Craving a burst of fresh, juicy flavor? Looking for an easy and versatile way to use those vibrant little orbs of sunshine? You’ve come to the right place! This blog post is dedicated to all things cherry tomato recipe. We’re diving into a delicious and incredibly simple recipe for Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs – a dish so versatile, you’ll be putting it on everything!
What is Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs?
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs – the name just rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? But where did it come from? Did a Roman emperor demand only roasted cherry tomatoes for his pasta sauce? Was it secretly invented by garden gnomes in a faraway land? The truth is probably less exciting, but the taste?
Oh, the taste is anything but mundane! It’s like a party in your mouth! We all know ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ but let’s be honest, everyone loves good food. So, whether you’re trying to impress a date, feed a family, or just treat yourself, why not give this recipe a whirl? You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy these tiny treasures!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs recipe is a total winner for so many reasons. The MAIN HIGHLIGHT is undeniably the concentrated sweetness that develops as the tomatoes roast, bursting with flavor in every bite. Plus, making it at home is a huge COST-SAVER compared to buying pre-made sauces or condiments. You only need a handful of ingredients! The FLAVORFUL TOPPINGS – garlic, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil – transform simple tomatoes into something truly special.
If you’re looking for something a little different but still tomato-tastic, you might also love a classic bruschetta. But roasted cherry tomatoes offer a uniquely concentrated sweetness that bruschetta can’t quite replicate. Ready to experience tomato perfection? Give this recipe a try!
Key Ingredients for Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple yet irresistible dish:
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint (about 500g), washed and dried. Any variety works, but a mix of colors looks beautiful!
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced. Don’t be shy with the garlic!
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons, chopped. A combination of basil, thyme, and oregano is fantastic, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, extra virgin. Quality olive oil makes a difference in flavor.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground.
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
How to Make Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This dish is incredibly EASY to make, taking ripe tomatoes and transforming them into something unforgettable. The SIMPLE preparation and rich, SATISFYING taste make it a weeknight staple. Imagine the creamy, garlicky aroma filling your kitchen! Preparation time is only about 10 minutes, with a roasting time of approximately 25-30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature helps to quickly roast the tomatoes, intensifying their sweetness while preventing them from becoming mushy.
Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes. Ensuring they’re dry is crucial for roasting rather than steaming. A salad spinner works well for this, or simply pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the dried cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (basil, thyme, oregano), olive oil, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using red pepper flakes, add them now. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure the tomatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned cherry tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat is optional but recommended for easy cleanup. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. If needed, use two baking sheets.
Roast the Tomatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes should be softened, slightly wrinkled, and bursting with their juices. The garlic should be fragrant and lightly golden.
Check for Doneness: To check if the tomatoes are ready, gently poke one with a fork. It should easily yield and release its juices. The skins should be slightly blistered.
Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tomatoes cool slightly before serving. Be careful, as the released juices will be very hot.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the roasted tomatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
What to Serve Roasted Cherry Tomatoes With
These versatile roasted cherry tomatoes go with just about everything! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Pasta: Toss them with your favorite pasta shape for a simple and flavorful sauce. Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for extra richness.
- Bruschetta: Spoon them onto toasted baguette slices for a delicious appetizer.
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: Serve them as a vibrant side dish.
- Salads: Add them to salads for a burst of sweetness and acidity.
- Pizza: Use them as a topping for a homemade pizza.
- Eggs: Serve them alongside scrambled or fried eggs for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
- Cream Cheese and Crackers: Spoon over cream cheese on crackers as a quick and tasty snack.
- Polenta: Serve them over creamy polenta for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
To ensure your roasted cherry tomatoes are consistently delicious, keep these tips in mind:
- Use quality olive oil. Since it’s a primary flavor component, the quality significantly impacts the end result.
- Ensure the tomatoes are dry before roasting. Excess moisture can cause them to steam instead of roast, leading to a softer and less flavorful outcome.
- roast tomatoes within 30 minutes immediately after prepping for the best quality and flavor. if not the tomatoes could be come mushy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can prevent proper roasting and lead to the tomatoes steaming in their own juices.
- Adjust roasting time based on tomato size. Smaller tomatoes may roast faster, while larger ones may require a few extra minutes.
- Add a touch of sweetness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a pinch of sugar can enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Consider adding other vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or onions can be roasted alongside the tomatoes for a more substantial dish.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, sage, or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add unique flavors to the dish.
- Watch the garlic closely. Garlic can burn easily in the oven, so keep an eye on it and adjust the roasting time if necessary.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup. Parchment paper prevents the tomatoes from sticking to the baking sheet and simplifies cleanup.
- When substituting Ingredients use Dried herbs sparingly. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used as a substitute. A general guideline is to use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store and reheat your roasted cherry tomatoes:
- Storing: Allow the roasted cherry tomatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: You can reheat the roasted cherry tomatoes in several ways:
- Oven: Spread them on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place them in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated to your liking.
- Stovetop: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet and sauté the tomatoes over medium heat until warmed through.
- Freezing: Roasted cherry tomatoes can be frozen for longer storage. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: Thaw the frozen cherry tomatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly softer after freezing and thawing.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Cherry Tomato Recipe is truly a kitchen essential. It’s simple enough for weeknight cooking and impressive enough for entertaining. The burst of flavor from the roasted tomatoes is unparalleled, and its versatility makes it a fantastic addition to countless dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a surefire way to add a touch of gourmet deliciousness to your meals. The combination of sweet tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs creates a sensory delight that’s hard to resist. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of roasted cherry tomatoes! Enjoy!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cherry tomatoes for this recipe?
A: While fresh cherry tomatoes are ideal, you can use frozen ones. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before roasting. The texture might be slightly softer than fresh tomatoes, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to roast along with the cherry tomatoes?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, or even asparagus can be added to the baking sheet. Just make sure to cut them into pieces that are roughly the same size, so they roast evenly.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs instead?
A: Yes, you can use dried herbs. A general guideline is to use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. So, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs, use about 2 teaspoons of dried herbs.
Q: How can I prevent the garlic from burning in the oven?
A: Keep a close eye on the garlic while the tomatoes are roasting. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can add the garlic halfway through the roasting time or tent the baking sheet with foil to prevent it from burning.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the roasted cherry tomatoes up to 1-2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to serve these roasted cherry tomatoes?
A: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Serve them over pasta, on bruschetta, as a side with grilled meats, or as a topping for salads and pizzas. The possibilities are endless!
Q: Can I add cheese to the roasted cherry tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can add cheese for extra flavor. Feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan are all excellent choices. Sprinkle the cheese over the tomatoes during the last few minutes of roasting.
Q: How do I store leftover roasted cherry tomatoes?
A: Store leftover roasted cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or stovetop, or use them cold in salads or sandwiches.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest