Mediterranean Oven-roasted Tomatoes
Oven-Roasted Tomatoes
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What I Like About this Recipe
- It is a delicious vegan dish.
- The tomatoes become sweetly caramelized, and when you bite them, you get a potent burst of flavor.
- It is plain and quick to make.
- It is highly versatile; it combines with so many dishes.
- It is healthy.
What is this recipe?
This is a simple and flavorful dish made by roasting Roma tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The roasting process caramelizes the tomatoes, intensifying their sweetness and creating a rich, savory bite.
Where does it come from?
Tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs are staples in Mediterranean diets, particularly in countries like Italy, Greece, and Spain, where roasted vegetables are commonly used to enhance a variety of dishes.
So it comes mainly from the European Mediterranean.
Ingredients
Oregano Resemblance
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- 2 pounds (about 900 grams) Roma tomatoes, halved lengthwise
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
- Three cloves garlic, minced
- One teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Use pepper and salt to your liking.
Olive Oil Resemblance
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
Instructions
- Set your oven temperature to 375°F or 190°C. Place oven paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved Roma tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Position the tomatoes, cut side up, on the prepped baking sheet in a single layer.
- Char the tomatoes in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until soft and caramelized around the edges.
- Let them cool slightly outside the oven before serving.
Suggestions for Serving
- Enjoy them as a side dish or appetizer, either warm or at room temperature.
- Use them as a topping or ingredient for salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, bruschetta, pita, or sandwiches, or as a side dish in barbeques for added flavor and texture.
- Incorporate them into sauces, soups, or stews to enhance the depth of flavor.
Oven-Roasted Tomatoes
Tips and ideas
- Choose ripe Roma tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
- I recommend experimenting with your preferred herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes.
- Store any leftover roasted tomatoes in an airtight receptacle in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze them for extended storage. Use them as needed.
- Experiment with different varieties of tomatoes, such as cherry or grape tomatoes, for unique flavor profiles in your unique recipes.
Oven-Roasted Tomatoes
Mediterranean Oven-Roasted Tomatoes FAQ
1. What kind of tomatoes should I use?
Roma tomatoes work best due to their low water content and firm texture. However, you can also use cherry, grape, or other meaty tomatoes.
2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones like basil, oregano, or thyme. For a stronger, fresher flavor, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried ones.
3. How long do the roasted tomatoes last?
You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months to use later in sauces or soups.
4. Can I add other vegetables to roast with the tomatoes?
Yes, of course. Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or onions pair well with roasted tomatoes, and you can add them to the same tray for extra flavor.
5. How can I use the roasted tomatoes?
They are versatile and can be used as a side dish, on top of pasta or pizza, in sandwiches or pita, or even blended into sauces for extra richness and flavor.
6. What temperature should I roast the tomatoes?
Roast the tomatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until they are soft and caramelized around the edges.
7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and roast the tomatoes ahead of time. Store them in the fridge or freezer and reheat or use them as needed.
8. Do I need to peel the tomatoes before roasting?
No, peeling the tomatoes is not necessary. The skin helps retain the shape of the tomatoes and adds extra texture and flavor when roasted.
9. Can I use this recipe for other types of tomatoes?
Yes, I encourage you to experiment with different tomato varieties, such as cherry or grape tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time, as smaller tomatoes may roast faster.
10. How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too mushy?
Keep the tomatoes cut-side up on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Roasting at the right temperature also helps maintain a good texture without over-softening.
Mediterranean Oven-roasted Tomatoes Recipe
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Ingredients
- 2 lb Roma tomatoes halved legthwise
- 2 tbspn Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tspn Dried basil
- 0.5 tspn Dried oregano
- Pepper
- Salt
Instructions
- Set your oven temperature to 375°F or 190°C. Place oven paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved Roma tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Position the tomatoes, cut side up, on the prepped baking sheet in a single layer.
- Char the tomatoes in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until soft and caramelized around the edges.
- Let them cool slightly outside the oven before serving.
Nutrition
