Can I use different types of tomatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and quick cooking time, you can use plum tomatoes (halved), grape tomatoes, or even regular tomatoes cut into chunks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly - larger pieces will need longer to roast.

My tomatoes are releasing a lot of juice during roasting. Is this normal?

Yes, this is completely normal and actually wonderful! Those juices are concentrated tomato flavor. You can either let them evaporate by roasting a bit longer, or save the delicious liquid to add to soups, sauces, or drizzle over the finished dish.

Is it necessary to add sugar to the tomatoes?

While not absolutely essential, that small amount of sugar helps enhance the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and promotes better caramelization. If your tomatoes are very ripe and sweet, or if you prefer a less sweet result, you can reduce or omit it.

Can I make these roasted tomatoes in advance for a dinner party?

Definitely! These tomatoes actually develop more flavor as they sit. Make them up to 2 days ahead and store in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature or gently rewarm before serving for the best flavor.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Description

A simple, flavorful, and versatile recipe for roasted cherry or plum tomatoes. Perfect as a side dish, a topping for pasta, or an addition to salads and sandwiches. This recipe enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a caramelized and savory delight!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Tomatoes
2 pounds plum tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
For Seasoning
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the tomatoes. If using plum tomatoes, slice them in half lengthwise. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, you can leave them whole to preserve their juiciness.
Prepare Tomatoes
Lay the tomatoes on an un-greased baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer. Drizzle them generously with olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic, sugar, and salt over the tomatoes. Gently toss everything together with clean hands or a spatula to make sure the tomatoes are evenly coated.
Roast Tomatoes
Roast the seasoned tomatoes in the preheated oven. For cherry tomatoes, roast them for 15-20 minutes, until they are tender, softened, and slightly caramelized. For plum tomatoes, roast them for 35-40 minutes, until they are softened and starting to blister at the edges.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil over the tomatoes before roasting.
Roasted tomatoes pair wonderfully with pasta, bruschetta, or as a side for grilled meats or fish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Adjust the sugar based on the acidity of your tomatoes; sweeter tomatoes may not need as much sugar.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 pound
Calories: 125
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg