If you’re searching for a tasty tomato side dish, this recipe is for you. It turns a quart of grape tomatoes into a versatile ingredient in 30 to 40 minutes. It’s perfect for making any meal better.
Roasting tomatoes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit enhances their flavor. With olive oil, garlic, and herbs, you can top pasta, bruschetta, and pizza. This recipe serves 2 to 4 people and yields about 1 cup of tomatoes.
This recipe is not only quick and easy but also healthy. Each serving has 140 calories, 4.5 g of carbs, and 1.0 g of protein. You’ll also get vitamins A and C from the tomatoes.
Cherry, grape, or plum tomatoes work well in this recipe. It’s ready in just 5 minutes to prep and 20 to 25 minutes to cook. So, preheat your oven and enjoy the taste of oven-roasted tomatoes!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
This roasted tomatoes recipe is a game-changer. It turns ordinary tomatoes into a flavorful ingredient. This makes your dishes better.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is quick and easy. You need tomatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Just slice the tomatoes, toss with seasonings, and roast. In 45 minutes to an hour, you’re done.
Intense, Concentrated Flavor
Roasting tomatoes makes them sweeter and more flavorful. Roasting at 300℉ for 2-3 hours makes them even sweeter. This tomato roasting technique is perfect for any season.
Versatile Ingredient
Roasted tomatoes are very versatile. They’re great in soups, pasta, pizza, salads, and appetizers. Here are some ideas:
- Toss them with pasta and basil for a quick meal.
- Top bruschetta or crostini with them for a tasty appetizer.
- Add them to soups or stews for extra flavor.
- Mix them with greens and dressing for a healthy salad.
With so many uses, you’ll always find a way to use roasted tomatoes. Try this healthy roasted tomato recipe and see how it changes your cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this tasty roasted tomatoes recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and aromatic dish. The key ingredients are:
Tomatoes (Campari, Roma, Plum, or Cherry)
The star of this recipe is the tomatoes. You can use different types like Campari, Roma, plum, or cherry tomatoes. For this recipe, you’ll need about 2 to 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes. This will give you 2 to 3 cups of roasted cherry tomatoes or baked tomatoes.
Garlic
Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the roasted tomatoes. You’ll need around 6 cloves of garlic for this recipe. These will be roasted alongside the tomatoes to create a rich, aromatic taste.
Olive Oil
To ensure the tomatoes roast evenly and develop a delicious flavor, you’ll need about 1/3 cup of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. The olive oil helps to coat the tomatoes. It allows them to caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Herbs and Spices
To elevate the flavor of your roasted tomatoes, you can add various herbs and spices. You can use fresh thyme, sumac, chili pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients will enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. They create a well-rounded flavor profile.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh tomatoes (Campari, Roma, plum, or cherry) | 2 to 3 pounds |
| Garlic cloves | 6 cloves |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1/3 cup |
| Herbs and spices (e.g., fresh thyme, sumac, chili pepper flakes) | To taste |
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create a batch of delicious roasted cherry tomatoes or baked tomatoes. You can use them in various dishes or enjoy them on their own as a flavorful side dish.
How to Choose the Right Tomatoes for Roasting
Choosing the right tomatoes is key to a tasty roasted tomatoes recipe. Go for smaller tomatoes like Campari, Roma, plum, or cherry. They roast better and taste sweeter.
Stay away from big, juicy tomatoes. They roast slower and can get too wet. Roasting is great for using up soft tomatoes that aren’t good raw. Cooking tomatoes with olive oil boosts lycopene absorption, a tomato antioxidant.
For your roasted tomatoes, use about 3 pounds of fresh tomatoes. A half sheet pan works best without a liner for caramelization. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 35 to 45 minutes. Check the tomatoes every 5 minutes after 30 minutes to avoid too much water.
This recipe makes about 6 servings. Here’s what each serving has:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g | 4% |
| Protein | 2 g | 4% |
| Fat | 9 g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g | 5% |
| Sodium | 414 mg | 17% |
| Potassium | 523 mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6 g | 7% |
| Vitamin A | 1110 IU | 22% |
| Vitamin C | 53 mg | 64% |
| Calcium | 32 mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2 mg | 11% |
Step-by-Step Guide to Roasting Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes is a simple way to boost their flavor. It makes them a great addition to many dishes. Follow these steps to roast tomatoes perfectly every time.
