Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe: A Burst of Sweet and Savory Flavor
Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish or ingredient to elevate your meals? Look no further than roasted cherry tomatoes! This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers a burst of sweet and savory goodness that will leave you wanting more. These roasted tomatoes are perfect as a side dish, an ingredient in pasta sauces, or even a topping for pizzas and salads. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes: Choose ripe, firm cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will make a difference.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a delicious savory depth.
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat.
- Optional: Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano): Adds aromatic complexity.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the tomatoes roast evenly and develop a beautiful caramelized exterior.
-
Prepare the tomatoes: Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes. If using, mince the garlic and chop any fresh herbs you've chosen.
-
Toss the tomatoes: In a large bowl, gently toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic (if using), red pepper flakes (if using), and herbs (if using). Make sure the tomatoes are evenly coated.
-
Roast the tomatoes: Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened, slightly blistered, and have begun to caramelize. You'll know they're ready when they've slightly burst and released their juices.
-
Cool and serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roasted cherry tomatoes cool slightly before serving. They're delicious served warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Roasted Cherry Tomatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Overcrowding will prevent the tomatoes from roasting evenly and may result in steaming rather than roasting.
- Roast until blistered: The slight blistering and bursting of the tomatoes indicate they've reached peak flavor.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Balsamic glaze is also a fantastic addition!
- Storage: Store leftover roasted cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pasta sauce: Add them to your favorite pasta sauce for extra flavor and sweetness.
- Pizza topping: Use them as a topping for pizza for a burst of freshness.
- Salad ingredient: Toss them into a salad for a sweet and savory addition.
- Side dish: Serve them as a simple yet elegant side dish.
- Bruschetta: Top toasted bread with the roasted tomatoes for a delicious appetizer.
This simple recipe is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delicious sweetness and savory depth of these roasted cherry tomatoes! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed them and what variations you tried.
