Ingredients

• Bread: 2 thick slices of sturdy bread (Sourdough, Ciabatta, or Artisanal Country Bread work best)
• Tomatoes: 1 cup ripe Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, sliced in half (or 1 medium Vine-Ripe Tomato, thinly sliced)
• Cheese: $\frac{1}{2}$ cup shredded Low-Moisture Mozzarella or Sharp Cheddar (a mix of both offers great melt and flavor)
• Fat/Base Layer: 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil or unsalted butter (softened)
• Garlic: $\frac{1}{2}$ clove fresh garlic (optional, for rubbing the toast)
• Seasonings: $\frac{1}{2}$ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
• $\frac{1}{4}$ teaspoon garlic powder
• Flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Bread & Tomatoes

1. Slice your cherry tomatoes in half and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture prevents the toast from softening during cooking.
2. Lightly brush one side of each bread slice with olive oil (or spread a thin layer of softened butter).

Step 2: Pre-Toast the Bread Base

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 2 minutes.
2. Place the oiled bread slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 2 minutes . (Chef’s Tip: Pre-toasting the bread creates a protective barrier against tomato juices, guaranteeing maximum crunch.)

Step 3: Assemble the Toppings

1. Carefully remove the basket (or work directly inside if comfortable).
2. If desired, lightly rub the cut side of a fresh garlic clove over the toasted top surface for subtle garlic flavor.
3. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the pre-toasted bread.
4. Layer the sliced tomatoes on top of the cheese layer.
5. Top with the remaining cheese (this traps the tomatoes so the air fryer fan doesn’t blow them off).
6. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Final Air Fry

1. Return the basket to the air fryer.
2. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 3 to 4 minutes , or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges, and the tomatoes are tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Use tongs to transfer the hot cheesy toast to a cutting board.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped basil, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or a drizzle of thick balsamic reduction.
3. Slice in half and serve immediately while warm and crispy!

Nutrition

Calories: 235 kcal — · Protein: 11 g 22% · Fat: 11 g 14% · Carbohydrates: 22 g 8% Dietary · Saturated Fat: 5 g 25% · Fiber: 2 g 7% · Sugar: 3 g — · Sodium: 410 mg 18%