Preheat the Oven
First, heat your oven to 400°F (204°C). This high heat will caramelize the tomatoes and intensify their taste.
Prepare the Tomatoes
Pick your favorite tomato for roasting. Roma tomatoes are great because they have less water and a meaty feel. Campari, plum, and cherry tomatoes also work well. Cut them in half or quarters, and take out the seeds if you want.
Season and Toss
In a big bowl, mix the tomatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs or spices you like. Here’s a basic recipe to start with:
- 3 lb (1.36 kg) Roma tomatoes, halved
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 g) black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp (7.5 ml) dried oregano
Mix everything well so the tomatoes are well coated.
Roast to Perfection
Put the seasoned tomatoes, cut-side up, on a baking sheet. Make sure they have enough space. Roast them in the oven at 400°F (204°C). Here are some roasting times to keep in mind:
| Tomato Type | Roasting Time |
|---|---|
| Roma | 40 minutes |
| Campari | 35 minutes |
| Cherry or Grape | 20-25 minutes |
Watch the tomatoes while they roast. Take them out when they’re soft, caramelized, and a bit shriveled. Let them cool before using them in your recipes or storing them for later.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Roasted Tomatoes
Roasting tomatoes is a simple yet transformative cooking technique. It brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their flavor. To ensure your roasted tomatoes recipe turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
Ensure Even Sizing
When preparing your tomatoes for roasting, it’s important to slice them into even pieces. This ensures that all the tomatoes cook at the same rate. Aim for slices between 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick, depending on the size of your tomatoes.
Use High-Quality Olive Oil
The quality of your ingredients can make a big difference in the final flavor of your roasted tomatoes. Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It will enhance the tomatoes’ natural taste and promote caramelization during roasting. Use about 1 tablespoon of olive oil per cup of tomatoes.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
To achieve perfectly roasted tomatoes, give them enough space on the baking sheet. Arrange the tomatoes in a single layer, leaving some room between each piece. This allows for proper air circulation and prevents the tomatoes from steaming instead of roasting. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy, unevenly cooked tomatoes.
| Ingredient | Amount per Cup of Tomatoes |
|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Fresh Herbs | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly roasted tomatoes every time. Whether you’re using them in pasta dishes, on bruschetta, or as a flavorful addition to soups and salads, these roasted tomatoes are sure to impress.
Storing and Freezing Roasted Tomatoes
Learning to make perfect roasted tomatoes is just the start. You’ll want to keep their intense flavor for as long as you can. The right storage methods are key to keeping your tomatoes fresh, whether you use them soon or later.
Refrigerator Storage
For quick use, the fridge is a great place to store roasted tomatoes. Let them cool down first, then put them in an airtight container. Stored right, they stay good in the fridge for 4-5 days. This means you can always have them ready for pasta, bruschetta, or vegan mushroom recipes.
Freezer Storage
Freezing is perfect for keeping tomatoes for longer. Cool them down, then put them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. In the freezer, they stay good for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before using.
Freezing tomato sauce is also a good idea. Use freezer-safe jars or containers for it. The sauce can last up to a year in the freezer. It’s great for many dishes, from classic Italian to new creations.
Learning how to store your roasted tomatoes means you can enjoy them for months. They add flavor and richness to your meals with ease.
Delicious Ways to Use Roasted Tomatoes
Roasted tomatoes add a burst of flavor to many dishes. They’re great for quick meals, impressive appetizers, and hearty soups. Here are some tasty ways to use them:
Pasta Dishes
Roasted tomatoes are a hit in pasta dishes. A simple roasted tomato pasta can be ready in 30 minutes. It serves 4, with about 373 calories per serving.
Just toss 4 cups of roasted cherry tomatoes with 8 ounces of pasta. Add minced garlic, fresh basil, and lemon juice. It’s a quick, satisfying meal.
Bruschetta and Crostini
Roasted tomatoes are perfect for bruschetta and crostini. Slice a baguette, brush with olive oil, and toast until golden. Top each slice with a mix of roasted tomato bruschetta.
