Oven-Roasted Tomatoes with Garlic: A Flavor Explosion Recipe
Oven-roasted tomatoes with garlic are a culinary revelation. The slow roasting process transforms ordinary tomatoes into concentrated bursts of sweet and savory flavor. Infused with the pungent aroma and mellowed taste of garlic, these roasted tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Use them as a base for pasta sauces, a topping for bruschetta, an addition to salads, or simply enjoy them as a delicious side dish. This recipe is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, but the results are truly extraordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Intense Flavor:** Roasting intensifies the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and concentrates their flavor, creating a depth that’s unmatched.
* **Simple Ingredients:** This recipe relies on just a few high-quality ingredients: tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
* **Easy to Make:** The process is straightforward – simply toss the ingredients together and roast them in the oven.
* **Versatile:** Oven-roasted tomatoes with garlic can be used in a variety of dishes, adding a burst of flavor to everything they touch.
* **Makes a great condiment:** Wonderful on toast, sandwiches, or on its own.
* **Freezes well:** Make a big batch and freeze for later use. A taste of summer all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Tomatoes:** The star of the show! Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. Roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or heirloom tomatoes all work well. Consider using a mix for a diverse flavor profile. For this recipe, approximately 2 pounds of tomatoes are recommended.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that signature aroma and taste. Don’t skimp on the garlic! About 6-8 cloves, depending on size, are ideal.
* **Olive Oil:** Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It helps to roast the tomatoes and carries the garlic flavor beautifully. Approximately ¼ cup of olive oil is needed.
* **Salt:** Salt enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes and balances the acidity. Use sea salt or kosher salt. Start with ¾ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
* **Black Pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
* **Optional Herbs:** Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary can add another layer of flavor. Add them during the last 15 minutes of roasting or sprinkle them on after the tomatoes are cooked. About 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs are recommended.
* **Optional Balsamic Vinegar:** A drizzle of balsamic vinegar after roasting adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. About 1-2 teaspoons is recommended, if desired.
* **Optional Red Pepper Flakes:** For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomatoes before roasting. A small pinch is typically sufficient.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Baking Sheet:** A large baking sheet is necessary to spread the tomatoes in a single layer.
* **Parchment Paper (Optional):** Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easier.
* **Knife:** A sharp knife is needed for slicing the tomatoes and mincing the garlic.
* **Cutting Board:** A sturdy cutting board is essential for prepping the ingredients.
* **Mixing Bowl (Optional):** A mixing bowl can be helpful for tossing the tomatoes with the olive oil, garlic, and seasonings.
* **Garlic Press (Optional):** A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic, or you can finely chop it with a knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create perfect oven-roasted tomatoes with garlic:
**Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes**
* Wash the tomatoes thoroughly.
* Depending on the type of tomato, prepare them accordingly:
* **Roma Tomatoes:** Cut them in half lengthwise.
* **Cherry Tomatoes or Grape Tomatoes:** Leave them whole, or cut larger ones in half.
* **Heirloom Tomatoes:** Cut them into 1-inch chunks.
* Place the prepared tomatoes in a mixing bowl (optional) or directly onto the baking sheet.
**Step 2: Prepare the Garlic**
* Peel the garlic cloves.
* Mince the garlic finely using a knife or a garlic press.
* Add the minced garlic to the tomatoes.
**Step 3: Season the Tomatoes**
* Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and garlic.
* Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
* If using, add red pepper flakes and your choice of fresh herbs.
* Toss everything together gently to ensure the tomatoes are evenly coated.
**Step 4: Roast the Tomatoes**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Spread the tomatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, cut-side up if using halved tomatoes.
* Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened, slightly shriveled, and caramelized around the edges. The exact roasting time will depend on the size and type of tomatoes. Smaller tomatoes will cook faster than larger ones.
**Step 5: Cool and Serve**
* Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tomatoes cool slightly.
