# Roasted Tomatoes: An Easy and Tasty Side Dish
Roasted tomatoes serve as a straightforward yet tasty side dish that can enhance any dining experience. With only a few ingredients, such as fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, and a dash of balsamic vinegar, this dish is simple to create and delicious. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, these oven-roasted tomatoes are ideal alongside grilled chicken breast or a succulent steak dinner.
## Holly’s Recipe Highlights: Roasted Tomatoes
– **Flavor**: Sweet, juicy, and slightly caramelized tomatoes blended with savory garlic, aromatic basil, and a touch of tangy balsamic vinegar.
– **Why Make**: Roasting emphasizes the tomatoes’ inherent sweetness and flavor, resulting in a rich side dish with little effort.
– **Serving Suggestions**: Serve these roasted tomatoes with grilled chicken breasts, mix them into egg noodles, or enjoy them on crusty no-knead bread.
**Total Time**: 15 Minutes
**Servings**: 6
**Cooking Method**: Oven Roasted
## Ingredient Notes
– **Tomatoes**: Choose the ripest tomatoes for optimal flavor. Roma tomatoes are heartier and may need a longer roasting duration, while cherry, grape, and Campari tomatoes roast swiftly and become delightfully juicy.
– **Balsamic Vinegar**: Contributes subtle tang and amplifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness. For a deeper finish, drizzle with balsamic glaze once roasted.
– **Garlic**: Chopped garlic delivers robust flavor. For a gentler taste, consider garlic powder or roasting whole smashed cloves.
– **Basil**: Fresh basil brings brightness; dried basil serves as a suitable alternative. Other herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning may also be utilized.
– **Parmesan Cheese (optional)**: A dash of Parmesan adds a savory touch but can be omitted if preferred.
## How to Make Roasted Tomatoes
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. Rinse and slice the tomatoes in half (or quarters for larger varieties).
3. Combine the tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, basil, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange in a baking pan and roast for 10 to 20 minutes, or until your desired level of doneness is achieved.
### Tips for Perfect Roasted Tomatoes
– **Use Ripe Tomatoes**: They yield the sweetest taste.
– **Cut Evenly**: Ensure larger tomatoes are quartered to cook uniformly with smaller ones.
– **Roast in a Single Layer**: This avoids steaming and promotes proper roasting.
– **Avoid Over-Tossing**: Excessive tossing after roasting can lead to overly soft tomatoes.
– **Add Basil Wisely**: Fresh basil can be added after roasting for an enhanced flavor.
## Save Every Spoonful
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as necessary.
### Nutrition Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 56
– **Carbohydrates**: 6g
– **Protein**: 1g
– **Fat**: 3g
– **Cholesterol**: 1mg
– **Sodium**: 34mg
– **Potassium**: 358mg
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sugar**: 4g
– **Vitamin A**: 1270 IU
– **Vitamin C**: 20.9mg
– **Calcium**: 35mg
– **Iron**: 0.4mg
Roasted tomatoes are not just a delicious enhancement to your meal but also a nutritious one, brimming with vitamins and taste. Relish this easy recipe as a versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses.