Description
Garlic roasted cherry tomatoes elevate simple ingredients into a Mediterranean-inspired side dish bursting with intense flavor. Fragrant herbs and golden-brown edges make this quick recipe a perfect companion for pasta, bread, or grilled meats that you’ll love.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomatoes:
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced or thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for extra depth, optional but recommended)
Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes by gently halving each cherry tomato, revealing their vibrant, juicy interiors.
- Create a flavor-packed marinade by combining fragrant garlic, robust olive oil, zesty oregano, and a pinch of fiery red pepper flakes in a spacious mixing bowl.
- Delicately tumble the halved tomatoes into the seasoning mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the aromatic blend.
- Arrange the tomatoes cut-side facing upward on a lined baking sheet, allowing ample space between each piece for even roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven, transforming the tomatoes into caramelized, concentrated flavor bombs through a 20-25 minute roasting process.
- Once the tomatoes develop a slightly wrinkled exterior and rich golden edges, carefully remove them from the oven.
- Enhance the roasted tomatoes with a delicate drizzle of tangy balsamic vinegar, gently tossing to distribute the glossy liquid.
- Elevate the dish by scattering freshly chopped basil or parsley across the top, adding a burst of herbaceous freshness.
- Serve these intense, flavor-packed roasted tomatoes alongside pasta, atop crispy bruschetta, alongside grilled meats, or as a vibrant salad companion.
Notes
- Select ripe, vibrant cherry tomatoes for maximum flavor and sweetness during roasting.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall taste and create a rich, smooth coating.
- Crush fresh garlic cloves instead of using pre-minced garlic for a more intense, authentic flavor profile.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to personal spice tolerance, allowing customization of heat level.
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup after roasting.
- Spread tomatoes cut-side up to help caramelize and concentrate natural sugars during cooking process.
- Check tomatoes around 18-20 minutes to prevent over-browning and maintain perfect tenderness.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavor variations.
- Store leftover roasted tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Serve as a versatile side dish, pasta topping, or blend into quick sauces for added depth and complexity.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg