Roasted Tomatoes Recipe: Easy, Flavorful & Oven-Baked

Bursting with Flavor: The Magic of Roasted Tomatoes

Have you ever tasted a tomato that was so intensely flavorful, it made your eyes widen? That’s the magic of roasting! This roasted tomato recipe is incredibly simple, yet delivers a depth of flavor that will impress anyone. It’s the perfect way to elevate simple meals or create stunning appetizers. Get ready to experience the sweetest, most savory tomatoes of your life!

Why You’ll Love It

• The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness and umami flavor of the tomatoes.
• This recipe requires minimal effort, with most of the work done by the oven.
• Roasted tomatoes are incredibly versatile – use them in pasta, salads, on toast, or as a side dish.
• They are a wonderful way to use up an abundance of fresh tomatoes, especially during the summer months.
• This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t just any roasted tomato recipe. The secret is a combination of high heat and just enough olive oil to create a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. We also use a touch of balsamic vinegar at the end, which adds a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully. The addition of garlic cloves, roasted whole along with the tomatoes, infuses them with a savory flavor that is simply irresistible. These aren’t your average roasted tomatoes; they’re a flavor explosion in every bite!

Ingredient List

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved or quartered tomatoes and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure the tomatoes are well coated.
3. Spread the tomatoes and garlic in a single layer on a baking sheet. You may need to use 2 baking sheets if needed to ensure they aren’t overcrowded.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized around the edges.
5. Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Gently toss to coat.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your roasted tomatoes to the next level? Here are a few ideas to customize them:

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle with fresh basil, parsley, or thyme after roasting.
• Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting for a touch of heat.
• Feta cheese: Crumble some feta over the tomatoes after roasting for a salty, tangy contrast.
• Parmesan cheese: Add some freshly grated parmesan cheese at the end

Expert Tips

• Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, but avoid overripe ones that might become mushy.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will steam the tomatoes instead of roasting them. Use two baking sheets if needed.
• Keep an eye on the tomatoes while they’re roasting; the cooking time can vary depending on the size and type of tomato.
• Don’t skip the balsamic vinegar at the end, it adds an amazing depth of flavor.
• For an even deeper flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves with their skins on, then peel them before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use dried herbs other than oregano?
  

  Yes, you can experiment with other dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. A mixture of these will also work well.

• Can I roast these tomatoes ahead of time?
  

  Absolutely! Roasted tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Gently reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

• Can I use different types of tomatoes?
  

  Yes, cherry tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, or even a mix of different varieties will all work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly based on the size.

• Can I freeze roasted tomatoes?
  

  Yes, roasted tomatoes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool them completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bags. Thaw before using.

• Can i skip the balsamic vinegar?
  

  Yes, but we highly recommend using balsamic vinegar if you have it. It adds a delicious layer of flavor. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or lemon juice instead, although the flavour will be slightly different.

Variations and Customization Options

This roasted tomato recipe is a blank canvas! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Spicy Roasted Tomatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili to the tomatoes before roasting.
• Herbaceous Roasted Tomatoes: Include fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil in addition to the oregano.
• Garlic Lovers Roasted Tomatoes: Double or triple the garlic cloves for an extra garlicky flavour.
• Mediterranean Style Roasted Tomatoes: Add some Kalamata olives and a pinch of sumac before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, toss them with pasta or grains, spread them on crusty bread for bruschetta, or add them to salads for a burst of flavor. You can even use them as a topping for pizza or tacos. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Roasting tomatoes is a game-changer, transforming ordinary tomatoes into a flavor-packed delight. This simple recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out, share your culinary creations, and subscribe to our newsletter for more amazing recipes! We’d love to see your take on it, so please share your photos!