Parmesan Roasted Tomatoes: A Simple & Flavorful Side Dish

Parmesan roasted tomatoes are a ridiculously easy and incredibly delicious side dish that elevates any meal. They’re bursting with flavor, incredibly versatile, and require minimal effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, enhanced by the savory depth of Parmesan cheese, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs. Get ready to transform ordinary tomatoes into something extraordinary!

Why You’ll Love These Parmesan Roasted Tomatoes

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe relies on a handful of readily available ingredients.
• Easy to Make: Roasting tomatoes is incredibly straightforward. No complicated techniques are required.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet tomatoes, salty Parmesan, and aromatic herbs is simply irresistible.
• Versatile: These roasted tomatoes can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a topping for pasta, pizza, or bruschetta.
• Healthy: Tomatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this a relatively healthy indulgence.
• Quick: Roasting takes only about 20-25 minutes, making this a fast and convenient option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Tomatoes: Use ripe but firm tomatoes. Roma tomatoes, grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or even slicing tomatoes work well. The size of the tomato will influence cooking time.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using pre-grated Parmesan, which often contains cellulose and may not melt as well.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent and savory note.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides richness and helps the tomatoes roast evenly.
• Italian Herbs: A blend of dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme) adds depth and complexity. Fresh herbs can also be used; just double the amount.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat), balsamic glaze (for drizzling after roasting).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly Parmesan roasted tomatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash and dry the tomatoes thoroughly. Depending on the type of tomato you are using, prepare them accordingly:

• Roma Tomatoes: Cut them in half lengthwise.
• Grape or Cherry Tomatoes: Leave them whole, or cut them in half if they are particularly large. Halving them will allow more surface area to roast and caramelize.
• Slicing Tomatoes: Cut them into thick slices, about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 2: Arrange the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the prepared tomatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer, cut-side up (if applicable). Ensure they are not overcrowded, as this will prevent them from roasting properly.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Dress the Tomatoes

Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each tomato. Be generous with the Parmesan, as it will create a delicious, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Roast the Tomatoes

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the Parmesan cheese is melted, golden brown, and slightly crispy. The exact roasting time will depend on the size and type of tomatoes you are using. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tomatoes cool slightly before serving. You can drizzle them with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and tang. Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for your favorite dishes.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Roasted Tomatoes

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and good-quality olive oil.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the tomatoes to steam rather than roast, resulting in a soggy texture. Arrange them in a single layer with enough space between each tomato.
• Adjust Roasting Time as Needed: The roasting time will vary depending on the size and type of tomatoes you are using. Keep a close eye on them and adjust the roasting time as needed to prevent burning.
• Add a Touch of Heat: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you prefer fresh herbs, use them instead of dried herbs. Just double the amount. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, use 2 teaspoons of fresh herbs.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan cheese is the classic choice, you can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the baking sheet, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time accordingly.
• Let Them Cool Slightly: Allowing the tomatoes to cool slightly before serving will allow the flavors to meld together and prevent them from being too hot to handle.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Store leftover roasted tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Parmesan roasted tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Side Dish: Serve them as a simple and flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
• Appetizer: Serve them on crostini or crackers as a delicious appetizer.
• Pasta Topping: Toss them with your favorite pasta for a quick and easy meal.
• Pizza Topping: Use them as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza.
• Bruschetta Topping: Top toasted bread with the roasted tomatoes for a simple and elegant bruschetta.
• Salad Addition: Add them to your favorite salad for a burst of flavor.
• Sandwich Filling: Use them as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Omelet Filling: Add them to omelets or frittatas for a savory and delicious breakfast.
• Soup Garnish: Garnish tomato soup or other soups with the roasted tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Variations and Add-ins

This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations and add-ins to try:

• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted tomatoes after they come out of the oven for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the roasted tomatoes before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto under the tomatoes before roasting for a more intense flavor.
• Goat Cheese: Crumble goat cheese over the roasted tomatoes before serving for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese to the baking sheet during the last few minutes of roasting for a cheesy and gooey treat.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the Parmesan mixture for an intense tomato flavor.
• Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the roasted tomatoes before serving for a nutty crunch.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the Parmesan mixture for a bright and citrusy flavor.
• Chili Flakes: Add chili flakes to the parmesan mix to give some spicy flavor.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs, such as fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley.
• Shallots: Add sliced shallots to the baking sheet along with the tomatoes for a sweet and savory flavor.
• Different Types of Tomatoes: Mix different types of tomatoes for a variety of flavors and textures.

Nutritional Information (Estimated)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 80-120
• Fat: 6-10g
• Saturated Fat: 3-5g
• Cholesterol: 10-20mg
• Sodium: 100-200mg
• Carbohydrates: 4-6g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 3-4g
• Protein: 3-5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen tomatoes?

A: While fresh tomatoes are preferred, you can use frozen tomatoes in a pinch. Thaw them completely before roasting and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Keep in mind that frozen tomatoes may be a bit softer than fresh tomatoes.

Q: Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

A: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly.

Q: How long will the roasted tomatoes last?

A: Leftover roasted tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze roasted tomatoes?

A: Freezing roasted tomatoes is not recommended, as they may become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze them if you plan to use them in sauces or soups.

Q: Can I roast the tomatoes at a higher temperature?

A: Roasting the tomatoes at a higher temperature can result in a quicker roasting time, but it can also increase the risk of burning. It’s best to stick to the recommended temperature of 400°F (200°C).

Q: Can I add other spices to the Parmesan mixture?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.

Q: What if I don’t have Italian herbs?

A: If you don’t have Italian herbs, you can use a combination of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute. You can find vegan Parmesan cheese at most health food stores or online.

Q: Can I grill the tomatoes instead of roasting them?

A: Yes, you can grill the tomatoes instead of roasting them. Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill the tomatoes for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are tender and the Parmesan cheese is melted.

Enjoy!

Parmesan roasted tomatoes are a delightful and easy way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. Whether you serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or topping, they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to transform ordinary tomatoes into something truly special!