* If using, drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
* Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Roasted Tomatoes
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the quality of your tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic, the better the final result will be.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Spreading the tomatoes in a single layer ensures that they roast properly and don’t steam. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
* **Adjust Roasting Time:** The roasting time will vary depending on the type and size of the tomatoes. Keep an eye on them and adjust the time accordingly. You want them to be softened and slightly caramelized, but not burnt.
* **Add Herbs Strategically:** If using fresh herbs, add them during the last 15 minutes of roasting to prevent them from burning. You can also sprinkle them on after the tomatoes are cooked.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Try different combinations of herbs, spices, and seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile.
* **Stir occasionally:** After the initial 15 minutes, gently stir the tomatoes to ensure even roasting and prevent sticking.
* **Broil for Extra Caramelization:** For even deeper flavor, broil the tomatoes for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
* **Don’t discard the juices:** The juices released during roasting are packed with flavor. Drizzle them over the tomatoes before serving or use them in sauces and soups.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-roasted tomatoes with garlic are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes:
* **Pasta Sauce:** Blend or chop the roasted tomatoes and use them as a base for a flavorful pasta sauce. Add some fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple yet delicious meal.
* **Bruschetta Topping:** Spoon the roasted tomatoes onto toasted bread slices and top with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delicious appetizer.
* **Pizza Topping:** Use the roasted tomatoes as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza. They add a burst of flavor and moisture to the pizza.
* **Salad Addition:** Add the roasted tomatoes to your favorite salad for a touch of sweetness and savory flavor. They pair well with leafy greens, cheese, and grilled chicken or fish.
* **Side Dish:** Serve the roasted tomatoes as a simple and flavorful side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or scrambled eggs.
* **Sandwich Filling:** Layer roasted tomatoes into sandwiches and wraps for a flavour boost.
* **Soup Ingredient:** Add roasted tomatoes to soups and stews for an extra layer of depth and richness.
* **As a Condiment:** Use them as you would a relish or chutney. Wonderful alongside grilled meats or served with cheese and crackers.
Variations and Add-ins
* **Spicy Roasted Tomatoes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomatoes before roasting for a spicy kick.
* **Sweet Roasted Tomatoes:** Drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup over the tomatoes before roasting for a touch of sweetness.
* **Roasted Tomatoes with Onions:** Add sliced onions to the baking sheet along with the tomatoes for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
* **Roasted Tomatoes with Peppers:** Add chopped bell peppers or chili peppers to the baking sheet for added flavor and texture.
* **Mediterranean Roasted Tomatoes:** Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and oregano to the tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
* **Herbed Roasted Tomatoes:** Experiment with different combinations of fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, or marjoram.
* **Balsamic Glazed Roasted Tomatoes:** After roasting, drizzle the tomatoes with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
* **Sun-Dried Tomato Flavor:** For an even more intense tomato flavor, add a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the baking sheet before roasting.
Storage Information
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover roasted tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Freeze:** Freeze roasted tomatoes for longer storage. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen tomatoes to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
* **Oil-Packed:** Roasted tomatoes can be preserved in olive oil for a longer shelf life (up to 2 weeks refrigerated). Ensure the tomatoes are fully submerged in the oil. However, be mindful of potential botulism risks with oil-packed products and follow proper canning guidelines if planning long-term storage at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
* Calories: 80-120
* Fat: 6-10g
* Saturated Fat: 1-2g
* Cholesterol: 0mg
* Sodium: 100-200mg
* Carbohydrates: 6-10g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 4-6g
* Protein: 1-2g
Conclusion
Oven-roasted tomatoes with garlic are a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that can be used in countless ways. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can transform ordinary tomatoes into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you use them in pasta sauces, as a topping for bruschetta, or simply as a side dish, these roasted tomatoes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab some ripe tomatoes, fresh garlic, and olive oil, and get ready to experience the magic of oven-roasted tomatoes with garlic!