Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Sweet cherry tomatoes roasted to perfection until they burst, releasing their juices and caramelizing with fragrant garlic and herbs. This simple, versatile dish is perfect for topping pasta, bruschetta, or serving as a vibrant side.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- a.Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a medium bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, sliced garlic, dried oregano, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Toss gently to ensure the tomatoes are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- 3
Spread the seasoned tomatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet
- a.Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the tomatoes to steam rather than roast. Use two pans if necessary.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened, their skins have blistered and burst, and they are beginning to caramelize around the edges. The garlic should be fragrant and lightly golden.
- 5
Remove the baking sheet from the oven
- a.Let the tomatoes cool for a few minutes. Scrape the pan to collect all the delicious juices and drizzle them over the tomatoes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a large enough baking sheet to avoid overcrowding, which steams the tomatoes instead of roasting them.
- 2For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar in the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- 3Don't discard the flavorful juices on the pan! Drizzle them over the tomatoes when serving or use them to dress pasta.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They are great cold in salads or sandwiches.
- 5Grape tomatoes also work perfectly in this recipe; they are slightly firmer and may take a few extra minutes to burst.
- 6Feel free to use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary sprigs instead of dried oregano. Add them with the tomatoes before roasting.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbaceous
Substitute dried oregano with 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile.
CheesyCheesy
After roasting, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan for a salty, savory addition.
Sweet & TangySweet & Tangy
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze over the tomatoes after they come out of the oven for a sweet and tangy finish.
SpicierSpicier
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a thinly sliced small chili for more significant heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases. Cooking tomatoes, as in this recipe, actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene.
Supports Heart Health
The use of extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to lower bad cholesterol levels.
Boosts Immunity
Tomatoes are a good source of Vitamin C, and garlic contains compounds like allicin, both of which are known to support a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of these Roasted Cherry Tomatoes (about 1 cup) contains approximately 120-140 calories, primarily from the olive oil and the natural sugars in the tomatoes.