Imagine the sunniest day, the kind where the warmth hugs you, and you’re in a garden bursting with cherry tomatoes – each one a tiny orb of juicy promise. There’s something about roasting them with garlic that feels like bottling up a slice of summer. Add some dreamy burrata, and it’s like a culinary love letter, an ode to simple pleasures that make you sigh with delight.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Arrange halved cherry tomatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the oil mixture over the tomatoes and gently toss them to ensure even coating.
- Bake the tomatoes for about 25 minutes until they become caramelized.
- Once done, sprinkle freshly minced herbs like parsley, basil, or chives on top and serve.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh minced herbs (such as parsley, basil, or chives)
- Cooking spray
Nutritional Values
Calories: 328kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 28g | Sodium: 48mg | Potassium: 988mg | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 2220IU | Vitamin C: 103.2mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 3.6mg
FAQ
- How should I prepare cherry tomatoes for roasting?
- You can choose between roasting cherry tomatoes whole or halved. Halving them often results in a more appealing appearance as they can burst open if left whole. However, if you plan to puree them for sauces or soups, the presentation is less important, so leaving them whole is fine.
- What can I do with roasted cherry tomatoes?
- Roasted cherry tomatoes are versatile and can be used as a side dish or incorporated into various recipes such as pizzas, salads, pastas, soups, and marinara sauces.
- What distinguishes grape tomatoes from cherry tomatoes?
- Grape tomatoes differ from cherry tomatoes primarily in shape and sweetness. They are less sweet and have a different shape, but they can be used interchangeably in recipes like this one with great results.
- Are cherry tomatoes nutritious?
- Yes, cherry tomatoes are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. They also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that offers numerous health benefits, including a lowered risk of cancer and heart disease.
- How do I roast cherry tomatoes?
- To roast cherry tomatoes, start by coating them in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then bake at a high temperature until caramelized. This process intensifies their flavors, making them a delicious addition to many dishes.
Tips
- Choose a Variety of Colors: If available, select cherry tomatoes in different colors for a visually appealing dish, especially if you’re serving them at a dinner party.
- Cut Tomatoes in Half: To prevent them from bursting in the oven and to enhance their caramelization, consider slicing the tomatoes in half before roasting, unless you’re planning to puree them for sauces or soups.
- Experiment with Different Herbs: While the recipe suggests parsley, basil, or chives, feel free to try other herbs that you enjoy, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Use as a Versatile Ingredient: These roasted cherry tomatoes can be enjoyed as a side dish or incorporated into various dishes like pizzas, salads, pastas, and sauces, providing a burst of flavor and color.
Equipment
- Sheet Pan: A heavy-duty sheet pan that’s durable and can withstand high heat for roasting.
- Cooking Spray: Non-stick cooking spray if you don’t already have some at home.
- Herb Mince Tool: A tool for mincing fresh herbs efficiently, if you do not have one.
- Garlic Press or Mince Tool: A garlic press makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
