Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Olive Oil and Sea Salt

This delightful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes by gently roasting them in the oven. The olive oil adds a rich, aromatic layer that complements the tomatoes' flavors perfectly. Sprinkled with sea salt, this dish is simple yet sophisticated, making it a great side or garnish for a variety of main courses. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy Mediterranean flavors and prefer minimal yet impactful ingredients. Preparing this dish takes just a few minutes, and the result is a vibrant, flavorful addition to your meal. The roasted tomatoes can be used in salads, pasta, or as a topping for toasted bread and bruschetta. Their versatility and rich taste make them a fantastic choice for enhancing any dining experience. This recipe appeals to anyone seeking a quick, easy, and healthy dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Cherry Tomatoes - 2 pints, on the vine if possible
Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
Sea Salt - 1 teaspoon

Preparation Time

Total Time: 35 minutes (5 minutes prep, 20-25 minutes cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Arrange the Tomatoes: Place the cherry tomatoes in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. Keep them on the vine for an attractive presentation, or separate them for more even cooking.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Generously pour the olive oil over the tomatoes, ensuring each one is lightly coated.
Season: Sprinkle sea salt over the tomatoes. Use your hands or a spoon to gently toss them, ensuring even distribution of the oil and salt.
Roast: Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should begin to wrinkle and some may burst slightly. This indicates that they are ready.
Remove from Oven: Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool slightly before serving.
Serve: Transfer the tomatoes to a serving dish or use them directly as a topping or side dish. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Tips

Substitutions: You can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes if desired.
Additional Flavors: Consider adding fresh basil or oregano for a herby flavor.
Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
Protein: 1g
Fats: 11g
Carbs: 6g

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Herb Infusion: Include dried Italian herbs to enhance flavor depth.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty bread for a delicious appetizer.
Serve alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
Mix into pasta or a leafy green salad.

Best Places

La Tomateria - Famous for its fresh tomato dishes using local produce. Location: 123 Flavor Street, Rome, Italy.
Olive's Mediterranean Bistro - Known for presenting authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Location: 456 Gourmet Ave., Athens, Greece.
Tomato & Co. - A charming spot that excels in tomato-focused recipes. Location: 789 Culinary Blvd., San Francisco, California, USA.
The Tomato Garden - Offers a serene setting for enjoying fresh veggies. Location: 101 Fresh Lane, Sydney, Australia.
Sun-Ripened Café - Celebrates sun-ripened produce in all its dishes. Location: 202 Harvest Road, Barcelona, Spain.
Taverna di Pomodoro - A rustic venue serving up classic tomato offerings. Location: 303 Marina Drive, Naples, Italy.
Saporito Bistrô - Combines local influences with traditional techniques. Location: 404 Tasty Terrace, Lisbon, Portugal.
Bountiful Bowl - Specializes in farm-to-table experiences. Location: 505 Abundant Way, Cape Town, South Africa.
Tomate Fresco - Delightful outdoor dining with fresh ingredients. Location: 606 Savor St., Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Heritage Garden - Encapsulates the essence of garden-to-table dining. Location: 707 Flavor Farm Road, Tokyo, Japan.