Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe – Crispy, Light, and Flavorful
The Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe is a modern twist on a Southern classic, offering a healthier way to enjoy this crispy treat. This recipe uses an air fryer to achieve the perfect golden-brown crust without the need for deep frying. Begin by slicing firm green tomatoes into even rounds, then dip them in a mixture of flour, beaten egg, and seasoned breadcrumbs or cornmeal. The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, creating a crunchy coating that locks in the tangy flavor of the tomatoes. With minimal oil required, this method reduces calories and fat while maintaining the dish’s signature texture and taste. These fried green tomatoes make a delightful appetizer, snack, or side dish, perfect for any occasion. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a healthier, guilt-free version of a beloved comfort food that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic that brings together crispy, tangy, and savory flavors. Traditionally deep-fried, they can be a bit heavy and greasy, but with the magic of an air fryer, you can enjoy a much lighter version that doesn’t sacrifice any of the deliciousness. Air fryer fried green tomatoes are an easy and healthier alternative to the deep-fried classic, making them a great appetizer, snack, or side dish. This recipe keeps the tomatoes crispy on the outside while preserving their tart flavor on the inside. Paired with a zesty dipping sauce, these air fryer fried green tomatoes are sure to impress at any gathering.
Air Fryer Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking Sheet (optional, for resting)
Ingredients
- 3 large green tomatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking spray (olive oil or vegetable oil)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Slice the green tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Breading Station
- In the first bowl, place the flour.
- In the second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg until well combined.
- In the third bowl, mix the cornmeal, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Coating the Tomatoes
- Dredge each tomato slice in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the flour-coated tomato slice into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the tomato slice in the cornmeal-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
Air Frying
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the coated tomato slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook in batches.
- Lightly spray the tops of the tomato slices with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- Remove the fried green tomatoes from the air fryer and let them rest on a baking sheet or plate for a few minutes.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or remoulade.
Notes
Ingredients:
- 3 medium green tomatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the tomatoes: Start by washing the green tomatoes thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice them into 1/4-inch thick slices. Be sure to use firm green tomatoes as they hold up better when fried.
- Set up the breading station: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk the egg and buttermilk until well combined. In a third shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal and breadcrumbs.
- Bread the tomato slices: Dredge each tomato slice first in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on both sides. Dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it with the cornmeal and breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the breading sticks.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the tomatoes will cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
- Air fry the tomatoes: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded tomato slices in a single layer in the basket. Make sure the slices are not overlapping to allow proper air circulation. Spray the tops of the tomatoes with a little more oil to help them crisp up.
- Cook the tomatoes: Air fry the tomatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.
- Serve: Once the fried green tomatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. They are fantastic on their own or with a side of remoulade or ranch dipping sauce.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 180-200 per serving (about 3-4 slices, depending on thickness and size)
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 400-500mg (varies with salt level)
These nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes.
Prep Time:
- 10-15 minutes
Active Time:
- 15-20 minutes
Resting Time:
- No resting time required; best served immediately while crispy.
Cuisines:
- Southern, American
Course:
- Appetizer, Snack, Side Dish
Servings:
- 4-6 servings (depending on slice size)
Calories:
- Approximately 180-200 calories per serving
Total Time:
- 30-40 minutes (prep time + active cooking time)
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- 3 shallow bowls for breading station
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Conclusion: Air fryer fried green tomatoes offer the same crispy, satisfying crunch of the classic deep-fried version, but with much less oil. The combination of cornmeal and breadcrumbs creates a perfect crust, while the tangy green tomatoes inside retain their freshness and flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, they’re a fun and healthy option to introduce to your table. The air fryer makes the process quick and easy, and the result is just as delicious as traditional frying—without the excess oil. Enjoy these fried green tomatoes with a cool dipping sauce for a real Southern treat.
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.