Name: Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pints Cherry Tomatoes; 1/3 cup Olive Oil; 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan; 5 cloves Garlic (minced); 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Pepper; 5 sprigs Basil

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Whenever I think of summer flavors, Roasted Cherry Tomatoes immediately comes to mind. There’s something undeniably joyful about these bursting little gems, especially when they come straight from the garden or the farmer’s market. Just last week, I found myself with a bounty of fresh cherry tomatoes, their vibrant colors practically calling me to create something delicious. After a long day, I decided to transform these beauties into a simple yet unforgettable dish. The aroma that filled my kitchen as they roasted was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I couldn’t wait to enjoy this delightful treat, whether tossed in a pasta dish, served atop bruschetta, or simply enjoyed straight off the baking sheet.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Grater, Wooden Spoon

What You’ll Enjoy About This Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

A Burst of Flavor

The first reason to love Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is the explosion of flavor they deliver. When roasted, these small fruits develop a rich, caramelized sweetness that enhances their natural taste. It’s a simple transformation that elevates their flavor profile beyond fresh tomatoes.

Simple Ingredients

This dish requires only a handful of ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook. You likely have everything on hand, from olive oil to garlic. This simplicity is what makes it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a last-minute side dish.

Versatility in Serving

You can serve Roasted Cherry Tomatoes in numerous ways, whether as a side to your favorite protein, mixed into a salad, or even as a topping on pizzas and pastas. They can adapt to fit any meal, making them a fantastic addition to your cooking repertoire.

Healthy Option

Not only are these tomatoes delicious, but they’re also packed with beneficial nutrients. They are low in calories and high in vitamins like vitamin C and potassium, making them a great choice for a healthy diet.

Great for Meal Prep

Another advantage is that once roasted, these tomatoes can be stored and enjoyed later. This makes them an excellent option for meal prep. You can roast a large batch and incorporate them into various dishes throughout the week.

Quick and Easy

Lastly, Roasted Cherry Tomatoes are incredibly easy to prepare. In just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dish ready to enjoy. This ease of cooking is perfect for busy individuals who still want to enjoy homemade meals.

Ingredients Required for Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

The ingredients for Roasted Cherry Tomatoes are straightforward yet essential for achieving that perfect flavor. Each component plays a vital role, complementing the tomatoes beautifully. The rich olive oil enhances the roasting process, while the garlic adds depth and aroma. Together, they create a harmonious blend that ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

2 Pints Cherry Tomatoes: These tiny tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and perfect for roasting. When baked, they burst with flavor, making them a delightful addition to any dish.
1/3 Cup Olive Oil: This rich oil not only helps in roasting but also adds a smooth texture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan: This cheese adds a savory depth and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
5 Cloves Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with its robust flavor, making every bite aromatic and delicious.
1/2 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste, this seasoning is a classic pairing with tomatoes.
1/2 teaspoon Salt: Essential for balancing flavors, it enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
1/4 teaspoon Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a bit of heat and a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes.
5 Sprigs Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, elevating the dish to another level with its fresh, aromatic flavor.

Recipe Steps for Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Preparing Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is a straightforward process that anyone can master. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this flavorful dish. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a perfectly roasted batch in no time.

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This high temperature is essential for roasting and helps the tomatoes caramelize beautifully.
In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, grated Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all the tomatoes are well-coated with the mixture. Look for that glossy sheen from the olive oil.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface and easy cleanup. Spread the tomato mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Aim for a single layer to allow for even roasting.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes. As they roast, the tomatoes will begin to pop and burst, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Check the tomatoes after 15 minutes. They should be soft and slightly caramelized. The skins will start to wrinkle and blister, indicating they’re done. If they need more time, check every couple of minutes until they reach your desired doneness.
Once roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. The flavors will have intensified and melded beautifully, making them irresistible.

Things Worth Knowing

Freshness is Key: Always choose ripe, fresh cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. They should be bright, firm, and free from blemishes.
Don’t Skip the Parchment: Lining your baking sheet with parchment makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the tomatoes from sticking.
Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the tomatoes while they roast. Depending on their size and your oven, cooking times may vary slightly.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs. Fresh thyme or oregano can also be used to add even more flavor.

Customization Ideas

There are plenty of ways to customize Roasted Cherry Tomatoes to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some ideas to inspire your next creation.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make a great addition to salads or sandwiches.
Freezing: You can freeze roasted tomatoes for later use. Spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Pairing: Serve these tomatoes alongside grilled chicken or fish. They also make a fantastic topping for bruschetta or mixed into pasta dishes.
Seasonal Variations: Consider adding seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant to the roasting pan for a complete side dish.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Herb Variations: Try using fresh cilantro or parsley for a different twist.

How to Enjoy Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

As a Tasty Side Dish: These roasted tomatoes make a perfect side for grilled meats or fish. Their sweetness pairs beautifully with savory flavors.
On Pasta: Toss these tomatoes with your favorite pasta for an easy, flavorful meal. You can also add some toasted nuts or fresh herbs for added texture.
On Toast: Spread them on toasted bread for a delightful bruschetta. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an extra layer of flavor.
In Salads: Add them to salads for a burst of flavor. Their juiciness will enhance any fresh greens.
In Sandwiches: Use them as a topping on sandwiches or wraps for a fresh, vibrant addition.
As a Snack: Enjoy them straight from the baking sheet as a healthy snack!

FAQ

You can serve Roasted Cherry Tomatoes in a variety of ways! They make an excellent side dish for grilled meats or fish. You can also toss them with pasta for a flavorful meal or use them as a topping for bruschetta. Their versatility means they can easily blend into salads or even be added to sandwiches for a burst of flavor.

To store leftovers of your Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last about three days. If you find you have too many, consider freezing them. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze individually before storing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy them later in soups or stews.

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for roasting due to their sweetness, you can use other varieties like grape tomatoes or even larger tomatoes. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even roasting. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the tomato pieces.

The real magic of Roasted Cherry Tomatoes lies in their flavor transformation during roasting. The heat brings out their natural sugars, making them incredibly sweet and flavorful. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also highlights the essence of summer tomatoes, making them a standout side dish or topping for various meals.

Conclusion

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes are a delightful dish that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Their vibrant flavor and versatility make them a must-try for any home cook. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot—you’ll find it’s a delicious way to enjoy the bounty of summer!

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

The ultimate summer treat, Roasted Cherry Tomatoes burst with flavor and add a pop of color to any meal. Easy to prepare and deliciously versatile, they make the perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Enjoy these juicy gems roasted to perfection!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 pints Cherry Tomatoes
1/3 cup Olive Oil
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan
5 cloves Garlic minced
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Pepper
5 sprigs Basil

Equipment

Oven
Grater
Wooden Spoon

Method

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This high temperature is essential for roasting and helps the tomatoes caramelize beautifully.
In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, grated Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all the tomatoes are well-coated with the mixture. Look for that glossy sheen from the olive oil.
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface and easy cleanup. Spread the tomato mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Aim for a single layer to allow for even roasting.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes. As they roast, the tomatoes will begin to pop and burst, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Check the tomatoes after 15 minutes. They should be soft and slightly caramelized. The skins will start to wrinkle and blister, indicating they’re done. If they need more time, check every couple of minutes until they reach your desired doneness.
Once roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. The flavors will have intensified and melded beautifully, making them irresistible.