Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic & Herbs

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic & Herbs

Today we are making Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic & Herbs! Step aside, pasta sauce and tomato soup recipes of the internet (yes, tomato soup is still one of our favorite ways to get in that Vitamin C)! If you’ve been looking for an easy way to use up those extra fresh tomatoes that you’ve spent growing this tomato season (or picking up at local farmers markets, or perhaps your local in-season produce at the grocery store), then look no further than this roasted tomato recipe!

It’s a mix of savory herbs, olive oil and balsamic vinegar all drizzled over tomatoes, roasted to perfection. You can eat them with bread, toss them in a vegan caprese salad, add them to grilled vegan marinated meats or tofu or more!

Imagine the scene: plump, ruby-red cherry tomatoes lovingly roasted to perfection, releasing a burst of tomato juice and intensifying to their inherent sweetness with each bite. Picture the symphony of flavors as these little gems mingle with the earthy warmth of garlic and the garden-fresh essence of assorted herbs. Every bite is a melody of textures and tastes, a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking.

But this simple recipe is not just about the end result; it’s about the journey in the kitchen. As you slice, season, and roast, you’ll find yourself immersed in a fragrant world where aromas dance in the air and anticipation grows with every passing minute. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the art of crafting these roasted tomatoes – a dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh, uncomplicated ingredients coming together in a symphony of flavors.

Why You’ll Love These Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic & Herbs

Explosion of Flavors: These roasted cherry tomatoes are a flavor-packed delight that combines the natural sweetness of the tomatoes with the robust, comforting essence of garlic and the aromatic touch of fresh herbs. The acidity of the vinegar also adds a pleasant brightness that balances out the richness of the olive oil and the savory depth of the garlic and herbs.

Versatility on Your Plate: These roasted tomatoes aren’t just a delicious side dish – they’re a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Serve them as a luscious topping over a vegan BBQ, toss them into salads to add a burst of flavor, or spoon them over toasted bread for a bruschetta. The tomato flavor really shines through once they’re roasted, with the mix of Italian seasoning herb flavors and a lot of garlic all complementing one another. Their adaptability ensures they can be enjoyed on any occasion!

Substitutions

Tomatoes: Use fresh, sweet and ripe cherry tomatoes. These are in full bloom come summer, and they’ll taste the freshest from a farmer’s market or if you grow them in your backyard! If these small tomatoes aren’t available, then you can also experiment with other types. For example, grape tomatoes or small vine-ripened tomatoes for a similar effect. The type of tomato won’t make as big of a difference if it’s fully red, ripened and a small size. If it’s a large tomato, it will contain a lot of liquid and I don’t recommend it for this recipe.

Garlic: Buy fresh garlic cloves to make paste out of. You can use a mortar and pestle to grind the garlic up, or use a fine-hole grater to grate it into a paste. If you’re in a pinch, then pre-made garlic paste can be a convenient alternative. However, the depth of flavor might differ slightly.

Olive Oil: The choice of olive oil greatly impacts the overall taste of the dish. Opt for a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil that has a balanced flavor profile. If you’re looking to switch things up, then consider using infused olive oils like garlic-infused or rosemary-infused varieties. This adds an extra layer of aroma!

Balsamic Vinegar: Adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can introduce a tangy-sweet note that beautifully complements the roasted tomatoes. Do not substitute, but you can omit if needed. This dish will still taste delicious! I used Kirkland brand in this recipe.

Choosing High-Quality Olive Oil

When selecting olive oil for this recipe, here are some tips to ensure you’re using a high-quality oil:

Look for Extra-Virgin: Opt for extra-virgin olive oil. This is the highest grade of olive oil, obtained from the first pressing of the olives. It boasts a superior taste and aroma compared to other varieties.

Check the Label: A reputable brand and transparent labeling are indicators of quality. Look for phrases like “cold-pressed” and “unfiltered,” as these indicate minimal processing and maximum flavor retention.

Origin Matters: Consider the origin of the olive oil. Oils from regions like Italy, Greece, and Spain are often celebrated for their exceptional quality and diverse flavor profiles. Single-origin oils can offer unique nuances that add depth to your dish.

Packaging: Olive oil is sensitive to light and heat, which can degrade its quality. Choose oils in dark glass bottles or metal cans, as these protect the oil from exposure to light.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic & Herbs Recipe Notes

• Since these quick roasted tomatoes rely on a few key ingredients, it’s important to use the best quality possible. Opt for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh garlic cloves. Freshly ground herbs would be ideal, but pre-ground, dried herbs are fine as well.
• Drizzle tomatoes and herbs with a high-quality olive oil. This not only enhances the roasting process but also balances the flavors and brings a luxurious mouthfeel to the dish.
• Top with fresh herbs, such as fresh basil leaves or fresh thyme leaves, when serving.

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Whipped Feta Pasta

If you make these Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic & Herbs, then leave a comment and star rating! Don’t forget to tag your photos @peanut_palate on Instagram. Enjoy!