes. One surprising yet delightful use of the air fryer is making a rich and flavorful roasted tomato sauce. This sauce is perfect for pasta, pizza, or any dish that benefits from a deep, roasted flavor. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a homemade sauce that surpasses anything store-bought.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg (about 3.3 lbs) ripe tomatoes
- 3 heads of garlic, peeled
- 1 red onion, cut into smaller pieces
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 pinch of chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 pinch of black pepper
- 150 ml (about 2/3 cup) extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tomatoes and Vegetables: Begin by placing one and a half kilos of ripe tomatoes directly into your air fryer basket. Adding tomatoes whole helps retain their juices and flavor. Next, add the peeled garlic cloves and the chopped red onion pieces.
- Seasoning: Season the tomatoes and vegetables with two teaspoons of salt, a pinch of chili flakes for a slight kick, one teaspoon of dried basil for a hint of herbaceousness, and a pinch of black pepper. Drizzle everything with 150 milliliters of extra virgin olive oil. The olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also helps in the roasting process. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings and oil.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the seasoned tomatoes and vegetables into the air fryer and roast them for about 20 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on the power and size of your air fryer. The tomatoes should be blistered and slightly charred, while the garlic and onions should be softened and caramelized, indicating they are ready.
- Blend: Carefully transfer the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and onions to a blender. Blend at maximum power until the mixture is smooth and well combined. At this stage, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending continuously.
- Serve: Your homemade roasted tomato sauce is now ready to be served. This versatile sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, acts as a rich pizza sauce, or can serve as a flavorful base for soups and stews. The deep, roasted flavor of the tomatoes, enhanced by the garlic and onions, will elevate any dish you use it in.
Tips and Variations:
- Herbs and Spices: While this recipe calls for dried basil, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary. Fresh herbs can be added after blending for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Add Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can be included to add sweetness and additional depth to the sauce.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a spicier sauce, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Consistency: Adjust the sauce’s consistency to your preference. For a thicker sauce, blend less or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Nutritional Benefits:
This roasted tomato sauce is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Garlic and onions are known for their immune-boosting properties and their ability to reduce inflammation. By using extra virgin olive oil, you are also incorporating healthy fats into your diet, which are essential for overall health.
Storage:
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the sauce in portions for up to three months. This makes it easy to have a quick, homemade sauce ready for any meal. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta: Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta for a simple yet flavorful meal. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Pizza: Use it as a base for homemade pizza. Spread it over the dough, add your favorite toppings, and bake to perfection.
- Soup: Incorporate the sauce into a minestrone or vegetable soup for added richness and depth of flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dip with breadsticks or garlic bread.
This air fryer roasted tomato sauce is a testament to how modern kitchen appliances can simplify cooking without compromising on flavor. The robust, roasted flavor achieved in just 20 minutes will undoubtedly impress. Not only is this sauce versatile, but it also allows you to enjoy the deep, satisfying taste of roasted tomatoes year-round. Try this recipe at home, and you’ll never look at store-bought sauces the same way again. Happy cooking!
By following this recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality sauce with ease. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to download our recipe app for more delicious ideas. Happy cooking!