This mix includes chopped tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic vinegar. These appetizers are great for parties or a light snack.
Soups and Stews
As it gets cooler, roasted tomato soup is a warm, nourishing choice. Blend roasted tomatoes with garlic, onions, and stock. Simmer until hot, then add cream or coconut milk for creaminess.
Serve with grilled cheese for a classic combo. Roasted tomatoes also add flavor to stews and chilis.
Salads and Sandwiches
Add roasted tomatoes to salads and sandwiches for a flavor boost. Mix them with greens, feta, and balsamic vinaigrette for a roasted tomato salad. Or, layer them on sandwiches with mozzarella, pesto, and arugula for a gourmet twist.
The possibilities are endless with these flavorful gems in your salads and sandwiches.
| Dish | Preparation Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Tomato Pasta | 30 minutes | 4 |
| Roasted Tomato Bruschetta | 15 minutes | 6-8 |
| Roasted Tomato Soup | 45 minutes | 4-6 |
| Roasted Tomato Salad | 20 minutes | 4 |
Roasted Tomatoes Recipe Variations
Try new flavors by mixing herbs and spices with your roasted tomatoes. Use herbs like rosemary, oregano, basil, or garlic powder for unique tastes. Drizzle balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy twist, making the tomatoes caramelized and irresistible.
Roasting tomatoes takes about 45-60 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Stir every 20 minutes for even cooking. You’ll need:
- 2 (10-ounce) containers of cherry tomatoes
- 1.5-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices. Add balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Here are tasty variations to try:
| Variation | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Italian Herb | Fresh basil, oregano, and parmesan cheese |
| Spicy Garlic | Minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley |
| Balsamic Glaze | Balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh thyme |
Herb and Spice Combinations
Try different herb and spice mixes for unique flavors. Some favorites include:
- Rosemary and garlic
- Basil and oregano
- Thyme and black pepper
- Cumin and paprika
Balsamic Roasted Tomatoes
Drizzle balsamic vinegar on tomatoes before roasting for a sweet twist. The vinegar caramelizes, adding a rich flavor. It’s great on bruschetta or with grilled meats.
Nutritional Benefits of Roasted Tomatoes
Roasted tomatoes are not just tasty but also super good for you. They are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One key compound is lycopene, which is more available when tomatoes are cooked, like roasting.
Lycopene is linked to many health benefits. It may help lower heart disease and cancer risks. Can protect cells and reduce cancer risks in several parts of the body. It also helps with cholesterol and blood pressure, which can lower heart disease and stroke risks.
Tomatoes also have lutein and zeaxanthin, which fight age-related blindness. They can help with gum diseases by fighting free radicals.
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 grams |
|---|---|
| Calories | 18 |
| Protein | 0.9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 3.9 grams |
| Sugar | 2.6 grams |
| Fiber | 1.2 grams |
| Fat | 0.2 grams |
| Vitamin C | 28% of the RDI |
Roasting tomatoes makes their nutrients, like lycopene, more available. This makes them a great choice for healthy recipes. So, enjoy the taste and health benefits of roasted tomatoes in your meals!
Conclusion
This step-by-step roasted tomatoes recipe is a game-changer for home cooks. It helps you add intense, concentrated tomato flavor to your dishes. By slow-roasting plum tomatoes at 275˚F for 3 to 4 hours or cherry tomatoes for about 1.5 hours, you get a versatile ingredient.
These roasted tomatoes can be used in many ways. You can toss them with pasta, top bruschetta with them, or enjoy them as a snack. They will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
To get the best flavor, choose high-quality tomatoes like Roma or plum. Add unpeeled garlic cloves around the pan for extra taste. With olive oil, salt, and pepper, you can make your tomatoes a tasty and healthy addition to any meal.
If you have more roasted tomatoes than you can use, store them in olive oil in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. This way, you always have this easy side dish ready.
Next time you want to add flavor to your dishes, try this roasted tomatoes recipe. It’s quick, versatile, and healthy. It’s perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. It brings out the natural sweetness and complexity of tomatoes, making every meal special.