Air Fryer Tomato Sauce

Wash the tomatoes and roughly chop them into quarters, removing the stem end.

Transfer the cut tomatoes to a heat-safe baking dish.

Add the onion and bell pepper (optional), both roughly chopped, to the baking dish with the tomatoes.

Add about six cloves of garlic (or to taste), salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

Drizzle all ingredients generously with olive oil.

Arrange the ingredients in the dish, ensuring the garlic settles towards the bottom to prevent it from burning on the surface.

Place the baking dish in the air fryer preheated to 300°F (150°C) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes have significantly withered and the surface is slightly toasted.

Remove the ingredients from the air fryer and let them cool down slightly before handling.

Transfer the softened contents to an immersion blender, regular blender, or food processor.

Add a few basil leaves (or your preferred seasoning like oregano or green herbs) to the mixture.

Blend all ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous sauce with good texture, which will be richer and more interesting than a completely smooth purée.